If you’re planning a taxi journey in the UK, one of the most common questions is: do taxis take card payments? The short answer is yes, but there are important details you should know. Payment methods can vary by vehicle type, location, and company policy. This guide explains when taxis accept card payments, how the system works, what rules apply in different cities, and tips for a smooth payment experience.
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Do taxis take card payments in the UK?
Yes, taxis in the UK generally accept card payments, but there are some nuances:
- In many major cities and towns, including London, taxis must offer card payment facilities.
- In smaller towns or rural areas, some taxis may still prefer cash or contactless payments.
- Payment devices may accept debit cards, credit cards, and contactless (tap‑to‑pay) options such as Apple Pay or Google Pay.
Transport authorities and taxi regulations are increasingly pushing for modern payment options, making card payments more widespread than ever.
Why are more taxis now accepting card payments
There are several reasons why card payments are now common in UK taxis:
- Customer demand: With fewer people carrying cash, passengers increasingly expect to pay by card, contactless, or mobile wallet.
- Regulatory support: In cities like London, taxi licensing requires drivers to be able to accept card payments, meaning customers aren’t forced to use cash.
- Safety and convenience: Card payments reduce the need for handling cash, making journeys quicker and safer for drivers and passengers alike.
Card payments in London taxis
In London, taxi drivers licensed by Transport for London (TfL) are required to accept payment by card. This means:
- All licensed London taxis must have a card reader installed
- Passengers can usually pay with debit, credit, and contactless cards
- Mobile payment options such as Apple Pay and Google Pay are often supported
This rule ensures that passengers in the capital can expect consistent payment options, no matter which licensed cab they use.
Taxi card payments outside London
Outside London, the situation varies depending on the local taxi licensing authority and individual taxi operator:
- Larger cities like Manchester, Birmingham, and Glasgow also have many taxis equipped with card machines.
- In smaller towns and rural areas, some taxis may still only take cash, though this is becoming less common.
- Private hire vehicles (PHVs) and app‑based services such as Uber usually include card payments as standard.
If in doubt, you can always ask the driver before starting your journey whether they take card.
Types of card payments you can use
Most taxis that accept card payments support:
- Chip and PIN
- Contactless payments (tap‑to‑pay)
- Mobile wallets such as Apple Pay or Google Pay
These options make paying quick and easy, especially for passengers who don’t want to carry cash.
What to do if a taxi doesn’t take a card
Even though card payments are common, you might occasionally encounter a taxi that doesn’t accept them. If that happens:
- Ask the driver before you get in whether they take card payments.
- If the driver doesn’t have a card reader, be prepared to pay with cash.
- Consider a private hire app‑based service (like Uber, Bolt, or local equivalents) that confirms payment methods before booking.
In many cases, app‑based bookings will only accept card or app payment, avoiding the issue entirely.
Why do some taxis still not take card?
There are a few reasons why some taxis might not have card payment facilities:
- Cost of equipment: Card readers and payment processing services can be expensive for independent drivers.
- Connectivity issues: Rural areas may have poor mobile reception, making card machines unreliable.
- Cash preference: Some drivers prefer cash for simplicity or to avoid processing fees.
However, as digital payment technology becomes cheaper and more widespread, fewer taxis operate without card facilities.
Are there any fees for paying by card?
Most taxi drivers do not charge extra for card payments, but policies vary:
- Some independent taxi services may add a small surcharge to cover card processing fees.
- In many cities, there are regulations limiting or prohibiting additional card fees.
Always check with the driver or booking app if you’re unsure.
Do private hire cars take card payments?
Yes. Private hire vehicles (PHVs) booked through apps or phone bookings almost always offer card payment as standard. Payment is typically handled through the app or by card reader in the vehicle.
Examples include:
- Uber
- Bolt
- Local taxi booking apps
This often makes private hire a more predictable card payment experience than hailing a taxi on the street.
Summary
So, do taxis take card payments? Yes, Most do, especially in urban areas and in major UK cities like London, where it’s required. Outside cities, card acceptance is widespread but not universal, so it’s always wise to check with the driver before you begin your journey. With the growth of app‑based private hire services, card and contactless payments are easier and more reliable than ever, making taxi travel convenient and cash‑free for most passengers.
