Choosing a ride should be simple, yet prices, extras and rules can vary. Knowing the right questions to ask before booking a taxi protects you from surprises. This checklist covers ten questions that apply to any taxi service, along with the kind of answers you should expect.
The Questions to Ask Before Booking a Taxi
- Are your drivers accredited? In Victoria, commercial passenger vehicle drivers must be accredited, and Safe Transport Victoria oversees compliance. A good provider answers this easily.
- Is the fare fixed or an estimate? Fares for booked trips are set by the operator, so ask for a fixed fare or a clear estimate before you travel.
- What extras apply? Tolls, airport fees and some payment methods can add to the total. For taxis, the Essential Services Commission has listed a maximum non-cash payment surcharge of 4 per cent, including GST, for most non-cash payment methods. Ask what applies to you.
- What is the waiting time policy? If you need the driver to wait, ask how it works and how it is priced.
- What is the cancellation policy? Plans change, so find out the rules before you book.
- Which vehicle suits my group and luggage? Sedans, SUVs and vans carry different loads. See our fleet for options.
- Do you track flights for airport trips? Flight tracking helps your pickup adjust if your flight is early or late. We track flights on prebooked airport transfers.
- Can you meet my accessibility needs? Ask about wheelchair-accessible vehicles, help at the door and child seats.
- How will the driver contact me? Share a mobile number, and confirm the pickup point.
- Do you accept my subsidy or card? If you use MPTP or NDIS funding, check how bookings work. See our MPTP Taxi Service page.
How Frankston Urban Taxi Answers
Here is how we handle the questions to ask before booking a taxi. We believe in clear answers. For example, we confirm your fare before you travel, we operate 24/7, and we track flights on airport transfers. We also welcome questions about child seats, wheelchair access and group bookings, because the right details lead to the right vehicle. If any answer is not clear, call us on 0432 190 000.
Red Flags to Watch For
Even with the questions to ask before booking a taxi in hand, watch for these warning signs:
- Refusing to give a price or estimate.
- No clear booking confirmation.
- Pressure to pay in an unusual way.
- A driver who cannot show identification.
- Vague answers about extras.
If something feels wrong, you can report it to Safe Transport Victoria. For a deeper comparison, read our guide to taxi vs rideshare.
A Simple Pre-Booking Checklist
- Write down your pickup, drop-off, date and time.
- Ask for the price and what it includes.
- Confirm the vehicle type for your group and bags.
- Keep your booking confirmation.
- Save the provider’s phone number.
How to Compare Quotes Fairly
If you are comparing providers, compare like with like. Use the same pickup point, time and vehicle type for every quote. Then check what each price includes, such as tolls, waiting time and payment surcharges. A low price with many extras can cost more than a clear fixed fare. Finally, call and ask your questions, because the way a provider answers tells you a lot.
Book with Confidence
Ready to ask us your questions? Call 0432 190 000 or use our online booking form. You can also browse our FAQ page first.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most important question to ask before booking a taxi?
Ask for the fare or an estimate upfront. Fares for booked trips are set by the operator, so confirming the price avoids surprises.
Are taxi drivers in Victoria accredited?
Yes. Commercial passenger vehicle drivers must be accredited, and Safe Transport Victoria oversees compliance.
Are there extra charges I should ask about?
Ask about tolls, airport fees, waiting time and payment surcharges. For taxis, the Essential Services Commission sets a maximum non-cash payment surcharge.
Can I ask for a child seat or wheelchair-accessible vehicle?
Yes. Ask when you book and share details, so the operator can confirm what is possible for your trip.
