Are cab meters based on time or distance?

Both. In most cities, taximeters calculate fares using a hybrid of distance when the vehicle is moving and time when it is stopped or moving slowly, plus a base “flag” fare and any applicable surcharges; some routes use regulated flat or zone-based prices.

How a taximeter calculates your fare

Modern taximeters are designed to charge fairly whether a taxi is cruising on open roads or inching through traffic. They switch between distance-based increments at normal speeds and time-based increments when the vehicle slows or stops, so drivers are compensated for both mileage and waiting.

Two charging modes work together

When the cab is traveling above a set threshold speed (commonly around 10–12 mph or 16–20 km/h, though the exact value varies by city), the meter adds fare by distance. When speed drops below that threshold—such as in congestion, at lights, or while waiting—the meter adds fare by time. This is why the amount can rise even when you’re not moving. The switch between modes is automatic and defined by local tariff rules.

What you’re actually paying for

A typical metered taxi fare is made up of several components that together reflect the start of the trip, movement, waiting, and any regulated extras. The following items are the most common parts you’ll see on a fare breakdown.

• Base or “flag drop” fare: A fixed amount that starts the moment the meter is engaged, often covering a small initial distance or time.
• Distance charge: An incremental amount for each unit of distance traveled (for example, per 1/10 mile or per 100 meters) when moving above the speed threshold.
• Time (waiting) charge: An incremental amount for each unit of time (for example, per minute) when stopped or moving slowly below the threshold speed.
• Tariff bands: Different rates that apply by time of day, day of week, or holidays (e.g., night, weekend, or holiday tariffs).
• Flat or zone fares: Fixed prices for specific routes such as airport-to-downtown or within defined zones, set by local regulators.
• Surcharges and fees: Regulated add-ons such as peak-hour, congestion-zone, booking/dispatch fees, additional passenger or luggage fees, and taxes.
• Tolls and extras: Road/bridge tolls and other pass-through costs that may be added on top of the metered fare, depending on local rules.
• Minimum fare: A regulated minimum you’ll pay even for very short trips.

Taken together, these components ensure the fare reflects the trip’s realities—how far you traveled, how long it took under traffic conditions, and any regulated extras or fixed-route pricing that applies.

Variations you might encounter

While the time-and-distance model is the global norm for licensed taxis, details vary by jurisdiction. Knowing a city’s tariff card or posted rules helps set expectations before you ride.

Traditional street-hail taxis

Licensed cabs typically run strictly on regulated tariffs, with meters sealed and inspected by local “weights and measures” authorities. Expect time-and-distance charging with clear, posted surcharges and occasional flat fares on designated routes (commonly airport corridors). Night or weekend tariff bands are also common.

App-based rides

Ride-hailing services often show an upfront price that is dynamically adjusted for demand (“surge”). Under the hood, those prices are still grounded in time and distance estimates, but they are not the same as a regulated taxi meter. In some cities, app-based services must meet or beat a regulated time-and-distance baseline or disclose price components clearly.

Behind the meter: technology and regulation

Modern taximeters are digital and derive distance from vehicle sensors or GPS, combining it with a high-precision clock to compute fare under a city’s tariff. They are tested, calibrated, and sealed, and subject to periodic inspection to prevent tampering. Many jurisdictions require printed or digital receipts itemizing the base fare, time and distance increments, surcharges, tolls, and taxes.

How to avoid fare surprises

A few simple steps can help you understand what you’ll pay and why, especially in places you’re visiting for the first time.

• Check the posted tariff card (in the cab or online) so you know the base fare, per-distance and per-time rates, and any surcharges.
• Ask about flat or zone fares for common routes (e.g., airports) and confirm what they include (tolls, surcharges).
• Expect time-based charges in heavy traffic or during requested stops; minimizing mid-trip stops can reduce waiting time costs.
• Request a receipt; it should itemize the fare and all extras, which helps in case of disputes or reimbursement.
• If using an app, review the upfront price and note any surge indicators; compare with regulated taxi rates when available.

With a quick check of the tariff and a receipt at the end, you’ll have a clear, itemized view of how time, distance, and any extras produced the final fare.

Summary

Cab meters are based on both time and distance. They charge by distance when the taxi is moving at normal speeds and by time when it’s slow or stopped, layered on top of a base fare and any regulated surcharges or flat-route pricing. Exact thresholds and fees vary by city, so the best guide is the local tariff card or the upfront price shown in an app.

What is the taxi meter rule?

17. A taxi meter in a vehicle is considered accurate if, (a) On a road test, the distance computed by the taxi meter is within 2% of the actual distance travelled; and, (b) On a time test, the time computed by the taxi meter is within 2% of the actual time. 18.

What is a taxi meter based on?

This calculation is based on a combination of distance traveled and time. Taximeters are essential for providing a fair and transparent fare for both the driver and the passenger. The fare may vary depending on the city or country, and can include base rates, rates per kilometer/mile, and waiting time fees.

Are taxi meters by time or distance?

In short, a taximeter works technically by constantly measuring distance and time, and uses pre-programmed fares to calculate the total amount of the trip in real time.

How long is 4 miles in a taxi?

Taxi fares

Distance	Approx journey time	Monday to Friday 06:00 – 20:00 (Tariff code 1)
1 mile	6 – 13 mins	£5.20 – £8.20
2 miles	10 – 20 mins	£8 – £12.80
4 miles	16 – 30 mins	£14 – £20
6 miles	28 – 40 mins	£21 – £27