Whether you’re hopping into a traditional taxi or booking a ride through Uber or Lyft, your experience isn’t just about getting from point A to point B—it’s also about how you treat the person getting you there. Good passenger etiquette creates a smoother ride for everyone involved and can make a lasting impression, especially when you’re a regular commuter or relying on a driver in unfamiliar territory.
Here’s a guide to proper behavior when riding in taxis and rideshares, covering everything from basic courtesy to the finer points of ride-sharing culture.
- Be Ready When Your Ride Arrives
Time is money for drivers. Whether you’re using a cab service or a rideshare app, try to be outside or at the pickup location when your driver arrives. Lingering inside while they wait can delay other passengers and negatively impact a driver’s schedule or rating system.
Tip: Track your driver’s location using the app (if available) and use that time to prepare for a swift, respectful pickup.
- Greet Your Driver (and Confirm the Ride)
Start your ride with a simple greeting and, in the case of rideshares, confirm your name and destination. Saying “Hi, are you here for [your name]?” ensures you’re getting into the correct vehicle—and sets the tone for a friendly, professional exchange.
This is also a safety best practice, as it helps you avoid getting into the wrong car.
- Respect the Car
Treat the vehicle as you would your own—or better. That means:
- No eating or drinking without permission
- Avoid slamming doors
- Don’t leave trash behind
- Keep feet off the seats
Drivers are responsible for maintaining a clean and comfortable space for the next passenger, and your behavior contributes directly to that.
- Limit Loud or Distracting Behavior
If you’re taking a call or chatting with a companion, keep your voice at a moderate volume. Refrain from playing music or videos without headphones, and avoid asking the driver to engage in lengthy conversations if they appear focused on the road.
Some drivers enjoy conversation; others prefer to concentrate. Read the cues, and if you’re unsure, a polite “Do you mind if I chat?” goes a long way.
- Follow Local Safety Guidelines
Always buckle your seatbelt and avoid distracting the driver while the car is in motion. If local laws require masks or limit front seat use, be sure to comply with those rules without debate.
Your safety—and the driver’s livelihood—depends on following basic legal and platform guidelines.
- Be Mindful of Stops and Route Changes
If you need to make an unexpected stop or change your destination, communicate clearly and respectfully. Some drivers may need to adjust their app settings or update the meter, so give them time to do so.
When booking shared rides (if available), avoid route changes altogether unless it’s an emergency.
- Tip Appropriately
While tipping is optional, it’s highly appreciated—and in some cases, expected. For rideshare drivers, most tipping is done in-app. For taxis, carry small bills or ask if they accept digital payments. A standard tip ranges from 15% to 20%, depending on service quality and ride length.
- Use the App Responsibly
In rideshare platforms, ratings matter. Leave fair, constructive feedback and consider the full context of your ride. If there was an issue, address it with support instead of retaliating with a low rating unless it was a serious breach of service or safety.
- Respect Personal Boundaries
Drivers are working professionals, not personal chauffeurs. Avoid asking personal questions or making inappropriate comments. This includes topics that may be too political, religious, or intrusive in nature.
- Leave Gracefully
At the end of the ride, a simple “Thank you” or “Have a great day” goes a long way. It signals respect and appreciation, especially for drivers navigating traffic, unfamiliar addresses, or tight schedules to get you to your destination on time.
A little courtesy makes a big difference. Whether you’re riding with a traditional taxi service or using Uber or Lyft, following these basic etiquette tips shows respect for your driver’s time, effort, and workspace. And in return, you’re more likely to receive great service, smooth communication, and—yes—even better ratings.
So next time you step into a ride, remember: travel well, tip fairly, and treat your ride like the shared space it is.
