Part of our How to book your Edinburgh Airport transfer guide
Quick answer
Before you get into a taxi or private hire car in Edinburgh, check three things: the car shows council licence plates; a private hire car has "Pre-booked hires only" door signs and was booked by you; and the driver knows your name and destination without being told. Never get into a car you did not book, unless it is a licensed taxi from a rank.
Five checks before you get in
- Did you book it? Private hire cars can only take pre-booked journeys. If someone offers you a ride and you did not book, say no.
- Licence plates: licensed vehicles in Edinburgh carry council licence plates on the outside and a licence plate inside the car.
- Door signs: Edinburgh private hire cars carry "Pre-booked hires only" signs on both front doors. Taxis have a roof sign.
- Your name: ask "Who are you here to collect?" rather than offering your name. A genuine driver knows your name and where you are going.
- Booking details: the car should match what your booking confirmation or the driver's message says.
At Edinburgh Airport
Licensed taxis wait at the East Terminus rank. Pre-booked private hire drivers meet you in the arrivals hall or a pick-up zone. Be wary of anyone approaching passengers in the terminal offering rides: that is not how licensed operators work. With RTransfer, your driver messages you on WhatsApp when you land, so you know who to look for. Read how meet and greet works.
How we vet our drivers
Every RTransfer driver is local, licensed, screened and background-checked, and covered by private hire insurance. We have been locally run for over 12 years. If you ever have a concern about a journey, contact us straight away.
Late at night
Edinburgh's taxi trade ran a safety campaign in 2026, "If it's not booked, don't get in", aimed at people leaving bars and events. The same rule applies at the airport. Read our tips for late-night arrivals.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know a private hire car is licensed in Edinburgh?
It carries council licence plates outside and inside, and "Pre-booked hires only" signs on both front doors. It should only be there because you booked it.
Can a private hire driver pick me up without a booking?
No. Private hire journeys must be pre-booked through a licensed operator.
Are RTransfer drivers background-checked?
Yes. All our drivers are local, licensed, screened and background-checked, with private hire insurance.
Sources
Facts, fares and timetables checked 26 October 2026. They change, so check with the operator before you travel.