Beware of Unlicensed Taxis in Spain: Hefty Fines for PassengersBeware of Unlicensed Taxis in Spain: Hefty Fines for Passengers Holidaymakers traveling to Spain should be cautious of taxi scams that could result in significant fines. Spain has strict laws requiring all taxis and private hire vehicles to be registered. Unauthorized taxi services are illegal, and passengers could face fines of up to €600 for using them. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs advises travelers to use only official and licensed taxis or reputable transport companies. Unlicensed taxis do not have visible meters, and drivers may charge exorbitant rates or take longer routes to increase the fare. To avoid fines and ensure a safe and reliable ride: * Check for the taxi’s visible meter before boarding. * If the driver claims the meter is not working, politely decline the ride and find another taxi. * Request an estimated fare from your hotel to prevent unexpected charges. * Book your taxi or airport transfer through an approved company.
Holidaymakers flying to Spain are being warned about a taxi scheme that could lead to significant fines.
Strict Spanish laws require all taxis or private hire vehicles to be properly registered. However, many tourists may not know that using an unlicensed taxi service can result in fines of up to 600 euros for passengers.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued an advisory urging travellers to use only official and licensed taxis or transport services. Their website states: “Use only officially registered or licensed taxis or reputable transport companies that you recognise. Licensing requirements vary throughout Spain and certain cities require advance booking.”
It also warns: “Passengers caught using unlicensed taxi services could face fines of up to €600. Make sure you book your taxi or airport transfer through an approved company.”
Travel experts at GoGuides have pointed out that legitimate taxis in Spain should have a visible meter. They advise against accepting rides from drivers who offer a fixed price because their meter is supposedly broken, or from drivers who take longer routes to increase the price, the Mirror reports.
Their advice is simple: “Check that the meter is turned on before you get in the taxi. If the driver claims it’s not working, politely turn away and find another taxi. You can call your hotel to get an estimate to get the travel costs, so you don’t have to wait.
