How to Take a Taxi in London

When you need efficient and budget-friendly transportation in London, hailing a black or yellow taxi is one of your best choices. Here's how to get around London with ease.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Cash
• A roadmap
• Address of your destination

1. Check the taxi lane on the street for cabs that display a 'For Hire' sign on the roof. These light up in yellow if the cab is vacant and available.

2. If there isn't a cab available nearby, you'll need to walk over to a cab rank. These are listed on most London road maps and tourist guides.

3. Make sure the cab is licensed by locating the certificate of licensure located near the cab driver. If you're unsure, ask the cab driver for proof of a license.

4. Get seated inside and let the cab driver know where you want to go. The meter will start immediately as the cab gets instructions from the dispatcher.

5. When you arrive at your destination, thank the cab driver and leave a tip of at least 10% of the total fare.

Tips & Warnings

• Radio Taxis can be called by dialing 020 7272 0272
• Dial-a-Cab services can be called at 020 7253 5000
• A black cab is obligated to take you anywhere within a six mile radius of London's Metropolitan area
• Ladycabs are available for women only by calling 020 7272 3300
• You can ride a minicab for cheaper fares
• Cabs can also be reserved for sightseeing tours and weddings
• Cab drivers do have the right to refuse a fare if they think you are not fit for riding in the cab
• Black cabs can be expensive for long distances, so you may consider sharing travel costs by riding in a group
• Be cautious about pickpockets as you wait on the London streets for a cab
• Don't smoke during the cab ride; London's no smoking policy is in effect for almost all public transportation

Resources

• London Taxi Official site

[boscorelli]

on 7/14/2009 The best way to be safe in a taxi is to make sure you know 1) how much the fare will be and 2) where you are going. I use TaxiFareFinder.com BTW, no one tips in London. we just round up to the next whole.