Taxi drivers, ride-hailing drivers, and chauffeurs drive passengers to and from the places they need to go— whether they’re in a big hurry, or prefer to arrive in style. They must know their local area in detail, including popular destinations, emergency services, and the routes that best avoid rush hour traffic. Drivers follow local regulations, and keep tabs on weather and road conditions that affect driving. Taxi drivers pick up passengers from taxi lines at airports and hotels, or respond to dispatcher calls to pick up a customer. They charge based on a meter that runs while driving, and take breaks between passengers. Ride-hailing drivers set their own hours, and use their personal vehicles to pick up passengers who request service through a smartphone app. Chauffeurs drive limousines or private cars to take passengers on prescheduled trips. They may work for one person, a business or government agency, or drive a large hotel van. Paratransit drivers operate vehicles equipped with wheelchair lifts and other equipment to accommodate elderly passengers, or those with disabilities. Though many taxi drivers and chauffeurs work full time, part-time driving is not uncommon. Schedules may include late nights, early mornings, weekends, and holidays. Drivers experience the stress of heavy traffic, and must load heavy baggage. Drivers must have a regular driver’s license, but there are no formal education requirements… on-the-job training may be provided. Some positions also require a taxi or limousine license.
What they do:
Drive automobiles, vans, or limousines to transport passengers. May occasionally carry cargo. Includes hearse drivers.
On the job, you would:
Test vehicle equipment, such as lights, brakes, horns, or windshield wipers, to ensure proper operation.
Follow relevant safety regulations and state laws governing vehicle operation and ensure that passengers follow safety regulations.
Notify dispatchers or company mechanics of vehicle problems.
Transportation
movement of people or goods by air, rail, sea, or road
Business
customer service
Safety and Government
public safety and security
law and government
Arts and Humanities
English language
Basic Skills
listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions
keeping track of how well people and/or groups are doing in order to make improvements
Problem Solving
noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it
Controlled Movement
quickly change the controls of a machine, car, truck or boat
use your arms and/or legs together while sitting, standing, or lying down
Vision
see details that are far away
see details up close
Attention
do two or more things at the same time
pay attention to something without being distracted
Verbal
listen and understand what people say
People interested in this work like activities that include practical, hands-on problems and solutions.
They do well at jobs that need:
Self Control
Cooperation
Integrity
Attention to Detail
Concern for Others
Dependability
You might use software like this on the job:
Mobile location based services software
Digital Dispatch
Easy Dispatch
Data base user interface and query software
Actsoft Comet
Penchant Software dispatchOffice
Spreadsheet software
Microsoft Excel
high school diploma/GED or some college usually needed
Get started on your career:
New job opportunities are very likely in the future.