Last Updated: April 23, 2021
Which Taxi Cabs Accept Credit Cards, And What If They Don’t?
In the modern world of online transactions and apple pay it is a fair question to ask your next taxi driver – do you accept credit cards.
Depending on where you are in the world the answer will vary, of course.
But it is becoming increasingly more common to see credit card and debit card machines in taxi cabs around the world.
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Places Where Credit Cards Are Often Accepted
There is no definitive answer to “does a taxi accept credit cards” because there is so much variation, however I have done my best to figure out which countries routinely accept credit cards in taxis.
Just going on what happens in most major cities this is what I have found.
Major Cities Around The World Where Taxis Accept Credit Cards
New York City
Taxis generally accept credit cards in NYC but have often been accused of trying to avoid allowing them through various scams.
Chicago
It seems almost common knowledge now that taxis in Chicago have to accept credit cards. It’s great to know that some cities have things sorted!
Los Angeles
LA has a bill of rights for taxis which can help alleviate your concerns. They accept credit cards, albeit with a fee.
Paris
Nothing is ever certain in some European cities, but the city of love will in most cases accept your credit card.
Frankfurt
German cities seem to widely accept credit cards and Frankfurt is no exception.
Zurich
Zurich has a quite a well developed taxi service and Switzerland’s taxis usually accept credit cards.
London
In face of the ever-present challenge from Uber, London taxis are being forced to accept credit cards from October 2016.
Sydney
Most taxis in Sydney accept credit cards, so usually you will be good to go hailing a cab downunder!
What To Do When Taxi Cabs Don’t Accept Credit Cards
You should always keep in mind that a taxi might not take credit card. That is what I believe and live by when I am traveling, and so far, all around the world, this has not gotten me into any trouble.
Here are my top 3 tips for staying out of trouble with taxis and the whole credit card problem:
- Always ask when you are getting into a taxi to avoid the problem in the first place. Unless you are only given one taxi to choose from, this is rarely a problem (especially at airports)
- Try to get some cash either before you leave home or as soon as you arrive in a new country. Cash is always handy, even if just for a snack, a bottle of water or other small things. So use an ATM in the airport when you land or go to a bank before you leave.
- If you forget to ask before you get into the taxi, and you have no cash when you arrive, you will have to get the driver to simply take you to the closest ATM. It has happened to me before, and it might happen again (to you too) in the future. Don’t panic, you just need to get some cash.
Final Thoughts
Whether the city you are going to visit or on business it always pays to be prepared. And in this case that means having just a little cash on your when arriving or getting when you do.
Never rely on anything when traveling and always have a backup. You won’t be disappointed or ruin your trip if you do.
About the Author Roger Timbrook
Roger is a little obsessed with travel. He has been to over 40 countries, broken 3 suitcases and owned over 10 backpacks in 12 months. What he doesn't know about travel, ain't worth knowing!
