Do I have to tip a taxi in Wales?

No. The published meter (or the agreed private-hire quote) is what you owe. Rounding up is a courtesy, not a rule.

Is waiting time already in the fare?

On a hackney, yes — the meter charges waiting when the cab is slow or stopped. You are not expected to add a second waiting tip on top.

Tipping taxi drivers in Wales

You do not have to tip a taxi in Wales. The meter, or the private-hire quote, is what you owe. Rounding up is a courtesy. Waiting on a hackney is already in the fare.

Source: Cardiff Council — taxis · Checked: 2026-09-08 · Wales

There is no obligation to tip a taxi driver in Wales. The meter shows the fare and that is what you owe.

What most people do

Many passengers round up to the nearest pound. On a £7.40 fare they hand over £8 and say "keep the change." That is the norm — not a rule, not an expectation, just a courtesy.

When people tip more

Airport runs — a longer booking, often with luggage. A pound or two on top is common.
Helped with heavy bags or a wheelchair — if the driver actively helped, a small tip is reasonable.
Late-night or difficult conditions — bad weather, long wait to collect you, etc.

When you should not feel pressure

Short rank journeys — station to hotel, town centre to suburb. Rounding up is enough.
The meter already includes waiting time — you are paying for the driver's time whenever the cab is stationary or slow.
Private hire with a pre-agreed fare — the price was fixed when you booked.

In summary

Rounding up is kind. A pound on a longer trip is generous. Nobody in Wales will be offended if you pay exactly the meter fare.

Common questions

Do I have to tip a taxi in Wales?: No. The published meter (or the agreed private-hire quote) is what you owe. Rounding up is a courtesy, not a rule.
Is waiting time already in the fare?: On a hackney, yes — the meter charges waiting when the cab is slow or stopped. You are not expected to add a second waiting tip on top.