Taxi Drivers
53-3054.00
Bright Outlook Updated 2024

A subset of this occupation's profile is available. Data collection is currently underway to populate other parts of the profile.

Drive a motor vehicle to transport passengers on an unplanned basis and charge a fare, usually based on a meter.

Sample of reported job titles: Cab Driver, Taxi Cab Driver, Taxi Driver

Occupation-Specific Information

Tasks

  • Collect fares or vouchers from passengers, and make change or issue receipts as necessary.
  • Communicate with dispatchers by radio, telephone, or computer to exchange information and receive requests for passenger service.
  • Complete accident reports when necessary.
  • Determine fares based on trip distances and times, using taximeters and fee schedules, and announce fares to passengers.
  • Drive taxicabs or privately owned vehicles to transport passengers.
  • Follow relevant safety regulations and state laws governing vehicle operation, and ensure that passengers follow safety regulations.
  • Notify dispatchers or company mechanics of vehicle problems.
  • Perform minor vehicle repairs, such as cleaning spark plugs, or take vehicles to mechanics for servicing.
  • Perform routine vehicle maintenance, such as regulating tire pressure and adding gasoline, oil, and water.
  • Pick up passengers at prearranged locations, at taxi stands, or by cruising streets in high-traffic areas.
  • Provide passengers with assistance entering and exiting vehicles, and help them with any luggage.
  • Provide passengers with information or advice about the local area, points of interest, hotels, or restaurants.
  • Report to taxicab services or garages to receive vehicle assignments.
  • Test vehicle equipment, such as lights, brakes, horns, or windshield wipers, to ensure proper operation.
  • Turn the taximeter on when passengers enter the cab, and turn it off when they reach the final destination.
  • Vacuum and clean interiors and wash and polish exteriors of automobiles.
Find occupations related to multiple tasks

Technology Skills

Hot technology
Hot Technologies are requirements most frequently included across all employer job postings.

Occupational Requirements

Detailed Work Activities

Find occupations related to multiple detailed work activities

Experience Requirements

Job Zone

Title
Job Zone Two: Some Preparation Needed
Education
These occupations usually require a high school diploma.
Related Experience
Some previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is usually needed. For example, a teller would benefit from experience working directly with the public.
Job Training
Employees in these occupations need anywhere from a few months to one year of working with experienced employees. A recognized apprenticeship program may be associated with these occupations.
Job Zone Examples
These occupations often involve using your knowledge and skills to help others. Examples include orderlies, counter and rental clerks, customer service representatives, security guards, upholsterers, tellers, and dental laboratory technicians.
SVP Range
(4.0 to < 6.0)

Training & Credentials

State training
Local training
Certifications
Find certifications nationwide
State licenses

Apprenticeship Opportunities

Start your career and build your skillset. Visit Apprenticeship.gov to learn about opportunities related to this occupation.

Worker Characteristics

Interests

Interest code: RC
Want to discover your interests? Take the O*NET Interest Profiler at My Next Move.
  • Realistic — Work involves designing, building, or repairing of equipment, materials, or structures, engaging in physical activity, or working outdoors. Realistic occupations are often associated with engineering, mechanics and electronics, construction, woodworking, transportation, machine operation, agriculture, animal services, physical or manual labor, athletics, or protective services.
  • Conventional — Work involves following procedures and regulations to organize information or data, typically in a business setting. Conventional occupations are often associated with office work, accounting, mathematics/statistics, information technology, finance, or human resources.

Workforce Characteristics

Wages & Employment Trends

Median wages (2023)
$16.67 hourly, $34,680 annual
State wages
Local wages
Employment (2022)
177,300 employees
Projected growth (2022-2032)
Much faster than average (9% or higher)
Projected job openings (2022-2032)
22,800
State trends

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics 2023 wage data and 2022-2032 employment projections . “Projected growth” represents the estimated change in total employment over the projections period (2022-2032). “Projected job openings” represent openings due to growth and replacement.

Job Openings on the Web

State job openings
Local job openings

More Information

Professional Associations

Disclaimer: Sources are listed to provide additional information on related jobs, specialties, and/or industries. Links to non-DOL Internet sites are provided for your convenience and do not constitute an endorsement.

National Associations
Regional Associations
Accreditation, Certification, & Unions