While airline miles and hotel points are widely known, taxi loyalty programs are often overlooked. But for regular riders, especially those who commute daily or travel frequently, loyalty programs can offer valuable perks like ride discounts, points, and even cashback. Whether you’re using a traditional cab or app-based service, there are ways to benefit from repeat trips.
Here’s what to know about taxi loyalty programs—and where to find them.
1. App-Based Rewards Are the Most Common
Most traditional taxi companies don’t offer standalone loyalty programs, but rideshare and taxi apps often do. These digital loyalty features include:
- Uber One: A paid membership that includes discounts on eligible rides, priority support, and waived delivery fees on Uber Eats.
- GrabRewards: In Southeast Asia, users earn points with every Grab ride, which can be redeemed for vouchers, services, or partner deals.
- Bolt Loyalty Promotions: While not structured as a formal points program, Bolt often provides ride bundles or repeat-rider discounts via in-app promotions.
2. Some Credit Cards Offer Indirect Loyalty Perks
If your local taxi service doesn’t offer rewards directly, you can still benefit by paying with a rewards credit card. Look for cards that offer:
- 3x points or cashback on transit or travel
- Exclusive partnerships with rideshare apps
- Automatic statement credits or promotions for Uber and Lyft
Popular cards like Amex Gold, Chase Sapphire Preferred, and Citi Premier offer valuable points when paying for taxis, especially through mobile wallets.
3. Local Co-ops and Taxi Services with Loyalty Discounts
Some city-based taxi companies and cooperatives offer repeat-rider discounts, especially for seniors, corporate clients, or frequent airport travelers. These programs are typically not points-based, but may include:
- Punch cards or credits toward a free ride
- Reduced rates after a minimum number of rides
- Member-only flat rates for set routes
To find these programs, check the websites of local cab companies or call their customer service for more info.
4. Ride Subscription Models Are a New Loyalty Alternative
Services like Uber Ride Pass or Lyft Pink function as semi-loyalty programs. Riders pay a monthly fee in exchange for:
- Locked-in lower fares
- Priority pickups
- Waived cancellation fees
- Ride credits or bonuses during certain promotions
These models are ideal for daily commuters or users who rely heavily on rideshare for business or errands.
5. Don’t Overlook Cashback Options
Even without a loyalty program, you can stack rewards using a cashback strategy. For example, you can earn cashback with an Uber gift card or get rewards with a Lyft gift card through Fluz. Using gift cards alongside loyalty perks lets you double-dip on savings.Browse available transit gift cards on Fluz for real-time cashback opportunities.
