Taxis in Paris: Overview

Paris taxis don’t have a unique vehicle color, but they can be easily identified by the “TAXI Parisien” roof light, the fare poster on the rear window, the black plate on the front side with the parking number in red, as well as the taximeter and the taxi license displayed inside the cab.

Overall, taxis are a fair alternative to the efficient Paris public transportation network. Although they are noticeably pricier than buses, trains, and metro lines, they provide comfortable, direct, and door-to-door transfer services to the exact destination of the passenger.

So, what are the main pros and cons of using a taxi in Paris?

Taxis ProsTaxis Cons
Easy to find, especially at one of the 500 official Paris taxi ranks.Travelers choosing unlicensed individual taxis often get overcharged.
Safe and regulated transfer services.Traffic conditions affect the final fare.
Drop-off at the exact desired location.During peak hours or heavy rain, taxis may be hard to find.
Useful for travelers who don’t speak French and feel stressed about public transport.Most taxi drivers don’t speak English well (or at all).
Extremely convenient for heavy luggage or traveling with children.

Paris Taxi Fares

Paris taxis are metered, meaning that fares are calculated based on distance and travel time, except for airport transfers to central Paris, which have fixed prices.

All taxi rates are regulated by the French government, and every licensed taxi must apply them. The starting fare depends on the pickup location but cannot exceed 4.40€ / 4.40$, while the minimum fare for any ride is 8€ / 8$, regardless of distance.

After that, three different rates apply:

  • Rate A: 1.27€ / 1.27$ per km – Waiting time: 41.06€ / 41.06$ per hour
  • Rate B: 1.61€ / 1.61$ per km – Waiting time: 50.52€ / 50.52$ per hour
  • Rate C: 1.74€ / 1.74$ per km – Waiting time: 42.10€ / 42.10$ per hour

The rates are applied as follows:

Paris ZonesRate ARate BRate C
Paris Urban AreaMon–Sat: 10:00 am – 05:00 pmMon–Sat: 05:00 pm – 10:00 am
Sun: 07:00 am – 12:00 pm
Holidays: day & night		Sun: 12:00 pm – 07:00 am
Paris Suburban Area–Mon–Sat: 07:00 am – 07:00 pmMon–Sat: 07:00 pm – 07:00 am
Sun & Holidays: day & night
Outside Suburban Areas––All days & times

There is no extra charge for up to 4 passengers. From the 5th passenger onward, a fee of 5.50€ / 5.50$ per person applies.

One piece of luggage is free of charge. Any additional item weighing more than 5 kg (including strollers and large sports equipment) costs 1€ / 1$. Wheelchairs are always transported free of charge.

Called taxis are subject to an approach fee:

  • Immediate pickup: 4€ / 4$
  • Advance booking: 7€ / 7$

This approach fare applies to urban rides only. Outside Paris and its inner suburbs, the taximeter starts running from the moment the driver begins heading to the pickup location.

Our tip: Airport taxi rides to central Paris have fixed prices: 56€ / 56$ to the Right Bank and 65€ / 65$ to the Left Bank.

Paris Taxis: Payment Methods

Paris taxi drivers are legally required to accept bank card and contactless payments. However, some may claim their card terminal is not working. For this reason, cash is often preferred.

Our tip: Always carry small euro bills. Lack of change is a common excuse and can lead to overcharging.

How to Hire a Taxi in Paris

Hailing a taxi on the street is now allowed in Paris, provided there is no taxi rank within 50 meters. You can stop a taxi by raising your arm or calling out “Taxi”.

A driver may legally refuse a ride if:

  • the passenger appears intoxicated
  • the destination is outside the Paris taxi service area (Paris + departments 92, 93, 94)
  • a pet is present (except guide dogs)
  • items may damage or soil the vehicle interior
  • a taxi rank is located within 50 meters

You can also find taxis at one of the 500 official taxi ranks located near major transport hubs and central areas. Taxi stands are marked by a blue sign with the word “taxi”.

Some taxi ranks are equipped with phones allowing passengers to call a nearby taxi if none are available.

Finally, taxis can be booked by phone or via apps, though an approach fee of 4€ / 4$ (immediate) or 7€ / 7$ (scheduled) applies.

Paris Taxi to CDG Airport

Taking a taxi from Paris to Charles de Gaulle Airport is a fast and reliable option. Even though more than 15,000 taxis operate in the city, pre-booking is recommended during peak hours.

Under normal traffic conditions, the journey takes 45–60 minutes. Fixed fares apply:

  • Right Bank (Rive Droite): 56€ / 56$
  • Left Bank (Rive Gauche): 65€ / 65$

Tips & Hints about Paris Taxis

  • Always check that the taximeter is running correctly.
  • Ask for a receipt at the end of the ride.
  • Small lights under the “Taxi” sign indicate the active rate (A, B, or C).
  • Tipping is optional but appreciated.
  • Never trust unlicensed drivers approaching you.
  • Most drivers don’t speak English — keep your address written down.
  • During rush hours or heavy rain, booking in advance can save time.
  • The taximeter starts at the scheduled pickup time for booked taxis.
  • You can choose your taxi at city ranks, but not at airports or train stations.
  • Taxi valets are often present at airports and major stations.
  • If you need a child seat, pre-book or bring your own.