By Rick Chapo

Privyet! Da! Nyet! Dasvidanya! You’ve decided on a trip to Russia and these are the four words you will learn first in preparation – hello, yes, no, goodbye! Understanding how to get around using the infamous Russian taxi system is a bit more complex.

A trip to Russia can be a bit intimidating at first. The culture is very different from what you might be used to at home. For instance, a person walking around smiling very friendly will be met with scowls because to do so is a sign of being a fraudster. Considering how much politicians tend to smile, the Russians might be on to something here.

Regardless, it is vital that you understand, as Dorthy might say, that you are not in Kansas anymore. Your time in Russia will be different. Instead of comparing it to home, try to take it in and enjoy it. I’ve been to Russia a few times and had more than just a good time.

Another element of Russia that can be confusing is the taxi system. In major cities like St. Petersburg or Moscow, it works just the way you are used to. There are cars with “taxi” signs. You wave at them and they ignore you as the pass by. Occasionally, they might suffer the foolish tourist, but only if hard up on money. In short, they act like taxi drivers in any major city.

Once you get out of the major cities, the taxi service becomes all encompassing. In fact, it may be one of the largest forms of business in the country. How so? Well, there are no formal taxis per se. Instead, practically every vehicle is a taxi. You simply stand on the side of the road with your hand out and a meaningful look. If someone is looking for a few rubles to help with gas, they’ll pull over. You then tell them where you want to go and they agree or not.

This informal taxi process really has no limits other than what the driver is willing to do. After imbibing in a few adult beverages [vodka] one evening, I and a friend were able to negotiate a $50 fee with a driver to take us to the next city beyond the one we were in. I did not realize that the next city was 14 hours away. A few more adult beverages and it really didn’t matter. Regardless, this was all accomplished by renting a ride off the side of the road.

If you get outside of a major city in Russia, don’t bother hunting for a taxi. Throw out your hand, give them the “I need a ride” look and the world is your oyster. Okay, Russia is your oyster, but you get my drift.

Searching appropriately for companies which can hire you as a driver is the first step to becoming a driver with a local taxi service. Crucial aspects must be taken into consideration before enlisting yourself as a driver. Alertness increases hiring possibilities and discipline doubles the chances. Of course, having a valid driver’s license is the most important. Keep your papers ready and ensure that they support your candidature to work as taxi driver. These aspects are mandatory for this purpose; hence they shouldn’t be taken sportingly. These are common points to be taken care of before any leap.

Anyone who is interested in working for one of the local transportation services should be well prepared. Your personal and professional etiquette are very important. Something weighted quite heavily is your driving record. If your accident rates are high, you might not be able to attain employment as a taxi driver. Personal records are also considered and a clean criminal record is preferred. If you fulfill these criteria, you still have to prove yourself. As with any interview, dress for success.

Many drivers prefer having their own cabs after being involved in this profession for awhile. Still, there are some drivers who choose to drive a vehicle that is supplied by the company on a lease style basis. You must produce legal documents to satisfy the company’s requirements when applying for a lease though. This process is a stepping stone to get cabs on lease. The vehicles that you are offered on lease must remain equipped with the necessary instruments like communication devices, meters, payment equipments and any other accessories. Drivers are also always liable for the maintenance of these leased vehicles.

Another point to consider is that most drivers are hired on the basis of competency tests. Candidates are also tested to ensure that they are able to comprehend road safety rules. Checking such skills is only common sense.

A career with a local cab service is lucrative and challenging too. This towering dream materializes when drivers are strict disciplinarians and follow the prescribed norms. Most importantly, you must have a friendly attitude and a great demeanor. This will help you to make more money while driving your cab. Remember, drivers who transport others usually earn tips from those customers so it really does pay to be nice. However, prepare to face tough situations. Not all travelers are well-mannered.

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