Istanbul taxi scams: how to avoid them

Common patterns

• A fixed price instead of the meter. The driver names a price before the ride. Official taxis run the meter. The Istanbul Governorship lists bargaining instead of using the meter among prohibited practices.
• A longer route. Drivers take a longer road when they think the passenger does not know the city. The Governorship names this practice specifically for foreign tourists.
• Cash tricks. A large note is swapped for a smaller one, or the driver claims you paid too little. Say the amount aloud when you hand it over and count the change.
• Touts in the terminal. People inside the arrivals hall offer rides. Licensed taxis queue at the official rank outside.
• Card terminal surprises. The amount on the card machine is different from what you expected. Look at the screen before you tap and ask for the receipt.

Istanbul Governorship's notice on commercial taxis (in Turkish)

Before you get in

• Use the official taxi rank. At both airports the marked rank is outside the arrivals hall.
• Check that the meter is running and shows the opening fee. If it is off, ask the driver to switch it on. If the driver refuses, get out.
• Note the plate number, or take a photo of it.
• Show the destination in writing and keep a map open on your phone.

During and after the ride

• Tell the driver how you will pay. A card or in-app payment leaves a record.
• If you pay cash, say the amount out loud and count the change before you leave.
• Pay the amount on the meter. If an extra charge is requested, ask what it is for and note the plate.
• Check your belongings before you close the door.

Where to report a driver

Call 153, the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality's help line (Beyaz Masa). Give the plate number, date, time and route. In an emergency call 112. If money was taken from you, you can also go to the tourist police.

For a complaint in writing, you can also use CİMER, the Turkish Presidency's online complaint portal.