Taxis in Las Vegas: A Complete Visitor Guide
Las Vegas is one of the most taxi-friendly cities in the United States. The Strip is lined with hotel-casino taxi stands, every major resort has a dispatcher on hand, and Harry Reid International Airport runs an extremely well-organised taxi queue that processes thousands of arrivals an hour. Tourists rely on cabs to bounce between casinos, get to off-Strip restaurants, and run out to the Hoover Dam or Red Rock Canyon.
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Fare structure
Las Vegas taxis are regulated by the Nevada Taxicab Authority. Meters use a flag-drop plus distance and time. Surcharges apply for pickups at the airport and during high-demand periods. Flat-fare zones can apply between Harry Reid airport and certain Strip resorts depending on time and operator.
Quick fare estimator for Las Vegas. Enter your trip distance and approximate travel time. The result is a rough range based on typical meter rates - confirm with the driver or operator before you travel.
Airport transfers
Most visitors meet the Las Vegas taxi trade at the airport. Here is what to expect on the typical airport-to-city run:
| Airport | Distance | Time | Approx fare |
|---|---|---|---|
| Harry Reid International (formerly McCarran) (LAS) | 3 mi | 10 min | $20-30 to mid-Strip |
| North Las Vegas (VGT) | 12 mi | 25 min | Mainly general aviation; metered fare around $30-40 |
Tips for the airport run
- From Harry Reid airport, ask the driver to avoid the tunnel unless you are headed to North Strip or downtown.
- Taxis use the meter by law - flat fares should only be offered as an upfront published rate.
- Cash and card both work; an extra fee applies for card transactions.
- Tip at 15 to 20 percent.
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Booking and hailing
Below are the main licensed operators and apps used in Las Vegas. Booking through one of these is the safest option, and ensures the driver is properly insured and licensed:
- Yellow Checker Star
- Desert Cab
- Western Cab
- Whittlesea Blue Cab
- Frias Transportation
Tipping in Las Vegas
Tipping norms vary between countries. In Las Vegas, a tip of 15 to 20 percent of the metered fare is customary - in line with US conventions. Tips on card readers usually offer quick-select buttons.
Common scams to watch for
Most licensed drivers in Las Vegas are honest, but the same handful of scams appear in every major city. Knowing them keeps you out of trouble:
- Long-hauling through the airport tunnel - the route via Tropicana or Russell Road is shorter to the south Strip; the tunnel adds time and miles.
- Offering a 'no meter, flat fare' from the airport that is significantly higher than the metered price.
- Recommending an off-Strip 'private show' or club for a kickback - politely decline.
Getting to the main attractions
The most common taxi routes in Las Vegas go to and from the main visitor sights: The Bellagio, the Strip, Fremont Street, the Sphere, Allegiant Stadium, Red Rock Canyon. Distances within the central district are short and most fares run under $20 if there is no traffic - but bear in mind that journeys taking a long time in heavy traffic will rack up extra cost on the time-based portion of the meter.
Frequently asked questions
How much is a taxi from Las Vegas airport to the Strip?
$20 to $30 to mid-Strip casinos like Bellagio or Caesars Palace, plus the airport fee and tip. North Strip is a few dollars more.
Should I take a taxi or Uber in Las Vegas?
Taxis have a clear advantage at the airport because the queue is fast and the meter is predictable. Around the Strip, rideshare is often cheaper but pickup zones at the casinos are at the back of the property.
Are Vegas taxis 24 hours?
Yes, taxis run all night, which is essential in a city that does not sleep.
How much should I tip a Vegas taxi driver?
15 to 20 percent of the fare. If a doorman or bell captain hails the cab for you, a dollar or two is customary.
Can I pay by card in a Las Vegas taxi?
Yes, but there is a small credit card surcharge added to the metered fare.
Can a taxi take me to the Hoover Dam?
Yes, but it is a 30 mile run and the metered fare each way is substantial. Most visitors book a tour or a flat-rate town car for Hoover Dam trips.
Local taxi companies
The Las Vegas taxi trade is made up of dozens of licensed firms in addition to the major names listed above. If you operate a licensed taxi or private hire company in Las Vegas and would like to be listed in this section, you can submit your business for inclusion.
A note on accuracy: Taxi rates change. The figures above are intended as rough guides only. Always confirm the meter rate or flat fare with your driver before setting off, and refer to the Nevada Taxicab Authority for the official tariff.