How to Become a Taxi Driver in Minneapolis
Getting a license to drive a taxi in Minneapolis used to be difficult. Some taxi drivers, according to an article in the Star tribune, paid $25,000 just to get the license from another taxi driver, because the number allowed were limited. Now, the city has increased the number of licenses it grants. Though the taxi union challenged this move, a judge threw the appeal out. So, getting a license has become much simpler.
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Instructions
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Get a driver's license. The state of Minneapolis requires drivers to be licensed. You can convert another state license, or international license in some cases. You have 30 days to get a Minnesota CDL license after moving from another state if you already have a CDL. You have 60 days for regular licenses.
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Apply for a new driver permit or license through the Minneapolis Regulatory services office. You can find them at the City of Minneapolis website. You will have to pay a fee of $90 for a new driver permit, and $475 to register a vehicle.
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Apply at a city cab company to being your career as a taxi driver. You could also locate and register a vehicle to operate as a taxi cab, if you plan to run your own taxi service. If this is the case, you will also have to file for a DBA (Doing Business As), a federal tax ID for a business, and register your new business. Or, run it as a sole proprietorship and avoid having to file a DBA or get a federal tax ID for a business.
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Learn the city by studying maps and driving around to major points of interest, like the airport, restaurants, major sports arenas, conference centers and the arts districts. Many fares will start at the airport and end at hotels, conference centers and major downtown areas. Learn these first, then start to branch out and learn the finer points of interest in the city.
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Tips & Warnings
Running a taxi service is a lot of work, you need to hire a dispatcher and take on the expense of high gas prices. Today most cabs charge a fuel surcharge.
Getting a job at an established company in Minneapolis is your best bet. You can also try cab companies outside the city in St. Paul, or the surrounding communities.
Driving a taxi cab can be dangerous work. If you run your cab at night, you stand the risk of being robbed.
