Illegal Taxi Notice

American Citizens entering Shanghai via Hongqiao Airport and wishing to move on to their final destinations via taxi are advised to be on the alert.  The Consulate General has received complaints that some Western travelers, including Americans, have been directed by taxi queue attendants toward unlicensed cabs.  These “taxis” do not have the required driver photo/ID displayed in the vehicle, and have meters that are similar in appearance to legitimate taxi meters, but may be located low on the dashboard where they can be concealed by the driver’s hand on the gear shift.  The illegal taxi will ordinarily take passengers to their desired destination, but at some point during the journey an additional RMB 100 will be added to the legitimate fare on the meter.  Following are some general tips that may assist you in using taxi services in Shanghai:

1. Typically, you should not pay over 200 RMB for a trip anywhere in Shanghai.
2. The charges for bridge and tunnel tolls in Shanghai have not been levied for years.
3. You have the right to refuse to pay if you are not given a computer printed receipt.
4. You have the right to refuse to pay if a driver asks for toll fees.
5. Call Shanghai Public Transportation Hotline 12319 or 962000 to complain.
6. “110” is the Emergency number in Shanghai just like “911” in U.S.  Give it a try if you feel unsafe in the taxi. 
7. Report the taxi driver’s license number, the name of the Taxi Company, the description of the driver and the taxi license plate number and as much other information as possible.

The fact is that most of the taxi drivers in Shanghai are quite honest and take passengers to their destinations quickly and safely for a reasonable price.  It is important, however, to be aware of the infrequent deviations from this general rule.  Passengers who suspect they may have taken an illegitimate taxi by mistake should, upon arrival at their destination, follow the steps outlined above to report the incident to the proper authorities.