Taxi Driver Job Description

Taxi drivers normally work in urban areas, where they transport people to and from the places they need to go. They must be intimately familiar with the streets and routes in the city and surrounding area that they work in.

Taxi drivers are responsible for the safety of their passengers, and need to have a lot of experience driving in hazardous weather conditions like snow and heavy rain.

Good taxi drivers are extremely familiar with the area that they serve, and are able to transport their passengers to their destination as quickly as possible, even during heavy traffic. Choosing the most efficient routes and getting their passengers to their destination quickly allows them to pick up more passengers and make more money.

Some taxi drivers own their own cabs, and sign a contract with a taxi company that lets them use their facilities and dispatchers. These drivers are able to keep all of their fares, but also have to pay all of the expenses needed to keep their cab operational.

Other taxi drivers use cabs that are owned by the employer they work for. These cab drivers don't have as many costs they have to pay out of pocket, but they have to share their fares with the company they work for.

This can be a stressful occupation at times, particularly when driving in heavy traffic or transporting a violent or agitated passenger.

Taxi drivers often help their passengers load their luggage into their car. This can result in minor injuries like muscle strains. Since driver spend so much time driving, they are also at higher risk for being in a car accident. Paying close attention to the road and obeying traffic laws can help reduce the risk of accident.

The majority of taxi drivers work full time, but there are many part time opportunities available as well. The working schedules tend to be very flexible, but working on nights and weekends is often required.

Additional responsibilities for taxi driver jobs include:

  • Performing routine maintenance on their vehicle, such as adjusting tire pressure and adding oil.
  • Providing passengers with information about local attractions or other points of interest.
  • Using meters and fee schedules to determine fares.
  • Picking up passengers and taking them where they want to go.

How to Become a Taxi Driver

Many taxi drivers have a high school diploma, but there are rarely any educational requirements for getting a job.

In some cities, getting a job as a taxi driver can be very competitive. Before applying, candidates should familiarize themselves with the local area as well as local traffic laws.

Most employers provide on the job training to taxi drivers. Training usually lasts two weeks or less, and covers traffic laws and safety.

Taxi drivers must have a valid driver's license. In some states, they also need to earn a specialized taxi license. These licenses are available from the Department of Motor Vehicles, and require passing an exam.

Employment Outlook

There are currently taxi drivers in the United States, with new taxi driver job openings created each year.


Taxi Driver Salaries

Salaries by State

Hover over your state to get an idea of what Taxi Drivers make in your area.

How to use this salary data.

Job seekers can use it while negotiating a salary.


Overall Salaries

Taxi Driver salaries can vary depending on your experience, the location, company, industry, and benefits provided. Nationwide, most taxi drivers make between per year, or per hour.

Salary and statistical data provided by the BLS.