Las Vegas Taxis

There are several cab companies operating within the greater Las Vegas area, however all of the companies operate under similar rules and rates. Complaints about cabs and cab drivers are not uncommon. Except in the case of criminal activity these should be reported to the Nevada Taxi Cab Authority and not the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department or the casino where you are staying.

Things to watch for in the cab:

1. There are two ways to get from the Strip to Downtown. Both should cost approximately the same. If you didn’t take one of these routes you may have been taken for a ride literally: The nearest I-15 North on-ramp (Flamingo, Tropicana, or Spring Mt.) to 95 S. About 30 seconds on 95 S. and get off at the “Downtown” exit. Las Vegas Blvd North, all the way north. That’s it, you’re there. There are a few one way streets, just make sure when going to your exact Downtown destination your cab isn’t going in circles.

2. Before leaving your cab, make sure you have all of your personal possessions. Cab drivers will rarely take the time to return lost or stolen items.

3. Rates do not vary from one company to another. Read the meter before paying the cab driver, it will display your exact charge.

4. You do not have to let the cab drop you off before your destination. In fact they are not allowed to drop you off until they get to the front door of a casino. Generally when they do this they are trying to “cut” in front of other cab drivers for the next pick-up.

5. If a cab driver is driving recklessly do not hesitate to report them to the Nevada Taxi Cab Authority. Cabs are a leading cause of wrecks in Las Vegas and reckless drivers should be reported.

All cabs in Las Vegas are under the jurisdiction of the Nevada Taxi Cab Authority, and all rates for different companies should follow the following guidelines:

Initial activation of the meter - $3.30
Each 1/13 mile - $.20 ($2.60/mile)
Waiting time per hour - $30
Additional McCarran pick-up fee - $1.80

Tipping cab drivers is customary. Keep in mind that most cab companies actually charge their drivers for the privilege of working and their hourly rate is basically gone after taxes. They pay taxes on tips whether they get tipped or not and this is taken directly from their pay check. On a bad day they can work a 10 hour shift and actually have lost money at the end of the day.

Most sources agree 15% is average and an extra $1 or $2 dollars for bags.