Yes, tipping a taxi in Vancouver is the norm, though it is not required. One taxi guide puts the expected tip in Canada at about 15 to 20 percent of the fare, and the fare itself does not normally include a service charge. Many drivers count on tips as part of their income.
How much to tip
Drivers often help with luggage, find the best route and wait while you get settled, and a tip recognizes that. Use the quality of the service as your guide. A smooth, friendly trip earns a standard tip. A driver who handled special requests, carried heavy bags or made several stops with you deserves more. If the ride was short or the service was poor, a smaller tip is fair.
- Short trip within the city: round up the fare or add a dollar or two.
- Longer fares: work out a percentage and round to a convenient amount.
- Airport transfers or trips with several stops: lean toward the higher end, since the driver did extra work.
- Help with bags: add a little extra for each heavy item.
Cash, card and taxi apps
Cash handed to the driver is the simplest way to tip. If you pay by card, check whether the terminal offers a tip option before you confirm the payment, and ask the driver if you are unsure. Carry some small bills so the exchange is quick. Apps from taxi companies may also let you add a tip when you pay, so look at the screen before you close the booking.
Tipping on Uber and Lyft
On rideshare apps, tipping is optional. You add it in the app after the ride, either by picking a preset amount or typing your own. Uber has offered in-app tipping in Canada since 2017. Rounding up or adding a few dollars for good service is common. Adjust for the distance, the driver’s professionalism and how the trip went.
Before you ride
If you want a rough idea of the fare so you can plan the tip, try the taxi fare estimator. Then tip based on the final fare and the service you received.