Taxis in Los Angeles: A Complete Visitor Guide
Los Angeles is a sprawling metropolis built around the car, and taxis here mean longer distances and more variable journey times than in compact cities like New York. The licensed cab fleet is regulated by the city, but rideshare dominates day-to-day travel. Travellers still find taxis at LAX, hotels, and major tourist hubs, and they remain a reliable option for late-night airport runs and trips into West Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Santa Monica and downtown.
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Fare structure
Los Angeles taxis operate on a city-set meter. The flag-drop covers the start of the trip and the first eighth of a mile, then the meter increments by short distance segments and by waiting time when the cab is stopped or in slow traffic. Surcharges include an airport pickup fee for trips originating at LAX. Flat fares apply to certain destinations from LAX.
Quick fare estimator for Los Angeles. 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 Los Angeles taxi trade at the airport. Here is what to expect on the typical airport-to-city run:
| Airport | Distance | Time | Approx fare |
|---|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles International (LAX) | 17 mi | 35 min | $60 flat to downtown LA |
| Bob Hope (Burbank) (BUR) | 14 mi | 30 min | $45-60 metered to Hollywood |
| Long Beach (LGB) | 22 mi | 35 min | $70-90 metered to downtown LA |
Tips for the airport run
- LAX has a flat $60 fare to downtown LA - confirm with the dispatcher at the taxi stand.
- Airport pickup adds a small surcharge to the meter total.
- LA distances are deceptive: a 10-mile cross-town trip can take 45 minutes in traffic, so the time-based portion of the fare matters here more than in most cities.
- Tipping at 15 to 20 percent is standard, in line with US norms.
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Booking and hailing
Below are the main licensed operators and apps used in Los Angeles. Booking through one of these is the safest option, and ensures the driver is properly insured and licensed:
- LA Yellow Cab
- Bell Cab
- United Independent Taxi
- Beverly Hills Cab
- Curb app
- the city's Taxi LA dispatch
Tipping in Los Angeles
Tipping norms vary between countries. In Los Angeles, 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 Los Angeles are honest, but the same handful of scams appear in every major city. Knowing them keeps you out of trouble:
- Unlicensed bandit cabs at LAX touting for fares - always use the official taxi stand outside the terminal.
- Drivers claiming traffic forces a longer route. Cross-check on a maps app before agreeing.
- Surprise surcharges for luggage or passengers when none are due. Licensed LA meters do not add per-bag fees.
Getting to the main attractions
The most common taxi routes in Los Angeles go to and from the main visitor sights: Hollywood Walk of Fame, Beverly Hills, Santa Monica Pier, Griffith Observatory, Dodger Stadium, Universal Studios. 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 LAX to downtown LA?
There is a flat fare of $60 from LAX to downtown Los Angeles, set by the city. Add an airport surcharge, any tolls, and a 15 to 20 percent tip.
Are taxis or Uber cheaper in LA?
Rideshare is usually cheaper than a metered taxi in LA, sometimes significantly so. Yellow cabs win on predictability during airport surge and major events.
Where can I find a taxi in Hollywood?
Major hotels, the Hollywood and Highland complex, and the Walk of Fame area have taxi stands or quick dispatch. You can also book by phone or via the Curb app.
Do LA taxis accept credit cards?
Licensed LA cabs are required to accept credit cards. Confirm with the driver at the start of the journey.
Is there a flat fare from LAX to Disneyland?
Disneyland is in Anaheim, in Orange County, and a metered fare applies. Expect around $120 to $160 depending on traffic, plus a tip.
Can I share a taxi at LAX?
LAX offers a shared-ride van system at marked stands, which is cheaper for solo travellers but takes longer because of multiple drop-offs.
Local taxi companies
The Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles Department of Transportation - Taxicab Commission for the official tariff.