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Taxi or private chauffeur: what are the differences?
When choosing private transport, it is common to weigh up
a taxi and a private chauffeur (known as a VTC in France).
Although both transport passengers, they differ in how
they operate, the rules that apply, comfort and cost. This
article reviews the characteristics of each to help you
understand the differences and choose according to your
needs.
1. Definition and legal framework
Taxis: a regulated activity
Taxis are subject to strict rules set by public
authorities. Each taxi must have a licence, generally paid
for and limited in number in each city. Taxis can
circulate and pick up passengers in the street or at
designated ranks without advance booking.
They can also be identified by their illuminated ‘TAXI’
sign and meter, which shows the amount due based on
distance and waiting time, with possible return-to-base
charges. Different rates can apply according to the
journey.
Private chauffeur: a pre-booked service
VTCs (French private hire vehicles with a chauffeur) offer
private transport only by reservation. Unlike taxis, they
cannot wait for customers on public roads or pick up
passengers without a booking.
VTC operators must be registered and meet strict
requirements for training, vehicles and insurance. The
journey price is generally agreed in advance, giving the
customer clarity.
Services Chauffeurs Occasionnels explains.
How are prices calculated?
Taxis, VTCs and Uber do not use the same pricing method,
which can significantly affect the final cost of a
journey.
Taxi pricing: a regulated schedule
Taxi prices are set by the prefecture and comprise several
elements:
-
Initial charge: approximately €2.60, whatever the
journey. (source: Fédération Nationale du Taxi, 2023)
-
Distance rate: between €1.06 and €1.58 per kilometre,
depending on the time and area.
-
Hourly rate: approximately €36 per hour when waiting or
in heavy traffic.
-
Night and public holiday surcharge: up to 50% above the
standard rate.
- Fixed rates for certain routes.
These prices give customers predictability and help avoid
surprises.
VTC pricing: a price known in advance
VTCs apply a fixed price based on several factors:
- Journey distance and duration
- Vehicle type chosen (economy, premium, van, etc.)
- Booking time and day
- Platform used (Uber, Bolt, Kapten, etc.)
This pricing can often be more competitive than a taxi for
long distances, but chauffeur availability may be limited
during periods of high demand.
Uber pricing: flexibility that can cost more
Uber uses dynamic pricing, with prices varying according
to supply and demand. Base fares are generally attractive,
but during busy periods a surcharge of up to 300% may
apply. The price is calculated as follows:
- Base fare: €1 (UFC-Que Choisir, 2022)
- Distance rate: €1.10/km
- Time rate: €0.30/min
-
High-demand surcharge: up to 3 times the standard rate
This pricing can make Uber less attractive than a taxi at
peak times, particularly during events or public transport
strikes.
