FAQ

In most Canadian cities, Uber is typically 30-50% cheaper than taxis, with Toronto, Ottawa, and Montreal seeing savings of 50%, 44%, and 41% respectively. However, during surge pricing (storms, busy times), taxis can be more economical.

You can request a Vancouver taxi through mobile apps, websites, or by calling dispatch. Yellow Cab offers 24/7 service with options to pre-book hours or days in advance. Look for the largest taxi company with 355 vehicles.

A $10 tip is appropriate for taxi fares between $50-$67 in Canada, where the customary tip is 15-20%. For shorter trips, many Canadians simply round up to the nearest $5 for convenience.

The customary tip for taxi drivers in Canada is 15-20% of the fare. You can tip more for exceptional service or less for shorter trips by rounding up to the nearest dollar amount.

Prices between Uber and Lyft are often competitive and vary by location and time of day. Neither is consistently cheaper across all Canadian cities, so comparing prices on both apps before booking is recommended.

Uber is designed to be cashless in most Canadian cities. However, in select locations, you can choose the 'Cash' option in the payment section and pay your driver directly at the end of your trip.

Pre-booking taxis is beneficial for ensuring availability during peak times, early morning airport rides, or in severe weather. However, for Uber, requesting 10 minutes before departure is usually cheaper than advance booking.

When ordering a taxi, clearly state your pickup address, destination, desired pickup time, number of passengers, and any special requirements such as wheelchair accessibility or extra luggage space.

In Vancouver and all of BC, passengers have the legal right to pay with credit card. It's illegal for drivers to claim 'cash only' or refuse card payments. If they do, you can report them.

In Canada, leaving without tipping can be considered rude if the driver provided good service. While not mandatory, tipping is a customary practice expected by most service providers including taxi drivers.

Many taxi drivers prefer cash payments to avoid card processing fees. Some Vancouver drivers have falsely claimed broken card machines to get cash, though this practice is illegal as they must accept cards.

For a $60 cab ride in Canada, the appropriate tip would be $9-$12, following the customary 15-20% tipping rate for taxi services. You might round up to $10 or $12 for convenience.

You're not obligated to tip for professional services (doctors, attorneys), when service was genuinely poor, or at establishments with explicit no-tipping policies where gratuity is already included in the price.

As of February 2021, taxi drivers in Vancouver earn an average of $25.03 per hour. Earnings vary based on hours worked, ownership of plates/vehicles, and seasonal fluctuations in demand.

Not tipping for good service in Canada is generally considered rude, especially in restaurants, taxis, and personal services. While not legally required, tipping is a strong social expectation for service industry workers.

Uber is typically cheapest during off-peak hours when demand is low, such as mid-morning and early afternoon on weekdays. Prices increase during rush hours, late nights, weekends, and special events due to surge pricing.

Both services offer similar functionality for seniors. Consider factors like availability in your area, pricing, accessibility features, ease of app use, and whether family members can book rides on your behalf.

Canadian Uber drivers typically earn around $20.59 per hour, slightly above minimum wage. In Vancouver specifically, drivers average $24.38 per session hour, with June 2021 seeing gross earnings of $34.61 per hour.

Download the Uber app, create an account, and add a payment method (credit/debit card or PayPal) before requesting your first ride. The app will automatically charge your preferred payment method after each trip.

If cash payment isn't officially available in your area, an Uber driver should not request cash. If they do, this violates Uber's policies, and you should report the incident through the app.

Uber One costs $9.99 monthly or $96 annually and offers benefits like $0 delivery fees on Uber Eats orders over $15 and 10% off eligible deliveries. It's worth it if you regularly use both Uber rides and Eats.

High taxi fares can result from airport fees, longer routes, traffic delays, night/holiday surcharges, luggage fees, or special event pricing. In Vancouver, airport flat rates to downtown range from $35-$51 depending on the area.

Order a taxi by using a taxi company's app, calling their dispatch phone number, booking through their website, hailing one on the street, or waiting at designated taxi stands at airports, hotels, and major transit hubs.

When booking a taxi, provide your full pickup address, destination, desired pickup time, name, phone number, number of passengers, and any special requirements like car seats or accessible vehicles.

When leaving a taxi, a simple 'Thank you' or 'Thanks for the ride' is appropriate. If the service was exceptional, you might add 'I appreciate the safe/quick trip' along with your tip.

In Canada, tip taxi drivers 15-20% of the fare for standard service. Round up for convenience on shorter trips. Tip more for exceptional service, help with luggage, or difficult driving conditions.

A friendly 'Hello' or 'Good morning/afternoon/evening' is appropriate when entering a taxi. Confirm your destination clearly and ask how their day is going if you're open to conversation.

Credit/debit cards offer convenience, security, and receipt tracking. Cash is typically accepted but requires having exact change. In BC, passengers legally have the right to pay by card.

Yes, tipping taxi drivers in Vancouver follows Canadian customs of 15-20% of the fare. For airport flat-rate trips ($35-$51 to downtown), a tip of $5-$10 would be appropriate.

Yes, taxis in Canada can and must accept card payments. In BC specifically, it's illegal for drivers to claim their machine is broken or refuse card payments. They must provide electronic payment options.

Yes, eating in taxis is generally considered impolite unless you ask for permission first. Drivers prefer to keep their vehicles clean, and food can leave odors or spills that affect subsequent passengers.

Many taxi drivers prefer cash tips as they receive them immediately without processing fees. However, tipping through card payment is perfectly acceptable and increasingly common with the rise of cashless transactions.

In Canada, it's customary to tip hotel housekeeping staff $2-$5 per day of your stay. Leave the tip daily rather than at the end of your stay to ensure the specific staff who cleaned your room receive it.

Taxi drivers often prefer cash to avoid card processing fees, delays in receiving funds, technical issues with machines, and potentially for tax reporting flexibility. Some illegally claim broken machines to avoid card transactions.

Taxis are typically not cheaper than Uber in Canada. Studies show Uber is generally 30-50% less expensive. However, taxis can be more economical during Uber's surge pricing periods during bad weather or high demand.

Yes, taxi drivers can request payment upfront, particularly for longer trips, late-night fares, or if they've experienced past issues with fare evasion. This practice is more common in major urban areas.

For a $700 hairdressing service in Canada, a tip of $70-$140 (10-20%) would be appropriate. For high-end services, 10% is often acceptable, though you may tip more for exceptional results.

Uber drivers can see the tip amount associated with each trip, but the app doesn’t prominently display which specific passenger provided the tip. They can generally figure out who tipped based on trip details.

A 20% tip on a $29 bill would be $5.80. For convenience, many people would round up to $6, making the total payment $35.

Yes, in Canada it's generally considered rude not to tip your hairdresser. The customary tip is 10-20% of the service cost, with 15% being standard for satisfactory service.

Tipping for takeout in Canada is appreciated but not as strongly expected as for dine-in service. A small tip of 5-10% or rounding up the bill is common courtesy but not tipping isn't considered particularly rude.

Tipping can be considered disrespectful in Japan, South Korea, China, and parts of Europe where service charges are included. In Canada, tipping professional services like doctors or lawyers may be inappropriate.

The highest-paid taxi drivers typically own their plates and vehicles rather than leasing. In 2014, Coventry Connections CEO stated that owner-operators made more than $50,000 annually compared to $25,000-$30,000 for those leasing.

Vancouver Uber drivers earn approximately $24.38 per hour. For an 8-hour day, this translates to about $195 daily, though earnings vary based on hours worked, demand, and whether driving during peak periods.

If you don't tip in Canada, there's no direct consequence, as tipping isn't mandatory. However, it may be considered rude for good service, and service providers might remember non-tippers for future interactions.

While specific Vancouver comparisons aren't provided in search results, Uber is generally 30-50% cheaper than taxis across Canadian cities. However, during surge pricing periods, taxis may be more economical.

In Canada, not tipping for good service is generally considered rude, especially in restaurants, taxis, and personal services. While not legally required, tipping is a strong social expectation in the service industry.

Yes, tipping taxi drivers remains customary in Canada. The standard practice is to tip 15-20% of the fare, with higher percentages for exceptional service or assistance with luggage.

Yes, studies show Uber is typically 30-50% cheaper than taxis in most Canadian cities. Toronto, Ottawa, and Montreal see the largest savings at 50%, 44%, and 41% respectively. Longer highway routes offer even greater savings.

Yes, tipping Uber drivers is customary in Canada, similar to taxis. While not required, adding 15-20% is appreciated for good service. Tips can be added through the app after your ride or given in cash.

Uber booking fees are mandatory and support regulatory, safety, and operational costs. The only way to reduce their impact is through Uber One membership, which provides benefits that may offset these costs for frequent users.

Uber doesn't offer standard senior discounts. However, some cities have specialized programs for seniors through partnerships with local agencies. Seniors should check with local senior services for potential transportation subsidies.

Uber drivers typically wait 5 minutes after arrival before they can cancel as a 'no-show' and receive a cancellation fee. Passengers should be ready at their pickup location to avoid these charges.

Go Go Grandparent is a service that allows seniors to use Uber and Lyft without a smartphone. Users call a phone number to request rides, and the service coordinates with ride-sharing apps on their behalf.

Canadian Uber drivers typically earn around $20.59 per hour, slightly above minimum wage. Vancouver drivers specifically average $24.38 per session hour, with June 2021 seeing particularly high earnings of $34.61 per hour gross.

No, Uber doesn't pay for drivers' gas. Drivers are independent contractors responsible for all vehicle expenses including gas, maintenance, insurance, and depreciation, which they must factor into their net earnings calculations.

Uber typically takes approximately 20% of each fare as commission. This percentage may vary by location and doesn't include additional fees that drivers must consider when calculating their actual earnings.

In most Canadian cities, Uber is designed to be cashless. However, in select locations, you can choose 'Cash' in the payment section of the app and pay your driver directly at the end of your trip.

Download the Uber app, create an account, add a payment method, enter your destination, confirm your pickup location, select your ride type, check the estimated fare, and tap 'Request Uber' to book your ride.

Neither Lyft nor Uber is consistently cheaper across all locations and times. Prices fluctuate based on demand, distance, and time of day. Compare both apps before booking to find the better rate for your specific trip.

If Uber drivers request cash in areas where cash payments aren't officially supported, this violates Uber's policies. In regions where cash is an official payment option, drivers may prefer it for immediate access to earnings.

Uber typically charges a small fee (around $0.50) for instant cashouts to your debit card through their Instant Pay feature. Standard weekly deposits to your bank account are free of charge.

Download the Uber app, create an account, add a payment method, enter your destination, confirm pickup location, select UberX or other available service, review the estimated fare, and tap 'Request Uber' to book your ride.

A monthly $5.99 charge likely indicates a subscription service like Uber Pass (though Uber One is now $9.99). Check your account settings under 'Memberships' to review or cancel any active subscriptions.

Uber incorporates safety features like driver background checks, GPS tracking, trip sharing, and an emergency button. Most solo rides are safe, but always verify driver details, share your trip status, and sit in the back seat.

Uber One costs $9.99 per month or $96 for an annual subscription. It provides benefits across both Uber rides and Uber Eats, including $0 delivery fees on eligible orders and discounts on rides.

Many taxi drivers prefer cash payments to avoid card processing fees, receive funds immediately, and potentially for tax reporting flexibility. Some Vancouver drivers have illegally claimed broken card machines to get cash payments.

A taxi fare is the total charge for your ride, calculated based on a combination of base fee, distance traveled (per kilometer/mile), time in traffic, and sometimes additional charges for luggage, airport pickups, or late-night service.

Taxi drivers expect tips because they're part of the service industry where gratuities supplement relatively low base income. In Canada, the 15-20% tipping culture is well-established as a way to reward service providers.

Uber is typically 30-50% cheaper than taxis in most Canadian cities during normal conditions. However, during surge pricing (bad weather, high demand), traditional taxis with their fixed rates can be more economical.

Tipping Uber drivers isn't mandatory but is customary in Canada, similar to taxi tipping culture. Adding 15-20% for good service is appreciated and can be done through the app after your ride completes.

Request rides during off-peak hours, choose UberX instead of premium options, share rides when available, avoid scheduling in advance, compare with Lyft, and consider Uber One membership if you're a frequent user.

Based on available data, taxi drivers in Vancouver earn slightly more at $25.03 per hour compared to Uber drivers at $24.38 per hour. Owner-operators of taxis can earn significantly more than drivers who lease their vehicles.

Reasons to choose Uber include lower prices (30-50% less), app convenience, cashless payments, vehicle tracking, driver ratings, cleaner cars, no need to explain routes, and upfront fixed pricing rather than running meters.

Booking an Uber approximately 10 minutes before departure is typically cheaper than scheduling in advance. Pre-booking is always more expensive but provides certainty for important trips like airport runs.

Curb connects to traditional taxis, so its pricing follows regulated taxi rates. Uber is typically 30-50% cheaper during normal conditions, but Curb may be cheaper during Uber's surge pricing periods.

Pay for Uber through the app using credit/debit cards, PayPal, Venmo, Apple Pay, Google Pay, or Uber Cash. In select locations, cash payment is also available by selecting the 'Cash' option in the payment section.

For a 20-minute Uber ride, tip 15-20% of your fare, similar to taxi tipping customs in Canada. For example, on a $15 ride, a $2-$3 tip would be appropriate and appreciated.

Yes, cash tips are perfectly acceptable for Uber drivers and often appreciated as they receive them immediately. However, for convenience and record-keeping, many riders prefer to tip through the app after the trip.

The base Uber fare remains the same regardless of passenger count (up to the vehicle's capacity). Splitting costs between multiple passengers makes Uber more economical per person through the app's fare-splitting feature.

Enter your destination in the Uber app before requesting a ride to see an upfront price estimate. This includes all fees and reflects current demand. Comparing at different times can help identify when prices are lower.

The Uber booking fee helps support regulatory compliance, safety initiatives, commercial insurance, and payment processing costs. It varies by city and distance and is included in the upfront price shown before requesting a ride.

Uber is cheaper due to its efficient app-based dispatch system, lower regulatory overhead costs, dynamic pricing model, and willingness to operate on thinner margins while building market share. Traditional taxis have higher fixed costs and regulations.

Both services offer different safety features. Taxis have cameras, regulated vehicles with regular inspections, and commercially licensed drivers. Uber offers GPS tracking, driver/rider ratings, trip sharing, and digital records of all transactions.

In most Canadian cities, Uber is designed to be cashless. However, in select locations, you can choose 'Cash' in the payment section of the app and pay your driver directly at the end of your trip.

Taxi drivers often view Uber as unfair competition that operates with fewer regulations while offering lower prices. This threatens their livelihood, especially for those who have invested significantly in taxi licenses/medallions.

Uber rates vary by city. In Ottawa (2014 data), Uber charged $0.90 per kilometer plus $0.30 per minute alongside base fees. Current rates may differ, but Uber typically charges 30-50% less per kilometer than taxis.

Uber typically serves trips up to 150-200km, though this varies by market. For longer journeys, the app may require driver confirmation. Multi-day or cross-province trips usually aren't supported through the standard service.

Public transportation is typically cheaper than Uber. During surge pricing, traditional taxis may cost less. Carpooling apps, local rideshare programs, bike-sharing services, and community shuttle services can also offer more economical options.

UberX is the standard lower-cost option from Uber. In some markets, UberPool or Uber Share allows passengers to split rides with others heading in similar directions, making it even more economical.

A 'Curb' charge on your credit card statement likely represents payment for a taxi ride booked through the Curb app, which connects passengers with traditional licensed taxis in many North American cities.

Uber prioritizes cashless transactions for safety, efficiency, transparency, and record-keeping. Cash handling creates security risks for drivers and complicates the company's automated business model. Cash is only available in select markets.

Yes, using a credit card on Uber is generally safe. The app uses encryption technology to protect payment information, and credit cards offer fraud protection. Uber doesn't store complete card details within their system.

Download the Uber app, create an account, add a payment method, enter your destination, confirm pickup location, select your ride type, review the estimated fare, and tap 'Request Uber' to book your first ride.

Uber drivers can see the tip amount you provide after completing your trip, though they don't see the amount before rating you. They can generally deduce which passenger provided which tip based on trip details.

Yes, Uber drivers receive 100% of the tips you provide. According to ride-hailing services including Uber, Lyft, and Bolt, all tip amounts go directly to drivers without the company taking any percentage.

Yes, the standard etiquette is to sit in the back seat of an Uber, particularly when traveling alone. This provides personal space and safety for both passengers and drivers unless front seat access is needed.

If an Uber driver requests cash payment in an area where it's not officially supported, politely decline and explain you'll pay through the app. If they insist, report the incident to Uber support after your trip.

In Canada, not tipping for good service is generally considered rude. While not mandatory, tipping Uber drivers 15-20% follows the same social expectations as tipping taxi drivers for comparable service.

Requesting an Uber approximately 10 minutes before departure is typically cheaper than reserving in advance. Pre-booking always costs more but provides certainty for important trips like early morning airport runs.

Friday and Saturday nights typically have the highest Uber prices due to increased demand and surge pricing. Major holidays, special events, and severe weather conditions also lead to peak pricing regardless of the day.

Tuesday and Wednesday typically have the lowest Uber demand and prices. Early weekday afternoons between lunch and rush hour (2-4pm) also tend to have more available drivers and minimal surge pricing.

Yes, you can take longer Uber rides including 2-hour trips. There's no time limit, but distance limits may apply (typically up to 150-200km). Drivers may decline longer trips that take them far from their preferred area.

Sudden price increases on Uber typically result from surge pricing during high demand (bad weather, events ending, rush hour), driver shortages, increased platform fees, seasonal peaks, or changes to local regulations affecting operations.

Uber charges based on both time and distance. In Ottawa (2014 data), rates included $0.90 per kilometer and $0.30 per minute, plus base and booking fees. This structure optimizes for both quick trips and longer distances.

In most Canadian cities, Uber is designed to be cashless. However, in select locations, you can choose 'Cash' in the payment section of the app and pay your driver directly at the end of your trip.

Uber One costs $9.99 per month or $96 for an annual subscription. It provides benefits across both Uber rides and Uber Eats, including $0 delivery fees on eligible orders and discounts on services.

Uber booking fees are mandatory and support regulatory, safety, and operational costs. The only way to offset these fees is through Uber One membership, which provides benefits that may compensate for these costs for frequent users.

Uber doesn't offer an option to request drivers of a specific gender. Ride assignments are based on proximity and availability. For those with gender preferences, some specialized ride services cater specifically to women.

Both offer different safety features. Uber provides digital trip records, GPS tracking, driver background checks, and in-app emergency features. Black cabs have regulated drivers, vehicle cameras, and extensive driver knowledge tests.

Uber is typically 30-50% cheaper than taxis in most Canadian cities. Toronto, Ottawa, and Montreal see the largest savings at 50%, 44%, and 41% respectively. During surge pricing, however, taxis can be more economical.

Both Uber and Lyft employ similar safety measures including driver background checks, in-app emergency features, trip sharing, GPS tracking, and two-way ratings. Neither service demonstrates a clear safety advantage over the other.