Starting from April 2024, a new residency status for foreign workers will be introduced in Japan, with the addition of "Automotive Transport Industry" to the Specified Skills categories. This decision is expected to encourage the taxi industry to actively hire foreign workers.
The job of a taxi driver involves safely and quickly transporting customers to their destinations. However, there are several important points to be aware of in this role. This time, we will explain the key points that foreign workers should keep in mind when working as taxi drivers in Japan.
1. Prioritize Safe Driving
Firstly, as a taxi driver, it is crucial to avoid traffic violations and adhere to traffic rules and speed limits. Following legal regulations is essential, as committing traffic violations could result in losing your job. It is important to exercise utmost caution.
Many customers use taxis because they are in a hurry, and there may be cases where they request you to drive fast. Even in such situations, maintaining safe driving practices and avoiding traffic violations is essential. Always prioritize safety and follow the traffic laws.
Additionally, it's important to drive in a way that ensures the comfort of your passengers. Avoid sudden braking or acceleration, and maintain a smooth and consistent speed. By providing a comfortable ride, you will be highly valued as a taxi driver.
2. Maintaining the vehicle in a safe and comfortable condition at all times
Taxi drivers must also pay attention to vehicle maintenance. Regular inspections, oil changes, and tire checks are necessary to keep the vehicle safe. Ensuring vehicle safety is paramount for customer peace of mind.
Additionally, it is important to ensure that the taxi's interior is comfortable and pleasant for passengers. Pay attention to the cleanliness and odor of the vehicle. Regularly ventilate the car and use deodorizing sprays to manage any smells, and clean any dirt on the seats thoroughly. Maintaining a comfortable environment for passengers is a fundamental aspect of being a professional taxi driver.
3. Acquire Geographical Knowledge
Having geographical knowledge is crucial for taxi drivers. In order to choose the safest and quickest route, familiarity with local geography and road conditions is essential. While using the car's navigation system is possible, continually learning and updating geographical knowledge remains important.
In addition to memorizing roads and buildings, taxi drivers need to develop the ability to determine efficient routes. Getting stuck in traffic can prevent you from transporting passengers quickly. Therefore, it's important to understand local road conditions and avoid congested routes, such as major streets during rush hours, to ensure timely and efficient service.
Many taxi companies offer training on geographical knowledge, thus foreign drivers can learn with confidence. A wealth of geographical knowledge directly enhances a taxi driver's value.
4. Provide Polite Customer Service
Taxi driving is essentially reliant on customers. Thus, emphasis is placed on customer service.
Greeting is crucial in customer interactions. Start with a cheerful greeting to customers when they get in. A good first impression is crucial and smiling warmly makes a big difference.
Observing customers carefully is important too. Adjust the AC if they appear hot, and lower speed for elderly or unwell passengers. Such attentiveness can lead to receiving customer requests. Remember, great customer service is vital for taxi drivers.
5. Maintain Personal Appearance
Taxi drivers need to pay attention not only to the cleanliness of the vehicle but also to their personal appearance. Even if the interior of the taxi is comfortable, a driver’s disheveled or unclean appearance can make passengers uncomfortable. Here are some key points to be mindful of regarding what customers care about:
Keep shirts wrinkle-free
Fasten all buttons properly
Wear clean gloves
Ensure a neat hairstyle without bedhead
Be clean-shaven
Wear the company uniform if required
Paying attention to these details before every ride avoids leaving negative impressions based on appearance.
6. What is the content of the specific skill test for specific skill "taxi driver"?
The content of the specific skills test for taxi drivers will include:
"The test will confirm whether the candidate can perform tasks under the guidance and supervision of a transport manager, such as pre- and post-operation inspections, ensuring safe operation, creating duty records, and handling passengers. The content will be based on the written exam for the Class 2 driver's license." (Source: Ministry of Justice, "Operational Guidelines for the Specific Skills Residence Status System in the Field of Motor Transport")
Based on these details, let's create example questions to test your understanding by determining whether each statement is correct (〇) or incorrect (×).
Q: While driving a taxi, the driver is not responsible if the speed exceeds the limit upon customer request.
A: ×
【Explanation】 The road traffic law refers to exceeding the speed limit as "overspeeding," commonly known as speeding violations. As the driver is ultimately responsible for operating the taxi, they bear full responsibility for speeding violations, regardless of circumstances.
Q: Commercial vehicles like taxis and buses must undergo regular inspections every three months.
A: ○
【Explanation】 It's mandatory to conduct regular inspections and maintenance on commercial vehicles every three months. Failing the three-month inspection incurs a fine of up to 300,000 yen, so caution is advised.
Conclusion
How did you find it? Did you understand the key points to keep in mind to work as a taxi driver?
Taxi drivers are always expected to drive safely and deliver passengers to their destinations securely. Additionally, a true professional taxi driver is one who not only ensures safety but also pays attention to the finer details, striving to make the passenger's journey comfortable.
Initially, it might be challenging to focus on all these aspects, but there will be training provided after joining a taxi company. During this training period, you will learn each aspect of being a taxi driver. We look forward to seeing foreign drivers shine and excel in their roles!