Taxis in Washington DC: A Complete Visitor Guide
Washington DC has a regulated taxi fleet overseen by the District's Department of For-Hire Vehicles. After years on a zone-based pricing system, DC moved to time-and-distance metering, which makes fares predictable and comparable to rideshare. Cabs are easy to find at Union Station, the major hotels, Ronald Reagan and Dulles airports, and around the National Mall.
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Fare structure
DC taxis use a time-and-distance meter with a small drop, a per-mile rate, and a waiting-time rate. There is a fuel surcharge that may be added when fuel prices spike, and a small snow emergency surcharge during declared snow events. Cross-state trips to Virginia or Maryland may be subject to a different rate structure.
Quick fare estimator for Washington DC. 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 Washington DC taxi trade at the airport. Here is what to expect on the typical airport-to-city run:
| Airport | Distance | Time | Approx fare |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ronald Reagan National (DCA) | 5 mi | 15 min | $15-22 metered to downtown DC |
| Washington Dulles (IAD) | 26 mi | 40 min | $60-80 metered to downtown DC |
| Baltimore/Washington (BWI) (BWI) | 33 mi | 50 min | $90-120 metered to downtown DC |
Tips for the airport run
- Reagan National (DCA) is the closest airport and a quick, cheap taxi ride into the city.
- Confirm whether the driver is licensed in DC or in Virginia/Maryland if your trip crosses state lines.
- Tolls on the Dulles Greenway and tunnel routes are passed on to the passenger.
- Tip 15 to 20 percent.
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Booking and hailing
Below are the main licensed operators and apps used in Washington DC. Booking through one of these is the safest option, and ensures the driver is properly insured and licensed:
- Yellow Cab of DC
- Diamond Cab
- Capitol Cab
- Curb app
- DC Taxi app
Tipping in Washington DC
Tipping norms vary between countries. In Washington DC, 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 Washington DC are honest, but the same handful of scams appear in every major city. Knowing them keeps you out of trouble:
- Out-of-jurisdiction pickups at Dulles or BWI without the agreed rate - confirm before setting off.
- Snow emergency surcharge applied when no snow emergency has been declared.
- Refusal of credit card payment - all DC cabs must accept cards.
Getting to the main attractions
The most common taxi routes in Washington DC go to and from the main visitor sights: the National Mall, the US Capitol, the White House, Georgetown, Smithsonian museums, Arlington National Cemetery. 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 Reagan National Airport to downtown DC?
Expect $15 to $22 on the meter from DCA to downtown DC, plus a tip. Total around $20 to $28.
How much is a cab from Dulles to downtown DC?
$60 to $80 on the meter from IAD to downtown, plus tolls if applicable. Total around $80 to $100 with tip.
Can DC taxis cross into Virginia and Maryland?
Yes, but the rate structure may change once across the border. Confirm before setting off.
Do DC cabs take credit cards?
Yes, all DC cabs must accept credit cards.
Are taxis safe at DC train stations?
Yes, the taxi stand at Union Station is well-managed. Avoid drivers who approach you inside the station.
How much should I tip a DC taxi driver?
15 to 20 percent of the metered fare.
Local taxi companies
The Washington DC 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 Washington DC 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 District of Columbia Department of For-Hire Vehicles for the official tariff.