Orange County Taxi Administration Program

 Passenger Information

What to look for before getting into a taxicab:

● Current Vehicle Permit - Located on the rear window / left side

● Current Driver Permit - Must be displayed inside taxicab

What You Should Expect From Your Taxicab Ride:

● Direct the destination and route used.
● Travel to any destination.
● A courteous driver who knows the streets and interest points of Orange

   County.
● A driver who knows and obeys all traffic laws.
● Air-conditioning or heat on demand.
● A radio-free (silent) trip if desired.
● Smoke and odor free air.
● A clean passenger area.
● A clean luggage area/trunk.
● A driver who uses the horn only when necessary to warn of danger.

 Meter Information

The taximeter is programmed with what’s called “critical speed”. This critical speed is the point in which the taximeter begins to calculate “wait time” into the total fare rather than distance.  When the vehicle reaches speeds above critical speed, the meter stops calculating “wait time” and calculates the fare based on distance. The taximeter will never calculate both “wait time” and "distance" simultaneously.

With this in mind, It is normal behavior for the meter to increase (increment) the fare amount when the taxicab is stopped or is traveling at a low rate of speed.  When the meter is calculating distance, the meter amount will increase .65 cents every 1/4 of a mile.  When the meter is calculating wait time, the meter amount will increase .65 cents every 78 seconds.  These calculations, though not simultaneous, are prorated.  So if you're stopped in the taxicab and you see the meter amount increase, this is normal.

With all this is mind, it's almost impossible to calculate "wait time" while in route or before a trip is actually taken. The only calculatable "wait time" is if a passenger requests a layover or a "stop and wait" from the driver.

 OCTAP Brochures and Resources

        ● OCTAP Background Information

        ● What Does An OCTAP Permit Mean to a Customer

        ● Taxicab Safety Brochure
        ● Taxicab Ride Information Sheet

        ● California Child Restraint Law