Taxi Drivers
Taxi drivers operate motor vehicles to transport passengers on unplanned routes, charging fares typically calculated by meter. They work in cities and towns, picking up customers from streets, dispatch calls, or taxi stands, then driving them to requested destinations. The work requires a valid driver's license and knowledge of local roads.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against taxi drivers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A taxi driver's week involves managing multiple short trips throughout shifts that may span day or night hours. Tasks include accepting passenger requests, navigating traffic and routes, collecting fares, maintaining the vehicle's cleanliness and fuel, and handling payment transactions. Drivers track earnings, manage their schedules around peak and slow periods, and spend time waiting between fares at stands or while cruising for customers.
Who this work suits
Holland code RCS. Realistic work is hands-on, practical work with tools, machines or the outdoors. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You likely do well in this work if you prefer concrete, hands-on tasks over abstract problem-solving, and you're comfortable following established rules and procedures. You tend to be organized about details like routes and payments, and you enjoy independent work with regular direct customer interaction.
What it takes
Preparation: Some preparation (usually high school; some on-the-job training).
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Texas | $37,700 | $48,740 | $60,470 | 460 |
| Nevada | $39,170 | $44,800 | $65,670 | 2,980 |
| Colorado | $38,580 | $43,490 | $45,360 | 60 |
| New York | $36,030 | $41,570 | $42,100 | — |
| New Hampshire | $28,390 | $41,510 | $41,600 | 80 |
| California | $39,260 | $39,260 | $39,260 | 3,880 |
| Missouri | $32,830 | $37,560 | $38,020 | 200 |
| Oregon | $34,870 | $37,120 | $39,710 | 240 |
| Maine | $36,610 | $36,960 | $47,160 | 50 |
| North Carolina | $35,690 | $36,950 | $41,600 | 120 |
| Maryland | $34,270 | $36,900 | $39,680 | 50 |
| Illinois | $34,910 | $36,770 | $43,410 | 190 |
All 24 states
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against taxi drivers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 53-3054.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.