Problems and Solutions for Limousine Drivers

Limousine driving can be a great career; but like any other kind of work, it has its advantages and disadvantages.  When you hear about limo drivers getting $500 in tips, it sounds like a great job.  And sometimes a driver does have a lot of down time while waiting on clients.  However it is also a rigorous job, and in many cases, limousine drivers are hired as independent contractors which means the driver has to learn all about the legalities of self-employment.

The Basics

At the beginning of his or her career, a limousine driver will probably only have to do the basics:  drive the car, be timely, treat the customer well, and keep the vehicle prepped and clean.  It is not about dozing in driveways while clients do business in boardrooms. 

First, a limousine driver must know how to handle such a long vehicle.  Limousines can stretch up to 120 feet long.  If you have had experience driving a bus or a tractor-trailer, this may be easier to learn.  If not, start with the 40-foot vehicles.  Parallel parking, highway driving, merging and turning are all different in a limousine.  And when the barrier is closed between the front and back, the driver is not able to use the rear view mirror.

Second, a limousine driver must treat the clients well.  For some clients this may mean opening doors, for others, it might be making a few stops en route.  Either way, a limo driver will be more successful if she or he knows how to handle everyone with courtesy, not just executive types, but also the squealing bachelorette parties and the sloppy drunks. 
To avoid problems and complaints, the limousine driver should always have his vehicle prepped before a run.  A prepped vehicle is full of gas and other fluids, has proper tire pressure, a full mini-bar, and is clean inside and out. 

Legal Issues

In some states, limousine drivers need a commercial driver’s license; some need extra permissions on their license to drive the longest and biggest vehicles.  Check with your state’s department of transportation for details. 

Drivers must also know their legal rights in their state.  For example, it is generally unethical, or even illegal for a limo company to ask the driver to pay for gas and wait for reimbursement.  Labor laws also provide for the driver to receive the tips, not for the tips to go to the company.  Talk to other drivers, do your research and meet up with others in the same professional to find out about norms in your state.