Whether you’re navigating a new city or commuting in your hometown, knowing how to use taxis like a local can help you save money, avoid scams, and make your ride smoother. While apps and rideshares have grown in popularity, taxis remain a reliable option—especially when you know the tricks of the trade.
Here are 10 practical tips to help you ride smarter.
- Always Choose Licensed Taxis
Legitimate taxis will display a medallion number, company logo, and driver identification. Avoid accepting rides from people who approach you in public places, especially airports or tourist hubs. You can verify license requirements and regulations through your city’s transportation department, such as the New York City Taxi & Limousine Commission.
- Use a Taxi-Hailing App When Possible
Apps like Curb and Flywheel allow you to book a taxi with upfront pricing, similar to rideshare apps. You’ll get a clear estimate, can track your ride, and often pay digitally—making the entire experience more transparent.
- Know the Fare Structure Before You Ride
Ask if the fare will be metered or flat rate. In many cities, like Los Angeles or Chicago, metered rates apply, but flat rates are common from airports to downtown areas. Flat-rate rides can often be cheaper during high-traffic times.
- Avoid Peak Travel Hours When You Can
Rush hour traffic, late-night demand, and event-related congestion can cause both meter time and fares to climb. If possible, plan your taxi rides outside of 7–9 a.m. and 4–7 p.m. to reduce both waiting and cost.
- Use Taxi Fare Estimators to Plan Ahead
Before your ride, check tools like TaxiFareFinder or Uber’s Fare Estimate Tool to see what your route should cost. This helps you identify inflated pricing or overcharges in real time.
- Pay Digitally to Track Expenses and Avoid Overcharging
Whenever available, use digital payments like Apple Pay or Google Pay to avoid disputes over cash handling. If you’re using rideshare services, you can also earn cashback with a Lyft gift card or get rewards with an Uber gift card by purchasing through Fluz. These digital gift cards are usable directly in the app and let you save on every ride.
- Ask for a Receipt Every Time
Always ask for a receipt—even for short trips. It helps in case you need to report a lost item or dispute the fare. Most taxi meters are equipped with printers or drivers can text/email a receipt using a digital system.
- Watch the Route if You’re Unfamiliar
Use Google Maps or Waze during your trip to monitor the route. If you notice unnecessary detours, you can politely ask the driver about the route or request to take a more direct path.
- Tip Appropriately
A typical taxi tip in the U.S. ranges from 15–20%. Tipping can be done with cash or through digital payment apps. Some cities or apps even have preset tipping options when you pay through their interface.
- Know Your Rights as a Passenger
In most U.S. cities, taxi passengers have rights that protect them from fare manipulation, discrimination, and unsafe driving. Check local regulations to understand your rights.
Conclusion
Taxis remain a trusted and accessible transportation option when you know how to navigate them. From checking the route to earning cashback with a Lyft gift card or getting rewards with an Uber gift card, these insider tips will help you ride like a local—smarter, safer, and more cost-effectively.
