Taxi Passenger Rights

Taxi Passenger Bill of Rights

1. Right to be Picked up and Dropped off at your Destination

A taxi driver cannot refuse a fare unless he/she feels threatened by a passenger's behavior and/or actions. For example, if a taxi driver feels that a passenger is too inebriated or not in control of their senses, he can refuse a fare. Loud cursing, violent behavior and offensive or racially abusive language can also result in a cab driver refusing a fare.

2. Right to Pay in Cash or with a Credit Card

As a taxi passenger, you have the right of payment choice. You can choose to pay in cash or with a valid credit card. A taxi driver cannot refuse a credit card payment.

3. Right to Request a Preferred Route

You, as a passenger have the full rights to advise and direct the taxi driver to take a shorter or more economical route as per your preference. A taxi driver cannot refuse your directions.

4. Right to Request Paper/Email Receipts

Taxi passengers have full rights to request a paper receipt or a receipt via email. Your taxi driver cannot refuse giving you a receipt.

5. Right to Request Airport Access Fee Receipt

Many Airports (including Richmond RIC Airport) require taxis and other commercial vehicles to pay an access fee to enter the terminal and pick up passengers. If your driver adds the access fee to your fare, you have full rights to request and view the actual receipt. However, the driver is not obligated to give you a copy of the access fee receipt.

6. Right to a Clean Vehicle

A taxi passenger has the right to travel in a clean, smoke and odor-free vehicle. If you feel that your taxi has strong smoke odor, you have the right to ask the driver to arrange for another smoke free vehicle at no additional cost.

7. Right to be Accompanied by a Service/Assistance Dog

A taxi passenger has the right to travel with an assistance dog, provided that the dog is held with a proper restraining leash or a harness. Assistance dogs should be seated on the floor and not on seats, so as to not inconvenience future passengers who may have pet dander allergies.

8. Right to View the Taxi Drivers Permit/License

A taxi passenger has full rights to request to view the taxi drivers taxi permit/license. A taxi driver cannot refuse to show you his permit.

9. Right to a Safe and Courteous Driver

As a taxi passenger, you have the right to receive courteous service from the driver. You also have the right to a safe ride. You can ask your driver to stop if you feel he exhibits rude behavior or drives in a reckless or unsafe manner.

10. Right to a Quiet Noise-Free Atmosphere

Taxi passengers, have the right to a peaceful noise free vehicle. If your driver plays the radio or any other kind of music, you have the right to ask him to stop. You also have the right to ask your driver to stop honking or refrain from aggressive or erratic driving behavior.

11. No Cell Phone Usage

As a passenger, you have full rights to ask the driver to not use their cell phone. This applies for both hand-held or Bluetooth enabled hands-free devices.

12. Proper and Comfortable Air Conditioning

Taxi passengers have the right to a vehicle with working air conditioning. Passengers also have the right to request that heating/cooling be turned on/off or temperature levels lowered/increased.

12. Right to Refuse a Tip

Taxi passengers have the right to refuse paying a tip. A driver cannot object to not being paid a tip or demand one.

13. Right to a Fully Operational & Working Vehicle

Taxi passengers have the right to a fully operational and roadworthy vehicle. A taxi must have working seat belts, wiper blades, headlights, tail lights, windows, door handles, locks, safety airbags and proper air conditioning.