Turning my van into a taxi.

@CODYMAC (1356)
San Diego, California
October 11, 2012 7:50pm CST
So, I was chatting with my fiancee and as we were discussing other money making avenues, she suggested that I turn my van into a taxi. I thought about it at first but since I had never done it before, I was a little worried about cost. I know that there are all kinds of fees and licenses I might need to operate a taxi but I think it is going to be worth it in the long run. One good aspect is that I will have constant work. It is a permanent position and I will not have to be worried about the recession or getting fired. I live in Oregon and I have been trying to find out the laws for my area. I am sure that it will also pay for itself in the long run too. These are just my thoughts about the idea. What do you all think about this? Should I turn my van into a taxi? And do you think it will be worth it?
3 people like this
7 responses
@ShepherdSpy (8544)
• Omagh, Northern Ireland
12 Oct 12
Taxiing is a business like any other,and there are pros and cons that go along with the territory..You get to meet new people all the time and if you don't have advanced knowledge of every street and intersection in your area (It may be easier in a city with a planned grid layout than one that's grown organically over centuries!) You will be able to pick it up..I know London Cabbies have to learn "The Knowledge" of every street location in Central London (and how to get there) to pass their Cabbie License exam..But now we have GPS,so that part should be easier.. There may be a limited supply of Licenses in some cities/countries,where someone has to give up or pass on their license when they decide to quit..but then again in some places there are also those doing the job without having a License.. As long as you have thorough background on what's involved to get in to this then all I can add is Good Luck!
@CODYMAC (1356)
• San Diego, California
12 Oct 12
Thank you for this information and I will have to really look after knowing the streets better. With GPS it makes it easier and I know that I will have one in my van. I didnt know that you could have a business like this without a license. That must mean there are people getting around the taxes too...hmm. Well i know that for myself it is a great thing and I will do most of my work in the metro area. Thanks for this comment.
• Omagh, Northern Ireland
13 Oct 12
I'm doubting the legality of cabbing without having an official license,training,or experience..People are advised not to use an unlicensed vehicle as a cab,especially at airports or public transport terminals..The driver may not have a Public Service License,and Insurance companies won't cover a private motorist as a Cab driver...I don't know what charges could be brought against someone not having all the requirements of a Legal Cabbie,if things went wrong (being caught?)..Just saying,it's worth checking out the advantages (and disadvantages!) of both sides of the Job before jumping in..
@CODYMAC (1356)
• San Diego, California
29 Oct 12
Right you are. Need to look at everything. I have talked to insurance companies and I do need a different insurance, but not a different license, or endorsement. Just a regular drivers license will do. In the city of Portland, there are MANY restrictions, but out here where I live, Beaverton, there are many drivers. The only thing I am able to do is drop people off in Portland, but not pick them up. I am not able to go to PDX and that is because of the strict Multnomah County Laws on cabbies... Having a business license is needed I found out, and a tax stamp, so it will all work out rather quick.
@julyteen (13252)
• Davao, Philippines
12 Oct 12
You should consider first the advantages and disadvantages. For me, I think your plan worth. You will gain revenue after few months of conversion. Not like now, your van no gain at all. Except it helps you in your different travels.
@CODYMAC (1356)
• San Diego, California
12 Oct 12
There are so many advantages to having a taxi like not having to worry about being let go from the job. having a "forever" job. Some of the bad things would be undesirables. They may try and take YOU for a ride with their excuses... Some might not pay...etc.
@julyteen (13252)
• Davao, Philippines
20 Jan 13
I agree with you. Atleast your taxi been compensated and it helps to your finances
• Portugal
12 Oct 12
for sure thats a good idea^^ you should go for it. if you enjoy driving and if you know streets and places really well you should try that job. its like you say you will have constant work. and the payment is good also^^ your girlfriend had a good suggestion^^ by the way did you go to see her already? im sure it will be a very romantic day for both of you when lay eyes on each other^^
@CODYMAC (1356)
• San Diego, California
12 Oct 12
Well, I think that this coming Monday I will be going in to get it done. I have heard enough positive things about it and I do feel like it is a good way to go... Not yet and I will be moving the trip to December. So I am just waiting on my passport. I didnt think it would take this long to get it, but the government is full of surprises. I will be super excited to see her and she is super excited to see me too...
• Philippines
12 Oct 12
Hi there Codymac, I really think it is a good idea. It is a good way to earn money and you will not have a boss for you to follow on. I am actually planning on having that as a business but there are a lot of competitions already. But in your case, it's just you...so you can manage that well. I wish you good luck and I do think that's a best idea. Happy Mylotting!
@CODYMAC (1356)
• San Diego, California
12 Oct 12
Right I agree with you. It really is a wonderful way to make some money and to keep myself employed. My fiancee really wants us to have a secure future...(what woman doesnt???) lol Anyway... thanks for the comment.
@ARIES1973 (11426)
• Legaspi, Philippines
12 Oct 12
Hi codymac! Transportation is also a good form of investment. But you have to consider the place. Is there an available franchise in your place if you are going to convert you private van into a public utility vehicle? That is the first thing you should know. I know that engaging in transportation business is good but since you come from other place maybe you could make a study in your area as to the progress of others who are on the same business. In our place, it is possible to get a van on an installment basis and the income derive from it can actually pay for itself. Transportation is one of the best investments that I know. Have a nice day!
@CODYMAC (1356)
• San Diego, California
12 Oct 12
Thanks Aries1973. I agree and I know that it will be around for a long while. I am more excited in that I will not have to worry about looking for a job anymore. I just hope that I dont get any crazies jumping in and making problems for me.
@TheIzers (680)
12 Oct 12
You are so right its good in the long run and worth for the work of getting licence etc. I have one of my neighbor who turn both of his car (his wife and his) into taxi and they've been doing it since 2005. When the recession hit they did not worry about not having a job. So its really good for you. Congrat...
@CODYMAC (1356)
• San Diego, California
12 Oct 12
I have been looking into the long run and yes, I think it will be a better option than many things I have tried. I am happy that my fiancee suggested it or I would still be sitting searching for work...lol Thanks for that and have a great day.
@rhoiena (109)
• Philippines
24 Dec 12
I think that is a good decision to make your van a taxi. A good revenue decision in your part. You don't have boss in that way. You are the boss and you take your time anytime you want to use it as taxi. Good luck for having a good decision.