What do I need to drive a taxi?

Free guidance on starting your taxi business – we'll help you every step of the way

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Official requirements are set by Traficom

(the Finnish Transport and Communications Agency)

Learn more
1

Prepare for the taxi driver exam

There's no mandatory course – but preparation helps.

woman looks at the laptop

Option A:

Study on your own (free)

Use official Traficom materials and other study resources (like those we provide at Naistaxi). This option is free, but requires self-discipline.

Option B:

Take a preparation course

Courses run 1–5 days and cost around €200–600. They can increase your chances of passing on the first try.

2

Get your taxi driving licence

If you already have a normal Category B driving licence, you're halfway there!

To qualify, you need to:

  • Have a Category B driving licence, issues at least 1 year ago (Finland or EU/EEA)
  • Pass a Group 2 medical examination
  • Pass the taxi driver exam (in Finnish or Swedish)
  • Have a clean record (no serious criminal offences)

How long does it take?

The full process may take as little as 4–6 weeks.

What are the costs?

  • Medical exam (depends on where you do it)
  • Taxi driver exam (~€50)
  • Licence application (~€50)
3

Register a business

In Finland, taxi drivers typically operate as entrepreneurs – even when driving with a fleet partner. This step allows you to invoice, receive payments legally, and operate professionally.

woman chooses between two ways

You have two options

  • Sole trader (toiminimi):
  • ~€60

  • Limited company (Oy):
  • ~€300

    Register through the Finnish Business Information System (YTJ)

    ⏱ Processing time: usually 1-3 weeks

    Learn more
    4

    Choose how you want to work

    Once you have your taxi driving licence and registered business, you have two main paths:

    option a

    Drive with a Fleet Partner (lower startup cost)

    How it works:
    • Use the fleet company's car
    • Operate under their Taxi Transport Licence
    How you earn:
    • Commission (usually 30–45% of fares), or
    • Revenue share model
    Why this works:
    • Lower financial risk
    • No additional licencing or insurance needed
    • Ideal if you're new to the industry

    option b

    Start your own taxi business (full independence)

    If you want full control and higher earning potential, this path is for you.

    You will additionally need:
    • Your own Taxi Transport Licence
    • Vehicle approved for taxi use
    • Commercial taxi insurance
    Official entrepreneur guide

    This path gives you maximum freedom – but requires more investment and responsibility.

    Which option is right for you?

    IF YOU’RE JUST STARTING:

    Join a fleet partner first. Learn the industry with lower risk.

    IF YOU’RE JUST STARTING:

    IF YOU’RE READY TO RUN YOUR OWN OPERATION:

    Apply for your Taxi Transport Licence and operate independently.

    IF YOU’RE READY TO RUN YOUR OWN OPERATION:

    Starting a taxi career in Finland is straightforward:

    Get licensed. Register your business. Choose your path.

    We're here to support you through the process 💜

    No experience needed. Fill in the form and we’ll help you get started.