As cash becomes less common, especially in cities like London, one question comes up often for locals and tourists alike: do taxis take card in the UK? Whether you’re hopping in a black cab, booking a private hire vehicle, or planning a trip from the airport, knowing your payment options can save time and stress.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know about paying by card when using a taxi in the UK, with a focus on London and surrounding areas. We’ll also cover what to expect from private taxi services and offer tips to help make your journeys smoother.
Yes, many taxis in the UK do accept card payments—but not all. It depends on the type of taxi, the area you’re in, and whether you’re booking in advance or hailing one on the street.
In major cities like London, Manchester, Birmingham, and Glasgow, it’s common for taxis to take both contactless and chip & PIN payments. In more rural areas, smaller taxi firms or independent drivers may still prefer cash, so it’s always best to check beforehand if you can.
To avoid surprises, booking with a private taxi service that clearly states its accepted payment methods is a smart choice—especially if you’re travelling to or from a train station or airport.
If you’re in London, you’re in luck. Since 2016, Transport for London (TfL) has made it a legal requirement for all black cabs (official London taxis) to accept card and contactless payments. This includes Visa, Mastercard, Apple Pay, and Google Pay. There should be no additional fees for paying by card either.
Private hire vehicles, such as minicabs booked through apps or local taxi companies, are not held to the same rule. However, most reputable operators do offer card payment options through their apps or onboard card readers.
So, when it comes to the question, do taxis in London take credit cards?—the answer is yes, especially if you’re using a licensed black cab or a reliable private hire service.
Card payments have become more widely accepted across the UK taxi industry. Here’s a breakdown of the most common options you’ll find:
Some taxis display card logos on their windows or dashboards to show what’s accepted. If it’s not clear, it’s perfectly fine to ask the driver before you get in.
For many people, card payment isn’t just a convenience—it’s a preference. Here are some advantages of choosing a taxi service that lets you pay by card:
Many private taxi services include card payment as standard and offer fixed quotes up front—ideal for airport runs, group travel, or planned day trips.
To make sure your journey goes smoothly, it’s always a good idea to plan ahead. Here are a few simple steps to help:
If you’re booking through a local taxi firm, many now offer online booking forms or apps where you can add your card details in advance for a cashless trip.
Private taxi services are a popular choice for reliable, comfortable, and flexible travel. Unlike taxis hailed on the street, private hire vehicles must be booked in advance, which gives you a chance to confirm your pickup, destination, and payment method beforehand.
These services are especially helpful for:
With private taxi firms, you can usually request card payment at the time of booking. Some allow you to pay online or over the phone, while others offer in-car machines for added convenience.
In smaller towns or rural parts of the UK, card acceptance can vary more widely. Not every cab will have a working machine, and signals for mobile payments can sometimes be patchy.
If you’re unsure, the best approach is to book ahead with a trusted local taxi company, check their payment methods in advance, and travel with peace of mind. This is especially useful if you’re catching a train, heading to an appointment, or travelling late at night.
The way we pay for things has changed, and the UK’s taxi industry is adapting too. From black cabs in London to local private hire vehicles across the country, most taxis now accept card payments—making travel easier, safer, and more convenient.
So next time you’re wondering, do taxis take card, the answer is likely yes—especially if you’re in a city or booking with a professional private service. Whether you’re travelling from home, heading to the airport or exploring a new area, knowing your payment options helps you stay in control and enjoy the ride.
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