How do you recognise a taxi in Edinburgh?    
Although most taxis in Edinburgh are either the easily identifiable LTI TXs or Metrocabs which are purpose built taxis, the recent lowering of standards to accommodate the licensing of converted vans means you MUST check that it is a legally licensed taxi BEFORE entering. The vehicles pictured above are the only taxis allowed in Edinburgh.
All taxis are strictly regulated by the City of Edinburgh Council, who license them, and are tested to a very high standard at the Taxi Examination Centre operated by the Police on behalf of the Council.
Every taxi driver in Edinburgh has also been rigorously checked for suitability and has passed a strict "knowledge of Edinburgh" examination to prove that he, or she, can take passengers anywhere within Edinburgh using the most practicable route. Saloon cars or multi-purpose vehicles are not allowed to be used as taxis.
Taxis can be hired at taxi ranks which are clearly marked in many streets or at rail stations, bus station, shopping centres, night clubs, restaurants or simply hailed in the street. Taxis can also be booked from your hotel, home or business by telephoning any of the radio taxi companies.
TAXI fares currently start from £1.50 (£2.50 at night) for the first 450 metres or 90 seconds and go up in increments of 25 pence for each additional 225 metres or 45 seconds becoming slightly cheaper after 2250 metres, more than two passengers are charged at 20p each, a telephone booking fee of 60p is also added when appropriate. Over the Christmas period and New Years period, approximately fare and a half is charged (Taximeters are programmed for this, so the correct fare will still be displayed on the taximeter) . Fares which start, or end, outwith the licensed area may be subject to a surcharge, or be a fixed price. As this fare is "by agreement," it must (and will) be advised, prior to the start of the journey. Click here for the full tariff details
GRATUITIES are, of course, discretionary, but, if you are happy with the service provided, 10-15% is usual.
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