Q&A for How to Start a Taxi Company

Return to Full Article

Search
Add New Question
  • Question
    Is it possible to start with just a single car?
    Community Answer
    As long as you can cater to your clients' needs, then the number of cars doesn't matter.
  • Question
    Were can I get a permit license?
    Michael Womack
    Community Answer
    Your town business authority. I got mine from the city clerk at the chamber of commerce.
  • Question
    Is it possible to start a taxi association with its own route if I do not have the necessary funds, and how would I gather the capital?
    Michael Womack
    Community Answer
    Yes. Some franchises only need 10K to start up, and that comes with corporate training, tax help, business advice, etc. If you cannot produce enough money to start up the business (insurance, supplies, licenses, etc.), I suggest you apply for a loan. A word of caution: have all the paperwork complete before speaking with a loan official. If you forget to obtain something like an EIN for employees or prove intended insurance to protect the business after opening, the bank or loan company may deny you before the interview has begun.
  • Question
    How many cars is optimal for a new taxi company?
    Michael Womack
    Community Answer
    An "optimal number" is dependent on many factors. Do some research to determine whether your community will support more than one vehicle, or whether another business already does or intends to do the same business. Speak with the community. Basically, discover the demand in the area to adjust for intended growth.
  • Question
    How can I get the fares for all journeys?
    Michael Womack
    Community Answer
    A taxi vehicle will have a meter to tally the fare. You show the customer the fare upon arrival at the destination, and the customer pays you.
  • Question
    How do I know how much I make?
    Community Answer
    Simply calculate your revenue (cash received from customers) and subtract expenses (gas, car washes, maintenance, etc.). That will give you your profit total.
  • Question
    Can fifty 22-seat minibuses make me a millionaire?
    Community Answer
    It really depends on the demand for your minibuses and your business structure.
  • Question
    How can I start a luxury taxi service? Would it be very profitable if I'm living next to a big city?
    Michael Womack
    Community Answer
    Your questions require more than two answers. The article on this wikiHow page gives all the rudimentary steps to form a taxi business entity. The luxury designation depends on you. Advertising, quality customer service, community reputation, local business competitors, etc. are all aspects to consider. Make sure you've read this article, and then do some more research on your own.
  • Question
    How much does it cost to start a taxi company?
    Community Answer
    I would recommend having at least $100k to cover all potential startup costs.
  • Question
    What licenses and permissions do I need to start a taxi company?
    Michael Womack
    Community Answer
    Your local business authority can answer this question. Here in California we have the Board of Equalization. I suggest you contact your chamber of commerce or city hall. They should be able to direct you.
  • Question
    Where do you I get the licenses for a cab company?
    Community Answer
    Contact any local government office or start an internet search for a state office handling business licenses.
  • Question
    Can someone drive their personal vehicle for my taxi company?
    Michael Womack
    Community Answer
    No. The vehicle is used for commercial purposes instead of personal. This requires a new classification from the DMV and a CDL from the driver, plus insurance for the new vehicle, which would come from your business.
  • Question
    Approximately how much money do I need to start a taxi company?
    Michael Womack
    Community Answer
    There is no set price, unless you buy in to a franchise. Startup cost depends on your ability to meet customer needs at opening.
Ask a Question

      Return to Full Article