How to Tip a Cab Driver

Whatever "tip" stands for (to insure promptness, or to improve politeness), a cab driver's standard gratuity expectation is 15 percent of the fare.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Money Belts
• Wallets
• Portable Calculators
• Cellular Phone Services
• Cellular Phones

1. Discuss fares when you get into the cab, especially if you're in a new city, or if you're unfamiliar with the distance to a new or far-off destination.
2. Have enough cash in your pocket to tip at least 10 percent over the fare.
3. Go beyond standard expectations if your driver performs an extra duty such as acting as a tour guide or providing beyond-the-call-of-duty baggage handling - or if the cabbie gets you there lickety-split on a heavy traffic day.
4. Remember that tipping is not mandatory, but drivers rely on tips for the majority of their salary.
5. Give the tip with the fare.
6. Inform the driver to "keep the change." Or wait if you're expecting money back, and then tip from your change.

Tips & Warnings

• Have small bills. It's easier to tip and pay your fare that way.
• If you set up a monthly cab account, you can ask for the same driver to be at your office at the same time. And you might want to consider tipping this dependable driver generously.
• Don't always expect drivers to know or use shortcuts or the best traffic routes. You can advise them to avoid racking up fares in traffic jams.
• Sometimes trips to the airport have flat fees. Check with your driver.
• Unregulated or "gypsy" cabs are usually illegal, and their fares may or may not be competitive, so be warned.