Taxi applications have revolutionized the transportation market, impacting the earnings and working costs of taxi drivers. Customers appreciate them for the ability to quickly place orders and attractive fare prices. Employees also value the benefits of Bolt Uber and FREENOW – for many, working as a driver is their main source of income. Are you wondering how much a taxi driver can earn? In this article, we answer the most frequently asked questions. Discover the current rates and learn what requirements need to be met to start working with these platforms.
How Does a Taxi Driver’s Job Look?
The profession of a taxi driver requires not only the ability to drive a vehicle but also an excellent knowledge of the city and communication skills. A taxi driver must be ready for various challenges, such as dealing with traffic, finding the shortest routes, and ensuring passenger comfort and safety. The job often involves flexible working hours, which can be both an advantage and a disadvantage. Taxi drivers must also be prepared to work in different weather conditions and at various times of the day and night. Interpersonal skills are also important in this profession, as drivers often have direct contact with customers and must handle various situations.
How Much Does a Taxi Driver Earn?
The average earnings of a taxi driver are about 2000–3000 PLN per month. Taxi drivers earn different amounts depending on various factors. A driver’s earnings depend on location, the number of rides, and rates per kilometer. When talking about the average, it should be noted that most employees drive less than 20 hours a week. Drivers who decide to work “full-time” can expect earnings of around 5000 PLN per month. Rates can also vary depending on the chosen company. Check how working for Uber, Bolt, and FREENOW looks!
Uber Driver Earnings
Uber is one of the most popular apps offering rides across Poland. According to data collected by the company, an Uber taxi driver can earn up to 40 PLN per hour. Uber regularly encourages employees to be more active by offering attractive contests, bonuses, and incentives. For example, a worker may receive a weekly bonus for completing a specific number of rides. The amount earned from rides must be reduced by expenses related to vehicle maintenance – insurance, inspections, and fuel.
Tips from customers should also be added to the taxi driver’s earnings. Passengers can express their satisfaction with the service using cash or cashless methods through the app. The tip goes entirely to the driver – Uber does not take a commission on it.
Requirements for Uber Drivers
To start working with Uber, you only need to have:
- At least 20 years old
- A driving license and a minimum of one year of driving experience
- Medical examinations and psychological tests
- A certificate of no criminal record
- A photo.
For more details, read the article: Uber earnings – how much does an Uber driver earn?
How Much Does a Bolt Driver Earn?
Earnings on Bolt taxi look promising. The Estonian company has rapidly expanded its operations in Poland. Notably, in Łódź, Wrocław, and Poznań, new drivers have a guaranteed income. Bolt is introducing this form of settlement in other cities as well. Warsaw, Kraków, Tricity, and the Silesian Agglomeration will soon join the aforementioned cities. Guaranteed income means greater flexibility in working hours and the potential for higher earnings.
What else distinguishes Bolt from other apps? Primarily, the ability to accept multiple orders in a row. This means that while completing one order, you can immediately accept another. Working as a Bolt driver, you must remember that a taxi driver with a low average rating in the app or negative comments has fewer chances of completing subsequent rides. The average income for drivers collaborating with this company is 40 PLN per hour.
Requirements for Bolt Drivers
If you want to collaborate with Bolt, you must have:
- A category B driving license
- At least 18 years old
- Current medical examinations and psychological tests confirming no contraindications to work
- A current certificate of no criminal record
- A photo for the app.
For more details, read the article: Bolt earnings – how much does a Bolt driver earn?
How Much Can You Earn on TAXI FREENOW?
It’s time to discover the benefits of the third popular ride-hailing app – FREENOW. The company boasts that its drivers earn an average of 50 PLN net per hour of work. Similar to Uber, the FREENOW app allows for an attractive bonus system. The total bonuses can equal the earnings from rides. The minimum weekly bonus is 450 PLN.
FREENOW also has the lowest commission among mobile apps – 20% net. The company’s global recognition means that drivers often handle rides from the airport. The brand also collaborates with many prestigious hotels and restaurants in Poland.
Requirements for FREENOW Drivers
To become a FREENOW driver, you must have:
- At least 18 years old
- A valid driving license
- A certificate of no criminal record
- Current medical examinations and psychological tests.
If you’re interested in working for FREENOW and plan to drive your car, you must adapt it to taxi requirements. Therefore, it will be necessary to purchase a taximeter and a taxi light. The vehicle must also have valid inspections. The requirements are as follows:
- Segment C (well-maintained, max. 15 years old)
- Segment B “station wagon” (max. 10 years old)
- Segment B “non-station wagon,” only the latest model (max. 5 years old).
The Process of Obtaining a Taxi License
To become a taxi driver, it is necessary to obtain a taxi license. This process involves several steps. First, the candidate must have a category B driving license and be at least 21 years old. Then, they must undergo medical examinations and psychological tests confirming no contraindications to performing the taxi driver profession. The next step is obtaining a certificate of no criminal record. After meeting these requirements, the candidate must apply for a taxi license at the appropriate city or municipal office. In some cities, it is also necessary to pass an exam on the city’s geography and regulations regarding domestic road transport. Once the license is obtained, the taxi driver can start working in the profession.
Costs of Being a Taxi Driver
Being a taxi driver comes with various costs that can affect final earnings. The main expenses include fuel costs, vehicle operation, and taxi maintenance. Taxi drivers must also account for costs related to vehicle insurance, technical inspections, and potential repairs. Additionally, taxi drivers affiliated with ride-hailing apps, such as Uber, Bolt, or FREENOW, must consider the commissions taken by these companies. It is also worth noting the possibility of VAT deduction, which can help minimize the costs of running the business.
Fuel and Operating Costs
Fuel costs represent a significant portion of expenses for every taxi driver. Depending on the vehicle model and driving style, these costs can vary. It is important for a taxi driver to regularly monitor fuel consumption and try to minimize it through economical driving. In addition to fuel, taxi drivers must also consider vehicle operating costs, such as oil changes, filters, tires, and other routine repairs. Regular technical inspections are essential to ensure the safety of both the driver and passengers.
Taxi Maintenance Costs
Maintaining a taxi is another vital element of a taxi driver’s expenses. This includes not only regular technical inspections but also vehicle insurance, which is mandatory for every taxi driver. Furthermore, taxi drivers must ensure that their vehicle is equipped correctly, such as having a taximeter, payment terminal, and taxi light. It is also important to consider the costs associated with potential repairs that may arise during the vehicle’s operation. All these expenses impact a taxi driver’s final earnings; therefore, it is essential for taxi drivers to strive to minimize costs and take care of their vehicles.
Agreement with a Settlement Partner
The easiest way to start working as a taxi driver is to sign a contract with a trusted fleet partner. Collaboration with a settlement partner also allows for VAT deductions, which can significantly reduce operating costs. To become a taxi driver, you do not need to establish your own business – just contact us! Employees of Avalon Logistics Group will guide you through the recruitment process and help you choose the most advantageous option. As a settlement partner for Bolt, Uber, and FREENOW, we will handle your paperwork and settle your earnings. Moreover, we have a modern fleet of vehicles – if you do not own a car, you will be able to use our vehicles.
