FAQ
Taxi Driver FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about working as a taxi driver.
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about becoming a taxi driver: pay, training time, degrees, certifications and whether it’s a good career.
9 questions about taxi drivers
Do taxi drivers need a license?
Many cities require one.
Is the job growing?
Yes, BLS projects much faster than average growth.
Are drivers employees?
Many are independent contractors.
How much does a taxi driver make?
The median annual wage for taxi drivers was $42,100 ($20.24 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $34,650 and the highest 10% earned more than $75,800.
How long does it take to become a taxi driver?
Most people need about A few days of training. No formal educational credential is required.
Do you need a degree to be a taxi driver?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “no formal educational credential” as the typical entry-level education, plus short-term on-the-job training.
Is taxi driver a good career?
It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change +11.5% from 2025–35 (much faster than average), with about 20,400 openings each year. Upsides include much faster-than-average growth; a common challenge is that unpredictable income.
What skills does a taxi driver need?
Key technical skills include safe driving, navigation, fare collection, and app use. Employers also value courtesy, patience, and calm.
What certifications are available for taxi drivers?
Common credentials include Taxi or for-hire license, Clean driving record, Defensive driving course, and Commercial insurance. Many cities require taxi drivers to hold a local taxi or for-hire vehicle license.
Still deciding?
Try the Taxi Driver fit quiz, compare with Shuttle Driver, or explore Taxi Driver training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 53-3054 (Taxi drivers).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Taxi drivers (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.