How much to tip a taxi driver
For a taxi ride in the US, start with 15 to 20% of the metered fare. On a short trip, at least $2 is a practical amount; add a little for luggage help.
Add a couple of dollars when they load luggage. Round up to a clean number if you are paying cash.
This ride
Add a few details to see what to tip.
20% of a $25 fare (min $2)
$5
$5 on top of the meter, a couple of dollars more when they handle bags. Round up to a clean number if you are paying cash.
What to tip
15 to 20% of the fare. $2 minimum on a very short ride so the percent is not coins.
25% for heavy bags, a careful driver in bad weather, or help you did not expect.
$0 extra only when a service charge is already on the receipt, or the ride was genuinely unsafe or hostile.
When to adjust it
Cab vs rideshare
A metered taxi or cab follows this page: 15 to 20% of the fare. Uber and Lyft work the same way in-app and have their own page.
Luggage and airport runs
Add a couple of dollars per bag they load and unload. Airport fees on the meter are not a substitute for the tip.
Paying by card in the cab
Most cabs take cards, and the screen often suggests 15, 20, and 25%. Those are fair; you are not obligated to pick the highest button.
A short hop
On a $6 ride, 20% is barely a dollar. Round up to a $2 to $3 minimum so it matches the trip.
Location matters
United States (default)
Tipping a taxi driver is customary in the US. These ranges are compiled custom, not a fare table.
High-cost cities
20% is normal in New York and similar cities. Heavy traffic they cannot control is not a reason to cut the tip.
Outside the US
In many countries a cab tip is just rounding up, or nothing at all. Follow local practice; this page is the American norm.
Common questions
How much do you tip a taxi driver?
Plan on 15 to 20% of the metered fare in the US, with 20% the solid default and a couple of dollars more for luggage.
How much do you tip a cab driver?
The same as a taxi: 15 to 20% of the fare. Round up to a clean number in cash.
Do you tip a taxi driver who helps with luggage?
Yes, add about $2 per bag they load and unload on top of the fare percentage.
How much do you tip on a $25 cab fare?
About $5 at 20%, or $3.75 at 15%. Round to a clean $5.
Do you tip a taxi the same as Uber?
Yes, the band is the same 15 to 20%. With Uber you tip in the app; with a taxi you tip cash or on the card reader.
Sources and policies
These links show relevant company policies and tipping guidance. Our amounts are starting points, and practices can change. Check your booking, bill, or provider before paying.