Washington DC via Taxi: A Fare Way to Travel

(image: WOLDCNews)

Washington, D.C. is a city where I often use a taxi. Maybe it's because my last two visits and this current one were in December or January and considering the freezing temperature during those months, this visitor from Hawaii just wanted to get to where he needed to as soon as possible. Also these visits were only for a weekend so making the most of each minute mattered.

The Metro subway is also a convenient way to travel but unlike other big cities the stops aren't as common as one would like. The west end of the National Mall and the Kennedy Center lack convenient stations. But regardless of either mode, the best way to see the attractions along the National Mall is to simply walk a good portion of it.

(image: Johnny Jet)

Fodor's.com succinctly explains about taxi travel in Washington DC:

Taxi Travel

You can hail a taxi on the street just about anywhere in the city, and they tend to congregate around major hotels. If you find yourself on a quiet street in a residential area, either walk to a busier street or phone for a taxi. Although it depends on your location and the time of day, a taxi ought to arrive in 10 to 15 minutes. There are a number of different cab companies in the city, and as a result, D.C. cabs do not have a uniform appearance (unlike New York's yellow cabs, for example). And you may find yourself in a taxi that's older and a bit rundown.

Most District cab drivers are independent operators and may ignore a potential passenger. Cabbies are also known for refusing to pick up passengers after learning of their destination, and the D.C. government rarely enforces the taxi laws that require drivers who are free to either pick up passengers or display an off-duty sign. If after several minutes you haven't been able to get a cab, your best bet is to find the nearest Metro station and take the subway or walk to a nearby hotel and get a cab there.

Fares

After 70 years of a zone system, taxis in the District are now on time and distance meters. The base rate for the first one-sixth mi is $3. Each additional one-sixth mi and each minute stopped or traveling at less than 10 mph. is 25¢. There is a $2 surcharge per piece of large luggage in the trunk and a 50¢ per bag handling charge. There is a $2 surcharge for radio dispatch and $1.50 for each additional person. During D.C.-declared snow emergencies, there is an additional 25% surcharge. The maximum fare for trips starting and ending in the District is $19 plus applicable surcharges.

Maryland and Virginia taxis also have meters. These taxis can take you into or out of D.C., but are not allowed to take you between points in D.C.

Taxi Companies

Diamond (202/387-6200). Mayflower (202/783-1111). Yellow (202/544-1212).