Do taxis in USVI take credit cards?

Some taxis accept credit cards, but the majority of taxis in St. Thomas are cash only. Credit card customers should alert the dispatcher or taxi driver of their intent to pay with a credit card prior to boarding the vehicle.



As of early 2026, credit card acceptance in U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI) taxis remains extremely hit-or-miss. While many drivers on St. Thomas and St. Croix are beginning to use mobile payment readers like Square, the majority of "open-air safari" taxis and traditional cabs still operate on a cash-only basis. Even those that "accept" cards may claim the machine is "broken" for short trips to avoid processing fees. On St. John, cash is even more dominant. It is vital to carry small denominations ($1, $5, and $10 bills) as drivers often lack change for large bills. Always confirm the fare and payment method before the driver pulls away to avoid uncomfortable situations at your destination, as USVI taxi rates are regulated by the government and based on the number of passengers.

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Taxi Dispatch – (340) 774-7457 – Taxi Service in St Thomas – The number one source for immediate pickup on St Thomas.

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Thomas. While many places on island accept major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and American Express), there are many venues which will only accept cash (taxis, ferry terminals, customs docks, and some vendors and restaurants).

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Tipping is the same as the US or Europe - 15% of your restaurant check, more if service has been exceptional. An extra dollar or two for your taxi driver is fine, more if he/she handles bags or conducts a good island tour. Being thoughtful and considerate is appreciated anywhere in the world.

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The Virgin Islands Department of Planning and Natural Resources (VIDPNR) and the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) ensures that potable water is safe to drink.

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Public Transportation The Vitran Bus System services various areas of the island and usually runs Monday - Friday. Vitran buses run along Centerline Road. The buses travel from the Cruz Bay ferry dock, through to Coral Bay, Salt Pond Bay and back to Cruz Bay.

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Why do taxi drivers only take cash? Immediate payment: Cash payments provide immediate payment to the driver without any delay or potential chargebacks, unlike card payments which may be subject to processing times and potential chargebacks.

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What is The Popular Drink in The Virgin Islands? Rum is the base of many local cocktails, including the popular Painkiller, a sweet and creamy blend of rum, pineapple juice, orange juice, and cream of coconut.

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Between December and February is the best time to go to St. Thomas. Temperatures are pleasant, averaging 79? (26?). December can see some rain, mainly in the form of short, sharp late afternoon showers as humidity builds up, but this decreases through January and February.

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St. Thomas is a very safe island. It is a protectorate territory of the United States, and because of this the same laws and rules are obeyed that would be expected in any U.S. city back in North American mainland.

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For visitors who wish to take in the sights, a variety of options exist. You can enjoy an island tour via safari bus or taxi, rent a car or motor bike, or travel on the Vitran public bus system.

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Daytime essentials include t-shirts and camisoles, sarong or shorts as most people spend their time on the beach. Keep your swimwear for the beach, beach bars and hotel pools, though. Wear plenty of sunscreen (we love the Riemann P20 range for 10 hour protection), sunglasses and a sunhat.

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Most drivers pay for the privilege of driving an agency cab. Your tips are all they make in salary. 15-20%. And if you're thinking of not tipping that much, please don't take a cab.

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