Fake taxis in Paris are a real problem, especially for tourists unfamiliar with the city. These scammers target travelers at busy spots like airports or train stations, using clever tricks to overcharge or intimidate their passengers. Knowing what to watch out for can save you a lot of trouble—and money!
1. Overcharging
Fake taxis often exploit tourists who are unfamiliar with typical prices in Paris.
A ride that should cost €10 might suddenly be €50, especially if the driver claims it’s due to traffic, special city rules, or a “tourist fee.”
They target passengers who haven’t had time to research standard fares.
For example, a trip from Charles de Gaulle Airport to central Paris has fixed rates: €56 to the Right Bank and €65 to the Left Bank, but scammers may double it (or more like on the photo) for unsuspecting travelers.
If you can, use official taxi apps like G7 Taxi to book rides at regulated rates. These apps provide fare estimates, helping you avoid overcharging.
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Official fixed rates from CDG and Orly airports (Source: Taxis G7)
2. Claiming the Meter Is “Broken”
A common trick is for the driver to say their taxi meter isn’t working and insist on a flat fee instead.
The fee, of course, is much higher than the real cost would be if the meter were used.
Official Paris taxis are required to use meters, so this excuse is a red flag.
Tourists are left guessing if they’re paying too much, often reluctantly agreeing to avoid confrontation.
Always insist on using the meter. If the driver refuses, exit the vehicle and book a ride through a reputable app like G7 Taxi or Freenow.
3. Targeting Passengers at Airports or Train Stations
Fake taxis frequently lurk at busy hubs like Charles de Gaulle Airport or Gare du Nord station, preying on overwhelmed or jet-lagged travelers.
They approach passengers directly, avoiding official taxi queues, and offer rides that seem convenient.
Once inside, they charge exorbitant fares, knowing their victims are unlikely to argue or report them. These areas are tourist hotspots, making them ideal for scammers.
Only use taxis from official stands or book through recognized apps and avoid unsolicited ride offers.
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Official taxi line at Gare du Nord
4. Taking Unnecessarily Long Routes
Fake taxi drivers often take advantage of tourists’ unfamiliarity with Paris streets by choosing longer routes to increase the fare.
For example, instead of taking a direct route from the Eiffel Tower to Gare du Nord, they might zigzag through side streets, adding unnecessary kilometers.
This scam is especially frustrating for travelers trying to get to the airport or catch a train, as it wastes both time and money.
Use navigation apps to monitor the route. Booking through official apps ensures drivers follow the most efficient path.
5. Adding Nonexistent Fees
Inventing extra charges is a favorite scam.
Fake drivers might add fees for luggage, late-night hours, or even for being a non-French speaker.
These charges sound plausible to tourists, especially if they’re tired after a long flight or unfamiliar with local customs.
In reality, these fees don’t exist for official Paris taxis, which only charge based on time, distance, and standard rules.
Using apps like G7 Taxi provides transparency in pricing.
6. Refusing to Give Change
Fake taxi drivers often claim they don’t have small bills or coins to provide change, especially when passengers hand over a €50 or €100 note.
This forces travelers to leave the extra money as a “tip” or overpayment.
It’s a frustrating trick, especially for those just arriving and carrying larger bills.
Legitimate drivers are usually prepared with change, so this is a clear warning sign of a scam.
Pay with exact change or use electronic payment methods available in official taxi apps to avoid this issue.
7. Using Unmarked or Fake “Taxi” Signs
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An official taxi will look like this
Legitimate Paris taxis are easily identifiable by their roof-mounted “Taxi Parisien” signs and registration numbers displayed inside the car.
Fake taxis, however, use makeshift signs or stickers to appear legitimate.
Passengers in a rush might miss these details and end up in an unlicensed, unregulated vehicle. These cars often lack proper safety standards and are more likely to overcharge.
Here again, booking through apps like G7 Taxi ensures you’re using a licensed taxi.
8. Rushing Passengers Into the Car
At airports or train stations, fake taxi drivers often rush travelers into their cars before they have time to check the vehicle’s credentials.
By creating a sense of urgency—such as claiming they’re the last available taxi or that traffic is about to get worse—they pressure tourists into skipping basic checks.
Once inside, passengers realize too late that they’ve been scammed.
Try to take your time to check for official markings and use apps to book rides, ensuring driver legitimacy.
9. Refusing to Drop Passengers Off Until They Pay
In an intimidating scam, fake taxi drivers refuse to let passengers leave the car until they hand over the demanded fare.
This tactic can be especially distressing for tourists, who may feel trapped or unsafe.
The driver might lock the doors or stop in an inconvenient location to force payment.
Use official taxi services with clear fare structures to avoid such situations. Booking through apps provides a record of the journey and fare.
10. Claiming Credit Card Machines Are Broken
Another common trick is for drivers to claim their credit card machine isn’t working and demand cash instead.
This scam is particularly effective with tourists, as many assume technical issues are normal.
However, the real purpose is to prevent passengers from disputing charges or tracking the payment. Most official Paris taxis accept credit cards, so this excuse should raise suspicion.
Always confirm payment methods before starting the ride. Official taxis typically accept cards, and app bookings handle payments electronically.
11. Offering Unsolicited Assistance
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Official taxis have to queue in line at airports and train stations
At busy locations, fake taxi drivers often approach travelers offering help with luggage or directions.
While this may seem friendly, it’s usually a ploy to lure passengers into an unlicensed vehicle.
Once inside, passengers face inflated fares or unsafe driving conditions. Legitimate drivers rarely approach customers directly and instead wait in designated taxi ranks.
Politely decline unsolicited offers and use official taxi stands or trusted apps to arrange transportation.
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