Taxi drivers, ride-hailing drivers,
and chauffeurs
drive passengers to and from
the places they need to go—
whether they’re in a big hurry,
or prefer to arrive in style.
They must know their local area in detail,
including popular destinations,
emergency services,
and the routes that best avoid
rush hour traffic.
Drivers follow local regulations,
and keep tabs on weather
and road conditions that affect driving.
Taxi drivers pick up passengers
from taxi lines at airports and hotels,
or respond to dispatcher calls
to pick up a customer.
They charge based on a meter
that runs while driving,
and take breaks between passengers.
Ride-hailing drivers
set their own hours,
and use their personal vehicles
to pick up passengers
who request service
through a smartphone app.
Chauffeurs drive limousines
or private cars to take passengers
on prescheduled trips.
They may work for one person,
a business or government agency,
or drive a large hotel van.
Paratransit drivers operate vehicles
equipped with wheelchair lifts
and other equipment
to accommodate elderly passengers,
or those with disabilities.
Though many taxi drivers and chauffeurs
work full time,
part-time driving is not uncommon.
Schedules may include late nights,
early mornings, weekends, and holidays.
Drivers experience the stress
of heavy traffic,
and must load heavy baggage.
Drivers must have a regular driver’s license,
but there are
no formal education requirements…
on-the-job training may be provided.
Some positions also require
a taxi or limousine license.