A driver’s license Minimum Age – In most cities taxi drivers must be at least 21, though in some they can be as young as 18. Good Health – Drivers often have to pass a health exam to assure they have no conditions that would endanger passengers. No Convictions – Drivers must typically have no felony convictions and not be serving parole. No Tickets – Drivers must typically have no unpaid tickets in order to get certified.
New York – Taxi drivers must take a 6 hour defensive driving course and complete either a 24 or 80 hour taxi school course. [4] X Research source The longer course might well be worth it, as only 53% of test takers pass the license test. [5] X Research source Chicago – You must attend a 3 week course at the Public Chauffeur Training Institute. [6] X Research source San Francisco – You must attend an accredited taxi school and obtain a Taxi Training Certificate and Sensitivity Training Certificate. Paris – You must have obtained a level 1 first aid certificate, or Diplôme PSC1 (prévention et secours civiques de niveau 1). [7] X Research source
Routes Landmarks Boundaries Cab requirements Business practices Non-discrimination Customer service
A valid driver’s license A social security card Immigrant documentation if applicable Driving record A criminal background check (for which you may need to supply fingerprints) A medical examination Drug test
The cab – Cars frequently used as cabs include Ford Crown Victorias, Dodge Caravans or Nissan Quests, Ford Escape Hybrids, and Toyota Priuses. [14] X Research source They cost anywhere from about $3,000 used to over $30,000 new. [15] X Research source Insurance – The requirements for taxi insurance are much higher than for private use of your car – between $5,000-$10,000 a year. [16] X Research source Taxi meter – Around $180 used. A top light - Cost from $150 for a basic roof topper up to $1300 for a video topper. Car markings – You will need to put your business name and phone number on the side of your taxi. Decals start at $10-$25 per square foot. [17] X Research source
Percentage – The company pays all costs, including gas, and you take home about 30% of each fare. In Boston, drivers average about $200 gross per day, meaning they would take home only $60. In New York the average is closer to $250 for a take of $75 per day. Leasing – The driver leases the cab and pays for gas, but takes home all fares. Renting a cab costs around $100 per day, with fuel costs of about $20, meaning take home pay of around $80 to $130 per day.
A license Age 21 or older A car model year 2000 or newer (2005 in some cities) Background check
Follow all traffic laws. Do not speed. Take care when changing lanes. Do not weave through traffic. Do not drive when tired or otherwise impaired. Immediately report any accidents.
Radio the dispatcher whenever picking up a client. Keep your windows rolled up and doors locked between fares. Be wary of passengers that give vague instructions. Do not let single passengers sit directly behind you. Use an excuse – company policy or car balance – and politely ask them to move. Do not drive into back alleys. Do not resist robberies. Instead, memorize the suspect’s description and contact the police as soon as possible.
Airports in the mid morning Business districts during lunch Suburban rail or subway stops during rush hour Out of the way restaurants during the evening Clubs late at night
Keep your car clean. Always call passengers 30 minutes prior to pick-up if they have pre-booked. This will keep them from worrying about whether you will show up. Have snacks on hand for airport passengers. A bottle of water and a granola bar will be greatly appreciated by hungry passengers. Do not talk on the phone while driving passengers. It makes you a less safe driver, and it leaves you unavailable to answer questions. Stay calm. Do not curse at other drivers or traffic. Be courteous and thankful. “Good morning,” “good afternoon,” or “good evening” are a must when your passenger enters the car. Always thank your passenger when he or she leaves.
