A Step-by-Step Guide to Yellow Cabs and Green Cabs
New York City’s taxi system is one of the most convenient ways to get around the city. Both Yellow Cabs and Green Cabs offer safe, regulated, and easy-to-use street-hail transportation across different parts of NYC.
If you are new to the city—or just want a refresher—this guide explains how to hail a taxi, what to expect during the ride, how fares work, and what your rights are as a passenger.
Step 1: Know Which Taxi to Choose
New York City has two official street-hail taxi types:
Yellow Cabs
The classic NYC taxis
May pick up passengers anywhere in the city
Most common in Manhattan
Available at airports and major taxi stands
Green Cabs
Also called Boro Taxis
Pick up passengers in:
Brooklyn
Queens
Bronx
Staten Island
Upper Manhattan
Not allowed to pick up street hails in Midtown or Downtown Manhattan
Both taxi types:
Are licensed by the NYC Taxi and Limousine Commission (TLC)
Use regulated meters
Accept cash and card payments
Step 2: Find an Available Taxi
Look for a taxi with its rooftop light illuminated.
Light on → Taxi is available
Light off → Taxi is occupied or off duty
Stand at the curb where vehicles are allowed to stop.
Step 3: Hail the Taxi
To hail a taxi:
Stand at the curb
Look for an available taxi
Raise your hand clearly
The driver will pull over where it is safe and legal
Once the taxi stops, enter from the curbside door.
Step 4: Tell the Driver Your Destination
After entering the taxi:
Clearly state your destination
You may give:
An address
An intersection
A well-known landmark
Drivers are required to take you to any legal destination within their service area.
Step 5: Follow the Meter During the Ride
All official NYC taxis use TLC-regulated taximeters.
The fare is based on:
Base fare
Distance traveled
Time spent in traffic
Night or peak-hour surcharges
Tolls where applicable
The meter will display the running fare throughout the trip.
Step 6: Pay at the End of the Trip
At the end of the ride, you may pay using:
Cash
Credit card
Debit card
Contactless payment
Drivers must accept card payments and may not demand cash-only fares.
You may request a printed or digital receipt.
Airport Taxi Tips
If you are traveling to or from an airport:
Yellow Cabs
Available at official taxi stands at:
JFK Airport
LaGuardia Airport
Newark Airport
Offer an official flat fare between JFK and Manhattan
Green Cabs
May take passengers to airports
Cannot pick up at airport taxi stands
Always use metered fares
Basic Taxi Etiquette
To ensure a smooth ride:
Enter and exit on the curbside
Fasten your seatbelt
Be clear and polite when giving directions
Have your payment method ready at the end
Tipping is customary in NYC taxi service.
Typical tip:
15–20% of the fare
Passenger Rights in NYC Taxis
As a taxi passenger, you have the right to:
A metered fare
A safe, licensed vehicle
Payment by cash or card
A receipt upon request
Service without discrimination
Drivers may not refuse passengers based on:
Destination
Short trip distance
Payment method
Personal characteristics
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Entering a taxi with the roof light off
Accepting rides from unlicensed drivers
Negotiating fares with street-hail taxis
Forgetting to check the meter
Always use official, licensed taxis.
When to Choose a Taxi in NYC
Taxis are ideal when you:
Need quick, door-to-door transportation
Are traveling with luggage
Are heading to or from an airport
Want a regulated, metered fare
Prefer not to use public transportation
Learn More About NYC Taxis
For more detailed information:
Yellow Cabs in NYC
Green Cabs in NYC
Yellow Cabs vs Green Cabs
Taxi Fares & Pricing
Passenger Rights & Regulations
Summary: Riding a Taxi in NYC
Riding a taxi in New York City is simple:
Choose the right taxi type
Hail an available cab
State your destination
Watch the meter
Pay at the end
With licensed drivers, regulated fares, and citywide availability, taxis remain one of the easiest ways to travel across NYC.