In 2016, London made it the law. All black cabs must accept card payments. No exceptions. No excuses.
But here’s the kicker: cabbies hated this rule. They rioted. They blocked streets. They called it a “cash grab.” And yet, now you can tap your card in a cab older than your parents. Progress, baby.
Don’t expect a slick, modern machine every time. Some drivers use a clunky terminal that looks like a prop from a 2002 sci-fi movie. Others have a sleek new reader. It’s a gamble. But it works.
The Cashless Cabbie: A Love-Hate Story
Your driver might grumble when you ask to pay by card. He’ll sigh. He’ll roll his eyes. Then he’ll point to the machine with a grunt of reluctant approval.
Why the attitude? Because card companies charge fees, and the cabbie pays them. Every transaction costs him about 2%. That’s his snack money. His cup of tea. His dignity.
So tip in cash. Seriously. A crumpled fiver will turn his scowl into a smile. It’s the London way.
