Hailing a Cab
There are more than 2,300 taxis in the city of Los Angeles; however, this does not mean they are easy to hail! Most people in Los Angeles own and drive their own cars making the amount of people who use public transportation less than most cities. This causes many taxis to wait at cab stands where they are guaranteed to get a fare instead of driving around to find the few people who are trying to hail a cab. Popular places for cabs to wait are in front of prevalent restaurants, bars and clubs (like those on the Sunset Strip), Downtown Union Station, and in front of the bigger hotels. At many hotels if a taxi line is not present, there should be someone near the entrance of the building who can call one for you.
If you are trying to hail a cab make sure you are in Downtown Los Angeles or Hollywood as those are the only two areas where you will find a cab roaming the streets for a fare. Make sure once you have hailed your cab that it is an official city of Los Angeles TaxiCab. There will be a seal on the car and taxicabs bearing this seal are insured and have trained drivers so you know you are in good hands. Any cab without this seal is known as a bandit cab and has no legal authorization to operate in the City.
Rates
The rates in Los Angeles are as follows, $2.85 flag drop (first 1/9th mile), $0.30 for each additional 1/9th mile ($2.70 per mile), and $0.30 for each 37.0 seconds waiting time and/or traffic delay ($29.19 per hour). There are also a few popular flat rates such as $55.00 flat rate for trips between Norwalk and LAX and $46.50 flat rare for trips between LAX and downtown.
Surcharges and Extras
- Expect a $4.00 surcharge for all trips originating at LAX.
- There is a $15.00 minimum fare for trips originating at LAX (In addition to the $4.00 surcharge)
FAQs
Do you tip your cab driver in Los Angeles?
- Yes, it is customary to tip your cab driver about 15%.
Is the traffic bad in Los Angeles?
- Yes, you should always allow more time to get to your destination than you might think. Rush hour in particular can add quite a bit of time to your trip! Rush hour is typically from 7am to 9am and 3pm to 7pm.
Do I have to wear a seat belt in the cab?
- Yes, California has a seat belt law for both drivers and passengers, so buckle up!
Airport to City Center 
Taxi stands at LAX can be found outside the lower/arrival level in front of each terminal. There will be yellow signs indicating Taxis to help you find them. Once at the stand you will be given a ticket that will state the typical fares to major destinations, so you know what to expect. A ride from LAX to Downtown Los Angeles is a flat rate of $46.50. A ride from LAX to Norwalk is $55. Also there is a $4.00 surcharge for all trips originating at LAX.
Disputes
In case of a dispute, reach out to LADOT by calling 1-800-501-0999.
For more information please visit: http://www.taxifarefinder.com/info.php?city=LA
