Taxi Drivers
Description OES Code: 97114
Taxi drivers, also known as cab drivers, transport passengers to and from their homes, workplaces, and places where they spend their leisure time, such as restaurants, movie theatres, and stores. They also transport out-of-town business people and tourists who need help getting around in new surroundings. Chauffeurs operate limousines, vans, and private cars for limousine companies, private businesses, government agencies, and wealthy individuals. This service differs from taxi service in that all trips are prearranged.

Wages, California
Entry-Level Hourly Wage $6.80
25th Percentile $7.44
50th Percentile $9.23
75th Percentile $12.73

Wages, San Joaquin County
Entry-Level Hourly Wage $9.35
25th Percentile $9.36
50th Percentile $10.18
75th Percentile $11.02

Wages by California County
• OES Survey
• CCOIS Survey

Hours & Benefits
Work hours of taxi drivers and chauffeurs vary greatly. Some jobs offer full-time or part-time employment with work hours that can change from day to day or remain the same every day. It is often necessary for drivers to report to work on short notice. Chauffeurs who work for a single employer may be on call much of the time. Evening and weekend work are common for limousine and taxicab services.

Employment Trends, California
Employment 1998 8,200
Projected Employment 2008 10,900
Percent Change 1998-2008 32.9%
Separations 1998-2008 1,600

Employment Trends, San Joaquin County
Employment 1999 80
Projected Employment 2006 90
Percent Change 1999-2006 12.5%
Separations 1999-2006 10

Employment Trends by California County

Working Conditions
Taxi drivers and chauffeurs occasionally have to load and unload heavy luggage and packages. Driving for long periods can be tiring and uncomfortable, especially in densely populated urban areas. Drivers must be alert to conditions on the road, especially in heavy and congested traffic or in bad weather. They must take precautions to prevent accidents and avoid sudden stops, turns, and other driving maneuvers that would jar passengers. Taxi drivers also risk robbery because they work alone and often carry large amounts of cash.

Advancement
Opportunities for advancement are limited for taxi drivers and chauffeurs. Experienced drivers may obtain preferred routes or shifts. Some advance to dispatcher or manager jobs; others may start their own limousine company. On the other hand, many drivers like the independent, unsupervised work of driving their automobile.

For a list of current job listing, browse CalJOBS or America's Job Bank.

Education and Training
Local governments set license standards and requirements for taxi drivers and chauffeurs that include minimum qualifications for driving experience and training. Many taxi and limousine companies set higher standards than required by law. It is common for companies to review applicants' medical, credit, criminal, and driving records. In addition, many companies require a higher minimum age and prefer that drivers be high school graduates.

Persons interested in driving a limousine or taxicab must first have a regular automobile driver's license. They also must acquire a chauffeur or taxi driver's license, commonly called a "hack" license. Local authorities generally require applicants for a hack license to pass a written exam or complete a training program that may include up to 80 hours of classroom instruction.

Skills & Other Requirements
Drivers should be familiar with streets in the areas they serve so they can use the most efficient route to destinations. They should know the locations of frequently requested destinations, such as airports, bus and railroad terminals, convention centers, hotels, and other points of interest. In case of emergency, the driver should also know the location of fire and police stations and hospitals. Good business sense and courses in accounting, business, and business arithmetic can help an owner-driver become successful. Knowledge of mechanics enables owner-drivers to perform routine maintenance and minor repairs to cut expenses.

References
US Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook

Related Occupations: Truc k Drivers, Bus Drivers

Training: California Training and Education Providers (CTEP)