Most maxi taxis have 6 to 8 seats. Some bigger ones have 9 to 11 seats. The exact number depends on the size of the taxi and the rules in your area. If you are booking a ride for a group, it helps to know this before you call.
What Is a Maxi Taxi?
A maxi taxi is a large taxi, like a van. It is made for groups of people who want to travel together. A normal taxi car usually takes only 4 passengers. A maxi taxi takes many more, so your whole family or friend group can ride in one vehicle.
People often book maxi taxis for airport trips, weddings, birthday parties, school trips and nights out. They also have more room for bags, which is very useful when you are travelling with suitcases.
Seats in a Maxi Taxi
Here is a simple way to understand the numbers:
- 5 to 6 seats: This is the smallest size. It is good for a small family or a few friends.
- 7 to 8 seats: This is the most common size. If you book a maxi taxi without asking for anything special, this is usually what you get.
- 9 to 11 seats: This is the biggest size. It is made for large groups, parties and events.
One important thing to remember is that the driver’s seat is counted separately in most places. So when a company says “7 seater,” it often means the driver plus 6 passengers. Always ask the company whether the number includes the driver, so you do not get a surprise on the day.
Why the Number of Seats Can Change
Not every maxi taxi looks the same inside. A few things can change how many seats you really get:
- Wheelchair space: Some maxi taxis keep a spot free for a wheelchair. This means they have fewer regular seats.
- Child seats: Baby seats and booster seats take up extra room. One big child seat can use almost two adult seats.
- Luggage: If the back seats are folded down to make space for big bags, there will be fewer places to sit.
- Local rules: Every country or state has its own law about how many people can ride in a taxi. The driver cannot carry more than the law allows.
Can You Fit Extra People?
The short answer is no. Every person in the taxi needs their own seat and their own seatbelt. Squeezing in an extra person is dangerous, and in most places it is against the law. If the driver says no, they are doing it to keep everyone safe. They could also get a fine or lose their licence.
So if your group has 8 people, do not book a 7 seater and hope for the best. Book a bigger one, or book two taxis.
How to Pick the Right Size
Choosing the right taxi is easy if you follow a few simple steps:
- Count everyone. Include adults, children and babies.
- Count your bags. Big suitcases take a lot of space.
- Tell the company everything. Give them the exact number of people and bags when you book.
- Ask about the driver. Check if the seat number includes the driver or not.
- Choose a bigger size if you are close to the limit. A little extra room makes the ride much more comfortable, especially on a long trip.
Conclusion
Most maxi taxis have 6 to 8 seats, and the biggest ones have up to 11. Always check whether the driver is counted in that number, and make sure there is a seat and a seatbelt for every person.
Maxi taxis are fewer than normal taxis and get booked up fast, especially on holidays, weekends and event days, so book a few days ahead to get the size you want. When you are not sure, pick the bigger size. A little planning will give you a safe, comfortable and stress free trip.
Booking in Melbourne? Our maxi is a Toyota HiAce that seats up to 11 passengers. See our maxi taxi service for a fare estimate, or call 0412 456 588 for a fixed quote.
Related guide: How Many People Fit in a Maxi Taxi? covers how luggage, child seats and wheelchairs change the real capacity.
