Paris Taxi Scams

Paris, the City of Light, attracts millions of visitors each year. While most experiences are magical, some tourists fall victim to taxi scams. Being aware of these scams can help you avoid unnecessary stress and expenses during your visit.

Common Taxi Scams in Paris

1. Airport Pickup Scam

How it works:

• Scammers pose as official taxi drivers at Charles de Gaulle (CDG) Airport.
• They may wear lanyards or vests to appear legitimate.
• They often direct tourists away from official taxi lines to unlicensed vehicles.

Red flags:

• Driver doesn't use a meter or set a flat rate in advance.
• Taxi lacks official signage or identification numbers.
• Driver insists on cash payment only.

Real experience:

"I was directed away from the official taxi line at CDG to Gate 16 by someone with an airport lanyard. The 'taxi' that picked me up had no meter and tried to charge me 360 euros for the ride!" - Anonymous traveler

2. Flat Rate Violation

How it works:

• Drivers agree to the official flat rate at the start of the journey.
• Upon arrival, they demand a higher amount, often citing traffic or luggage fees.

Red flags:

• Driver changes the agreed-upon price at the destination.
• Meter shows a higher amount than the official flat rate.

Real experience:

"We confirmed the 62€ flat rate with our driver from CDG to the Left Bank. When we arrived, he demanded 80€ and insisted on cash payment." - Reddit user

3. "Broken" Card Machine

How it works:

• Drivers claim their card machine is broken, insisting on cash payment.
• This allows them to avoid declaring income or to overcharge tourists.

Red flags:

• Driver claims the card machine isn't working only at the end of the trip.
• Refuses to provide a receipt for cash payment.

Real experience:

"The driver said he didn't have a machine for credit cards. We were tired and didn't know how much to push back since he was being pretty aggressive about it, so we paid cash." - Reddit user

How to Avoid Taxi Scams in Paris

1. Use official taxis: At airports, only use the designated taxi ranks. Look for the official taxi sign (a white box with "TAXI Parisien" in black letters).

2. Verify the taxi: Ensure the vehicle has:

   • A meter
   • A roof light with "TAXI Parisien"
   • A visible license plate starting with the numbers 75, 77, 78, 91, 92, 93, 94, or 95
   • The driver's professional license card displayed on the dashboard

3. Know the rates: As of 2024, flat rates from CDG airport are:

   • 55€ to the Right Bank (north of the Seine)
   • 60€ to the Left Bank (south of the Seine)

4. Insist on the meter: For non-airport trips, make sure the meter is running and visible.

5. Pay by card: French taxis are required by law to accept credit card payments. If a driver claims their machine is broken, offer to call the police to report the issue.

6. Get a receipt: Always ask for a receipt, which should include the driver's license number.

7. Use ride-hailing apps: Consider using apps like Uber, Bolt, or G7 for pre-set fares and easy payment.

8. Learn key phrases: Know how to say "Turn on the meter" ("Mettez le compteur en marche") and "I only have a card" ("Je n'ai qu'une carte bancaire").

What to Do If You've Been Scammed

1. Don't panic or confront aggressively: Your safety is paramount.

2. Gather evidence: If possible, take photos of the taxi's license plate and identification number.

3. Report the incident: File a complaint with the Paris police or at a police station.

4. Contact your hotel: If you're at your hotel, ask the front desk for assistance in dealing with the driver.

5. Leave a review: Share your experience on travel forums to warn other tourists.

Remember, while these scams exist, they don't represent all Parisian taxi drivers. Most are honest professionals. Stay vigilant, but don't let the fear of scams ruin your Parisian adventure!

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Have you experienced a taxi scam in Paris? Share your story in the comments below to help other travelers stay informed and prepared!