Catching a taxi

The Victorian Taxi Directorate regulates the taxi industry, but does not provide or run taxi services.

Taxis can be hired off the street, at designated taxi ranks or by phone booking.

Taxi dome lights indicate availability to people hailing a cab and amber tariff lamps indicate the hiring rate. Use the following as a guide.

Dome light illumination	Description	Illustration
Dome light illuminated, amber tariff lamps not illuminated	Taxi vacant - for hire
Dome light and amber tariff lamps not illuminated	Taxi not for hire* * The "NOT FOR HIRE" sign on passenger sun visor should be visible.
Dome light not illuminated, one amber tariff lamp illuminated	Taxi engaged Standard hiring (5am to midnight) rates apply
Dome light not illuminated, both amber tariff lamps illuminated	Taxi engaged Late night hiring rate operating (midnight to 5am for metro and outer suburban zones, and midnight to 6am for country and urban zones); or Operating at high occupancy tariff (5 or more passengers, or specific large vehicle booking)

Booking a cab

It is recommended that you book a cab in advance. To book a cab near you, contact your local taxi company.