How to Ride Yellow Cabs in New York City – A Step-by-Step Passenger Guide
Yellow Cabs are the most recognizable taxis in the world and a cornerstone of transportation in New York City. They offer citywide street-hail service, making them the best choice for Manhattan, business districts, hotels, and airports.
This guide explains how to ride Yellow Cabs in NYC, step by step, so you know exactly what to expect from pickup to payment.
What Is a Yellow Cab?
A Yellow Cab is a TLC-licensed street-hail taxi authorized to pick up passengers anywhere in New York City.
Yellow Cabs:
Are easily recognized by their yellow color
Display a rooftop medallion number
Use official taximeters
Are driven by licensed professional drivers
Where Can You Ride Yellow Cabs?
Pickup Rules
Yellow Cabs may pick up street hails:
Anywhere in Manhattan
In all NYC boroughs
At hotels, taxi stands, and major landmarks
At official airport taxi stands
This makes Yellow Cabs the most flexible taxi option in NYC.
Step-by-Step: How to Ride a Yellow Cab
Step 1: Find an Available Yellow Cab
Look for a yellow taxi with its rooftop light on
An illuminated center number indicates availability
Step 2: Hail the Taxi
Stand at the curb
Raise your hand clearly
Step back as the cab pulls over
Step 3: Enter and State Your Destination
Enter the cab safely
Clearly state your destination address or landmark
Drivers may not refuse legal destinations.
Step 4: Check the Meter
The meter must be activated when the trip starts
All fares are calculated automatically
Step 5: Pay and Exit
Pay by cash, credit card, debit card, or contactless payment
Request a receipt if needed
Exit safely at your destination
Yellow Cab Fares & Payments
Yellow Cabs use TLC-regulated metered fares, including:
Base fare
Distance and time charges
Night and peak-hour surcharges
Tolls where applicable
Airport Note
Yellow Cabs offer the official flat fare between JFK Airport and Manhattan, as regulated by the TLC.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Entering an unlicensed vehicle
Accepting a ride without the meter on
Paying extra for luggage (not allowed)
Believing a driver can set a custom fare
Are Yellow Cabs Safe?
Yes. Yellow Cabs are:
Fully licensed and insured
Regularly inspected
Regulated by the NYC TLC
Required to follow strict service rules
What If Something Goes Wrong?
If you experience:
Overcharging
Refusal of service
Unsafe driving
Discrimination
Take note of the taxi medallion number and file a complaint with the NYC Taxi and Limousine Commission.
Summary: Riding Yellow Cabs Is Simple & Reliable
Yellow Cabs remain the most convenient way to travel across New York City—especially in Manhattan and at airports. Understanding the rules ensures a smooth and stress-free ride.