7 Tips for Hiring a Driver in India

Rather than renting a car in India, it’s more likely that you would hire a car AND driver through a car rental agency such as Sixt (for longer trips) or hire a taxi (when you’re out and about in a city). In either case, there are some things you definitely need to know about the fine art of negotiating and arriving safely.

1. Start your search for a driver before you even arrive in India. Forums, such as Lonely Planet’s Thorntree, will have recommendations for drivers. If you don’t see what you’re looking for, post a question and you’re sure to receive responses from people with first-hand experience. Beware that on occasion the drivers themselves (or their family members) will post recommendations and their service may be dubious. Ask questions of both the person making the recommendation as well as the driver (some have email access).

2. Ask other travelers as well as locals what a specific ride should typically cost. This will give you an idea as to whether your potential driver is giving you a fair price. Remember to bargain as the first price that you’re provided will undoubtedly be far higher than the “real” price.

3. Hire someone who speaks English. Not only will this clear up questions about where you want to go but also what the ride will cost you.

Akhand (left) was my favorite driver in India. He spoke English and doubled as an astrologer and palm reader!

4. Be clear about what you’re paying for. While it may seem overkill to have to be so precise, there are all sorts of add-ons that could pop up if your driver is anything but honest. These include: air-conditioning, gas, lodging (if you’re on an overnight trip) and food. Your driver may also be reluctant to take you to your final destination on longer trips, opting instead to drop you off on the outskirts of a city rather than deal with traffic in an unfamiliar metropolis. This will leave you to your own devices to find a taxi that can finish the journey.

5. Before you depart, write down the agreed upon cost of the trip so there is no question about whether it is 50 rupees or 500 rupees. Without this you could end up in a very sticky situation at the end of the day.

6. If at all possible, never take a taxi by yourself. If you’re traveling on your own, find someone with whom you can share a ride. Backpacker hostels and internet cafes are places where you could post a notice for this.

7. Indian drivers are notoriously fast and the roads are terrible. Not a good mix. If you find yourself close to having a heart attack in the back seat of a taxi because of all the weaving back and forth, the hard stops and starts and the speed, simply ask your driver to slow down. Don’t be afraid to do this! Your driver may believe that it’s karmic law determining his fate but I like to believe that I have a little more control over my life.

Road travel can provide you with a really interesting perspective of India, especially when you factor in the roadside stops, cows and scenery.

While it may be all you can do to not get carsick, try to have fun. Converse with your driver: ask about his family, sightseeing recommendations and favorite foods. Getting to know the locals may very well be the best part of your adventure!

Happy Travels!

And if you’re looking for either a North or South India tour, look no further! Join one of these upcoming tours to Incredible India!