The legal framework, in brief
In Geneva, taxis and VTC (private hire vehicles with driver) are two distinct categories, both governed by the cantonal law on taxis and VTC (LTVTC). Both require cantonal authorisation and a professional card — but their rights and obligations differ on several points.
Booking: a legal requirement for VTC
The strictest difference: by law, a VTC may only operate on prior order or booking — it cannot cruise looking for fares, nor stop for someone hailing it in the street. DRIVETOME operates exactly within this framework: every ride is booked in advance via WhatsApp, phone, or the website.
A taxi, conversely, has the right to enhanced public domain use: it can wait at ranks, cruise, and must legally accept fares from those who hail it or approach at a rank (with exceptions set by law, such as a destination over 80km away).
Pricing: two different logics
The law states that VTC prices are freely set, by agreement between client and driver or company — this legal framework is precisely what allows DRIVETOME to offer a fixed price announced before departure. Taxis traditionally charge by meter, under a different regulated scheme.
Signage and vehicle identification
Only taxis have the exclusive right to use the "Taxi" sign in advertising and signage. The law explicitly bars VTC from adopting features that could cause confusion with taxis or invite street hailing — a clear distinction, not a grey area.
What this means for you
- Immediate need, on the street → only a taxi can legally pick you up without prior booking
- Planned trip ahead of time → a VTC becomes a relevant option, with a known price before departure
- Group or family with luggage → both work, but VTC charges per vehicle, not per person
An important note
This page presents general information for guidance, based on current Geneva legislation (LTVTC). It does not constitute legal advice — for any precise regulatory question regarding your situation, consult the official texts on ge.ch or a legal professional.