Taxi and limousine services play an important role in a large city. The work of taxi drivers and chauffeurs is to take passengers from workplace, homes, recreational pursuits, entertainment, dining, and shopping. The professional drivers help tourists and people to get around in unfamiliar surroundings. These drivers may offer sight-seeing services in and around the city.
Consequently, the cab company dispatcher provides information to the driver by cellular telephone, two-way radio, and onboard computer.
Some of the taxi commissions recommend cabs to specialize in prearranged pickup or cruising. Good taxi drivers are well accustomed to streets in the areas they drive, therefore, they choose the most proficient route to destinations. They should know the most frequently requested locations such as railroad and bus terminals, airports, hotels, convention centers, and other destinations.
A good taxi driver should know emergency destinations such as police stations, hospitals, and fire stations. After reaching the location, drivers decide the fare. In various cabs, a taximeter measures the fare depends upon the amount of time trip has taken and total distance covered. Taxi drivers put on the meter when a passenger enters the cab and put it off when reached the decided destination. The fare may consist of surcharges to cover tolls, fuel costs, drop charge, and handling luggage. In some regions, fares are decided by a system of zones wherein the taxi travels.
Sometimes, taxi drivers and chauffeurs need to load and unload heavy packages and luggage. At times, driving for long periods may be uncomfortable and tiring, especially, thickly populate areas. Taxi drivers may face robbery as they often carry out big amount of cash.
The modification in newer cars has minimized the stress and enhanced efficiency and comfort of drivers. There are various regulatory bodies examining chauffeur and taxi services need standard facilities like general upkeep of the vehicles and air conditioning.
The advanced taxicabs are well equipped with classy fare meters, tracking devices, and dispatching equipment. With the help of tracking and satellite systems, drivers may link vehicles with company headquarters. A dispatcher may deliver weather report, directions, traffic advisories, and other means of communications in the area.
With the help of satellite link, a dispatcher may track fuel consumption, vehicle location, and engine performance.
The automated dispatch systems facilitate dispatchers to position and closet driver to a consumer with regard to increase the quality of service and lessen individual time. With the help of this system, a taxi driver may communicate with dispatchers to inform delivery schedules and actions in case there are mechanical problems. Taxi drivers may have trouble lights to make aware emergency authorities when they are threatened with violence or crime.
Local governments establish licensing requirements and standards for chauffeurs and taxi drivers. These requirements may include training and experience. Most limousine and taxi companies establish higher standard than required by law.
These companies verify applicants' credit, driving, medical, and criminal record. Additionally, some companies require applicants to have completed at least twenty-one years of age. Many employers prefer applicants to be a high school graduate.
Many companies seek for candidates who have completed a high school diploma or GED or equivalent. Drivers should be able to communicate effectively. They must be familiar with basic math and need to have knowledge of basic mechanics. Apart from these skills many drivers take a course offered by their employers or the government.
Chauffeurs and taxi drivers have limited opportunities. An experienced driver may attain preferred shifts or routes. Some of the drivers may advance to become lead drivers while others may obtain managerial and dispatching positions. There are several managers who begin their career as drivers. Some drivers may start their own limousine companies.