Taxi driver career routes There are various routes to becoming an employed taxi driver, which often suit different ambitions and circumstances. Whether you are looking to become a taxi driver for the first time, or want to change your existing employment status, this guide discusses the various employment options for people pursuing a career as a driver. Work for a taxi firm As an employee, you are entitled to employment rights such as a minimum wage, sick pay and holidays. H

As a taxi driver, you are legally responsible to ensure that any children are safely and securely seated. This article provides an overview of your responsibilities when driving within the EU. It is recommended you visit your local government website for full details. Austria The use of seat belts and child seats is compulsory. However, seat belts are not compulsory for children sitting in the back of taxis. Belgium The use of seat belts and child seats is compulsory. However

Planning for any drive is important, but planning for long-distance driving during the winter requires particular care. The holiday season increases the number of cars on the roads, at a time when the days are shorter and the weather is potentially treacherous. For both professional and private drivers, taking extra steps to be safe is important and can potentially be life-saving. Plan ahead Knowing your route ahead of your journey and checking travel information is all the m

Many taxi drivers across the UK are self-employed, which means that they will be completing their self-assessment tax returns due at the end of January. Failure to comply can lead to heavy fines and prosecution, so it is essential to keep on top of the paperwork and make sure everything is in order. However, unlike larger firms, many self-employed drivers will not opt for the assistance of an accountant due to the costs involved. Consequently, it is not uncommon to be disorga

Goal setting and strategic planning Whether you are starting a new taxi business, or currently operate an existing firm, it is essential that you set goals and devise a strategy to help you achieve your goals. It is highly likely that you have a reason for running a taxi business, whether to provide an income, a job that provides a good work-life balance, or an opportunity for autonomy. But without a purpose, your business will inevitably fail. Determining goals and a strateg

Planning an taxi business exit strategy The time comes for every business when an owner must exist their firm. For taxi firms and independent drivers, an exit typically means closing or selling the business. For example, a sole trader driver could sell their car, brand and contact list, whilst the owner of a firm could sell their shares. Whether you intend to sell your business, or just stop working and let the business dissolve, it’s important to plan so you exit your busine

There are many reasons why drivers do not like to accept pets as passengers. Common complaints include safety, noise, mess and smell. But recalling some Friday night stories, it’s apparent that pets can often be better behaved than human customers! With people often wanting to transport their pets, and with plenty of opportunity to partner with veterinary practices to increase your income, perhaps accepting pets it’s worth considering. In case you do, we’ve come up with some

With almost a third of the world’s population on social media, it is surprising that many taxi firms and drivers still dismiss social media as an effective marketing tool. Whether you want to build your reputation to encourage more people to hail your cars, or you want to be the first choice for bookings, there are steps you can take to use social media to improve your exposure. Social Media is useful to ensure you are front-of-mind. You can also use it to build a following o

Airport transfers are common for most taxi firms, but they can also be problematic if the process is mishandled. Customers get nervous about missing flights and drivers can waste hours waiting for delayed flights to arrive. With stories of drivers travelling to airports only to find that their booking has jumped into another cab, it’s important that the airport transfer process is managed properly to help you save time and money, and to give your customers peace of mind. Book

It goes without saying that taxi firms should print business cards. However, it may be surprising to hear that many firms fail to distribute them. Whilst it may seem obvious, unless you hand out your business cards people won’t see them. Simply keeping them in your car for those who ask for them is limiting your target market to people who already know you exist. We’ve therefore created a list of places you could leave your cards for increased exposure. Visibly in your car Yo