How to hail a cab in Miami.

If a taxicab is your preferred method of transportation, here are some tips to help you plan your trip.

In general, it’s important to make sure you hire a licensed taxi service. In Miami, unlicensed taxis are illegal. Check for the word “taxi” or “cab” displayed on the vehicle, as well as a prominently advertised telephone number. The taxi’s license number, driver’s license number and the driver’s rate card must also be displayed.

As far as rates go, most taxi drivers run a meter, which displays the fare you are expected to pay. The rate in Miami starts at $2.50 for the first 1/6 mile and $.40 for each additional 1/6 mile. Waiting time is $.40 per minute. You’ll also be responsible for any tolls during your trip. Additionally, most drivers expect a tip for good service (usually 15 to 20 percent).

Most Miami cabs have a credit card reader, but it’s important to double check with the driver. If you prefer to pay with plastic, make sure you inquire before you hop in.

Miami Taxi Companies:

USA Taxi: 305-897-3333

Super E-Z Taxi: 305-885-5555

Airport Taxi: 305-556-6666

Central Cab: 305-532-5555

Yellow Cab: 305-444-4444

KB Village Taxi (servicing Key Biscayne): 305-361-3111

Taxis at Miami International Airport

If you decide to hail a cab from Miami International Airport, you’ll need to head down to the lower-level curb, outside of the baggage claim area, where uniformed airport employees will help you at a designated taxi stand.

Taxis from the airport operate on a flat rate. Here is an estimated cost per trip from the airport to the following destinations (rate includes airport origination fee and any applicable highway tolls):

Airport Area Hotels: $13-$17

Coconut Grove: $22

Coral Gables: $17-22

Downtown Miami: $22

Port of Miami: $27

Key Biscayne: $44

South Beach: $35-$40

Bal Harbour: $46

Sunny Isles Beach: $55

Doral: $33

Kendall: $41-44

Homestead: $66-89

Fort Lauderdale Airport: $72

Metered fares from the airport are as follows: $4.50 for the first 1/6 mile (includes the $2.00 airport origination fee) and $.40 each additional 1/6 mile which equals to $6.90 for the first mile and $2.40 for each additional mile. Waiting time is $.40 per minute.

Water Taxi in Miami

Miami water taxis are a fun and easy way to get around Miami and see the sights at the same time. Water Taxi Miami offers a daily “yellow route” that costs $15 per person, one way.

The schedule is as follows:

Stop 1: Bayside Marketplace in Downtown (401 Biscayne Blvd.) Water taxi leaves at: 11 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 2 p.m., 3:30 p.m. and 5 p.m.

Stop 2: Miami Beach Marina (300 Alton Road), Water taxi leaves at: 11:45 a.m., 1:15 p.m., 2:45 p.m., 4:15 p.m., 5:45 p.m.

Stop 3: Only available on Friday, Saturday and Sunday at Sea Isle Marina (1635 N Bayshore Drive) Water taxi leaves at 12 p.m., 1:30 p.m., 3 p.m., 4:30 p.m., 6 p.m.

There’s also a more expensive “green route” ($20 per person, one way) that’s only available upon request and includes stops at the Miami Beach Marina, Virginia Key, Bayside Marketplace and Hyatt Miami. See also: How to Use Uber, Lyft and Private Car Services in Miami.