Taxi service in Toronto is extensive, with cabs servicing all major areas and neighborhoods in Toronto. Taxis can be found in waiting areas outside all major airports, train stations, hotels, and sports & entertainment complexes. It is important to select the taxi at the front of the line in these taxi stands, as a typical gesture of courtesy.
Expats needing taxi service may either call the service directly for pickup at their address, or hail the cab from the street. When hailing a cab, be sure to look at the sign on top of the cab. If the light in the sign is on, this means the taxi is on duty and available for passengers. If the main light is off, the taxi driver is either off duty, or transporting another customer.
Toronto taxis generally charge a $4 pick up fee, followed by an addition fee of $1.45 per kilometer traveled. Remember that, if the driver fails to start the metre when your ride starts, the ride is free. While fares are usually charged by the kilometer, high frequency trips, such as to the airport, are often charged at a flat rate.
It is typical custom to tip taxi drivers in Toronto by rounding up to the next dollar, then adding $2 to $5, depending on the level of service and distance traveled.
Toronto has many taxi companies from which to choose. Here is a list of the main companies to get you started. Click the link of each company for contact information and additional policies.
Beck Taxi
Royal Taxi
City Taxi
Diamond Taxi
Co-op Cabs
Kingsborough Taxi
