How much to tip taxi drivers?

[AnninIowa]

How much do you tip when taking a taxi? We'll be using taxis 4 times next months and I have no clue!

 

[Bob P]

15-20% of the fare each way.

 

[Edd]

Tip them what they deserve. If they drive you to Disney and don't speak or stay on the cellphone all the way don't give them a dime. You are only required to pay the rate on the meter. Gratuity is for service performed. Many drivers do not understand that.

 

[ducklite]

Tip them what they deserve. If they drive you to Disney and don't speak or stay on the cellphone all the way don't give them a dime. You are only required to pay the rate on the meter. Gratuity is for service performed. Many drivers do not understand that.

Don't you mean if they don't speak to you or if they stay on the cell phone? Pretty sure you do, just clarifying because it reads like you are saying if they don't stay on the cell phone you shouldn't tip them...

Frankly I'm paying for a cab ride, not conversation, and I wouldn't not tip someone who didn't spend 45 minutes in pleasant banter. As long as they aren't rude and politely answer any questions I might have, I would tip them 20%.

Anne

 

[kirbsam]

i tip about 20%, and i appreciate a quick safe ride. talking is optional and definately not necessary.

 

[wee-haggis]

I'm amazed at how tipping has went from 10% several years ago to 15% then 20%.
What will it be in a couple of years 25% ??

 

[Edd]

Anne,

You are right. That is what I meant. I do totally agree with the post above. Pretty soon everyone will be wanting to give away 25%. I still feel a driver should have to display a great attitude in one way or another to get any extra.

 

[bavaria]

I tend to tip better if the driver helps me with my luggage. I have had many cab drivers not open the door, pop the trunk, and expect me to load my own suitcase and laptop, then close the trunk.

Needless to say that type of behavior does not get a decent tip from me..

 

[wee-haggis]

Anne,

You are right. That is what I meant. I do totally agree with the post above. Pretty soon everyone will be wanting to give away 25%. I still feel a driver should have to display a great attitude in one way or another to get any extra.

Many drivers (and customers) think the tip is a "given" whereas it should in fact be earned for "going beyond the call of duty"