Yes, as of 2026, all licensed black cabs in Edinburgh are required to accept card payments, including contactless, Apple Pay, and Google Pay. This mandate was introduced to bring the fleet in line with modern passenger expectations and the rise of rideshare competitors like Uber. Drivers must have a functioning card terminal prominently displayed, and they cannot refuse a fare based on the payment method. While most "Hackney carriage" drivers prefer card for its speed and security, it is always a polite "pro-tip" to mention you are paying by card when you first enter the taxi to ensure their terminal is active. In Edinburgh, black cabs can be "hailed" on the street or found at designated ranks near Waverley Station and the Royal Mile. They use a metered fare system regulated by the City of Edinburgh Council, and unlike some private hire vehicles, there is no "surge pricing." Whether you are traveling from the airport to the Old Town or heading to the Shore in Leith, you can rely on the convenience of "tapping" your card at the end of the journey, just as you would in London or other major UK cities.