What’s It Like Being a Taxi Driver? Pros and Cons

Is it worth being a taxi driver in London today? Looking at all the potential advantages of working as a private hire minicab or taxi driver, the pros certainly outweigh the cons.

Is it Worth Being a Taxi Driver?

Earning potential  

One of the most appealing reasons to become a private hire driver is that you can earn money depending on how and when you work. Driving with Addison Lee means you’ll be able to make at least the London living wage or more, depending on the hours you choose to drive. Drivers are guaranteed to earn £5,000 in their first month, and average weekly earnings are around £1,000 before vehicle hire.

There are plenty more reasons that make it worth being a minicab or taxi driver. Here are some of the biggest benefits:

• Be your own boss: You are essentially self-employed, which gives you great flexibility.
• Choose your hours: You can set your own working hours, making it easier to earn money in your spare time.
• Low entry barrier: You don’t need any special educational qualifications to become a taxi driver, aside from needing a PCO licence.
• Engage with people: Being a minicab and private hire driver is an interesting job that allows you to meet new people every single day. It’s an excellent option for those who don’t want to spend all day in an office behind a computer.

As with any job, there are also some things to keep in mind to make it as rewarding as possible:

• Working odd hours: Setting your own hours is great, but it might also mean you work very different hours from your family and friends e.g. early mornings
• Working weekends and nights: It’s up to you when you want to work and many drivers earn really well without working on weekends. You will sometimes need to be on the road on weekends and evenings.
• A big responsibility: You are responsible for keeping your passengers safe on the road and providing them with excellent customer service. This can be tiring work, so make sure you take proper breaks and follow the drivers’ hours regulations.

Is being a Taxi Driver Dangerous?

A driving job will always carry some degree of risk because you spend so much time on the road. You must follow rules and guidelines – and safety protocol your operator must put in place – to protect your safety and that of your passengers.

Tips for staying safe on the road:

• Follow the drivers’ hours regulations. You should not drive for more than 10 hours a day.
• Obey the rules of the road. Drive carefully and show respect for other road users, even in stressful situations like congestion or traffic jams.
• Take regular breaks. During a working day of 8 hours and 30 minutes, you must take at least 45 minutes’ worth of rest or breaks. If you have been driving continuously for 5 hours and 30 minutes, you must stop to rest for at least 30 minutes.
• Keep your vehicle maintained. Take care of all repairs, servicing and maintenance needs to keep your vehicle running safely and smoothly. Addison Lee provides drivers with fully maintained electric vehicles, with rental rates starting anywhere between £15 -£
• Get to know your routes. Make sure you familiarise yourself with the routes you travel regularly. This will help you be aware of any “problem areas” or potential hazards and avoid them.
• Work with a company that provides strong Driver support. Addison Lee’s driver liaison and customer service team are available throughout the week, day and night, to help with any last minute issues or queries.

Do you want to learn more about what it’s like to be a driver in London? Get in touch and we’ll be happy to answer any queries you have.

Drive With Addison Lee