Taxi in Norway: Rules, Prices and Customs
- Damian Brzeski
- Apr 17
- 14 min read
In Norway, even a taxi ride can be an… experience. Electric cars gliding silently through the fjords, drivers acting as local guides, and instead of stress – an app that knows more than you do.
But be careful – comfort, precision and Nordic peace come at a price here. So before you wave your hand at “Drosje”, check what awaits you.
What are taxis like in Norway?
Taxis in Norway are tailor-made for the Nordic lifestyle – simple, reliable and increasingly electric. While classic white cars once dominated, today you can find vehicles in a variety of colours and styles, depending on which taxi company in Norway operates them.
It is therefore worth not only considering the colour, but paying attention to the "Taxi" sign (or " Drosje " in Norwegian) on the roof and the markings on the doors - the company logo, contact details, identification number.
Electric vehicles are becoming increasingly popular – in cities like Oslo and Tromsø, they are almost standard. This indicates not only the country's ecological awareness, but also its concern for a quiet and comfortable ride.
Sometimes companies decide on special branding – for example, with green accents, which signal that the car is " eco-friendly ".
An illuminated roof sign is a signal to you that the car is free. If it is lit, wave boldly! And if not, it is better to order a taxi via an app or by phone – especially in the evenings or in smaller towns.
In the next part, we will take a look at how a taxi actually works in Norway , what taxi services are available, and what to look out for before getting into a car with the " Drosje " sign on it.
How does a taxi work in Norway
A taxi in Norway is not just a means of transport – it is often a choice of comfort, independence and... common sense, especially if you do not want to worry about schedules or transfers. But before you catch the first free car on the street, it is worth knowing how it all works.
What types of taxi services are available in Norway?
There are many different options on the market, from classic rides to pre- booked transfers . Airport taxi transfers are also popular – ideal if you arrive at night or with large luggage. You can also opt for a maxitaxi, a larger vehicle for a group or family.
An interesting alternative are companies offering premium taxi services – with a private driver, a luxury fleet or even a sign with your name on it. Sounds like something from a movie? In Norway, it's simply an option.
Taxi marking and registration obligation
Every legal taxi company in Norway must have a license and vehicles must be marked accordingly.
In practice, this means that you will find not only the "Taxi" sign on the vehicle, but also the side number, company details and registration. This way, you can easily verify whether a given taxi ride is a legal and safe ride .
Difficult road conditions and their impact on travel
Norway can be capricious – snow, rain, winding roads… but the local taxi drivers are ready for it. They have experience, properly prepared cars (often 4x4) and winter tires. Thanks to this, even in difficult conditions you can count on a calm and comfortable ride .
It is worth remembering, however, that in bad weather the journey may take longer – it is better to give yourself some extra time.
Taxi prices and regulations
Although Norway is considered an expensive country, taxi rides – especially in cities – have recently been regulated to ensure that no one gets “ripped off”. From 2025 , maximum taxi rates in Norway will apply, which are intended to make life easier for tourists and locals.
Maximum taxi rates in Norway
In the largest cities, such as Oslo , Bergen and Stavanger , the government has set price limits:
Initial fee : NOK 75.40 (approx. €6.40)
Price per kilometer : up to NOK 16.70 (approx. €1.42)
Price per minute of parking : up to NOK 10.90 (approx. €0.93)
This protection applies mainly to rides ordered "off the street" - the most spontaneous ones. It is worth adding, however, that every taxi company in Norway can offer a lower price, but not higher than the agreed rate.
What are taxi prices in Oslo and other cities?
How much does an average taxi ride cost? Here are some sample routes:
Oslo :
From Oslo Airport Gardermoen to city centre: approx. 600 NOK (approx. 51 €)
From the center to Norsk Folkemuseum: approx. 230 NOK (approx. 19.50 €)
Bergen :
From Flesland Airport to city centre: 580–630 NOK (approx. 49–53 €)
From the city centre to Fantoft Stave Church: 294 NOK during the day (approx. 25 €), 390 NOK at night (approx. 32 €)
Trondheim :
From Værnes Airport to city centre: 400–600 NOK (approx. 34–51 €)
From the city centre to Sverresborg: 145 NOK during the day (approx. 12 €), 210 NOK at night (approx. 18 €)
Tromso :
From the airport to the city centre: approx. 250 NOK (approx. 21 €)
From the center to the Fjellheisen cable car: 240 NOK during the day (approx. 20 €), 330 NOK at night (approx. 28 €)
Stavanger :
From the airport to the city centre: 400–580 NOK (approx. 34–49 €)
It is worth using apps that show estimated costs – e.g. AtoB or local solutions such as Oslo Taxi .
Comparison with public transport
Is it worth taking a taxi when Norway has great public transport? It depends. If you are short on time, have a lot of luggage, children or need a quiet and comfortable ride , a taxi may be the best choice.
All the more so because many services also offer taxi transfer bookings with the option of cancellation or flexible route changes.
Additional services and travel personalization
Taxis in Norway are not just about getting from A to B. More and more companies are offering extras that can turn an ordinary ride into something really convenient – especially if you care about comfort or are travelling with family, children or pets.
Taxi with a chauffeur by the hour and a driver with a nameplate
Some taxi companies in Norway , such as AtoB , specialize in premium services – for example, you can hire a driver by the hour or order a taxi transfer with a driver waiting for you with a name sign at the airport. Perfect if you’re flying for business or want to surprise someone important.
Child seats, pet transport and additional stops
Most taxis will easily provide a quiet and comfortable ride with children - just specify in advance that you need a seat (you can choose the type: infant, child or booster).
Scandinavians, and Norwegians in particular, are known for their rigorous approach to road safety.
In Norway, a child seat is not just a recommendation – it is an obligation! Every child under 135 cm must be transported in an appropriate seat , even in a taxi.
In practice, this means that the average Norwegian will not get into a car with a toddler without proper protection. Children between 135 and 150 cm should also use a seat if it is available in the vehicle.
Therefore, when booking a taxi transfer, it is worth making it clear that you are travelling with a child – most companies offer this option, but you must report it in advance. Failure to provide a child seat may result in refusal of transport – drivers are legally obliged to comply with these rules.
Transporting pets is not a problem either, but it is worth asking in advance, especially in the case of larger pets.
If you’re planning a longer taxi ride , you can plan extra stops in advance – many apps give you this option when booking your taxi transfer .
Reservation and technology
In a country as modern as Norway , ordering a taxi is a pure pleasure – without stress, queues or incomprehensible phone calls. Just a few clicks in the app and you already know who is coming to pick you up, for how much and when.
Mobile applications for ordering a taxi
Among the most popular options are Kiwitaxi and Welcome Pickup, especially if you are planning a taxi transfer from the airport or hotel . It offers a full taxi transfer booking in advance, the possibility of choosing the class of vehicle, child seat, payment in advance and the option of cancellation - without any complications. It is a great solution if you want to have everything under control before leaving.
Other convenient apps include:
AtoB – offers predictable price, different vehicle classes and premium options.
Norgestaxi – one of the largest companies in the country, offers reliable service and easy booking.
TaxiKurir Stavanger , Stavanger Taxi , Siddis Taxi , Sola Taxi – these are local taxi companies that have their own booking systems, often also available via websites.
With these apps, you have at your fingertips not only a price list and a route map, but also driver data, ratings, and vehicle model. It's like traveling with a plan in your hand.
Taxi booking online and through external companies
In addition to the app, booking transfers is also possible through the websites of companies such as Oslo Taxi or a company offering international transport services such as Kiwitaxi . Usually, all you need is an online form, a few clicks and you're done.
Don't have a smartphone? Don't worry - in Norway, the classic method still works: you call the taxi headquarters and arrange a specific time. In larger cities, such as Oslo or Stavanger , such reservations are carried out very precisely.
Airport Transfer in Norway
When you land in a foreign country, the last thing you want is to wander around the terminal with your suitcase in mind, looking for transport. That’s why an airport taxi transfer is one of the most popular options for tourists visiting Norway .
Book your airport transfer online
The most convenient option? Booking a taxi transfer before you arrive. Apps like AtoB or Norgestaxi let you order a ride by providing your flight number, arrival time, and even special requests, such as a child seat or an extra stop.
These companies offer a "meet & greet" service, where the driver waits for you with a nameplate just outside the arrivals hall. This is a real stress-saver, especially after a long flight.
Flexible cancellation and additional travel options
Many transfer booking companies allow free cancellation up to 24 hours before the trip.
This gives you flexibility – in case of changes in plans or delayed flights.
It’s worth noting that some services – especially international transport companies like Kiwitaxi – have a real-time flight tracking option. This lets the driver know if you’re delayed and adjusts the pick-up time.
Premium vehicles and ski boxes
If you’re travelling with skis or a snowboard – no problem. Just make sure you mention in advance that you need space for your equipment – most operators have vehicles with a large boot or special boxes.
Or maybe you dream of a quiet and comfortable ride in a luxurious interior? Then choose premium class. Air conditioning, leather seats and discreet service will make you feel like a VIP, even if you fly with a budget airline.
In the next section, we’ll take a look at who’s behind the wheel – what requirements a taxi driver in Norway has to meet.
The most popular taxi companies in Norway
The taxi market in Norway is diverse – from large nationwide networks to local players who know every corner of their city. Choosing the right company can affect not only the price, but also the quality and a quiet, comfortable ride .
The largest taxi companies in the country
At the national level, there are several brands that offer taxi services in many cities and also operate via mobile applications:
Kiwitaxi – an international transportation company known for its high-quality service, easy booking and premium options.
AtoB – specializes in comfortable transfers, including to airports, and offers business class vehicles.
Norgestaxi – one of the largest taxi companies in the country. Serves many cities, operates via an app and offers different types of vehicles.
Each of these brands focuses on convenience, price transparency and options tailored to the passenger's needs – from booking a taxi transfer to choosing the class of car.
Local businesses in Oslo and Stavanger
In large cities, it is also worth checking out local taxi companies , which often offer competitive prices and excellent knowledge of the area:
oslo taxi – the most recognizable brand in the capital, offering rides throughout the city and surrounding areas. Also serves Oslo Airport, Gardermoen .
Stavanger Taxi , TaxiKurir Stavanger , Siddis Taxi , Sola Taxi – these are reliable companies operating in the Stavanger region , known for their punctuality and good customer service.
It is worth noting that each of these companies allows you to book transfers online or through apps, and often offer amenities such as child seats, card payments, or larger vehicles for groups.
In the next part, we'll take a closer look at taxis in Oslo – where and how to order them, and how much it all costs.
Taxi in Oslo
Oslo is not only the capital of Norway , but also a place where the taxi market works like a well-oiled machine. Due to the large tourist and business traffic, taxi availability is really high here - at any time of day or night.
Taxi availability and popularity in the capital
You can easily find taxi ranks in central Oslo – usually near hotels, train stations and tourist attractions. You can also hail a taxi from the street (when the “Taxi” sign on the roof is illuminated) or, increasingly popular, use a mobile app.
The most popular ones are oslo taxi , Kiwitaxi , AtoB and Norgestaxi – each of them allows you to quickly book a taxi transfer without stress and language misunderstandings.
It is worth adding that Oslo is one of the cities where electric vehicles are becoming the standard, and many companies offer a quiet and comfortable ride in eco-style.
Taxi prices in Oslo
A ride from Oslo Airport Gardermoen to the city centre costs around NOK 600 (approx. €51). Shorter journeys around the city usually cost between NOK 200 and 300 (€17–26), depending on the time of day and any additional fees (e.g. for luggage or parking).
The maximum rate per kilometre in Oslo is NOK 16.70 (approx. €1.42), according to regulations in force from 2025.
In Oslo, a taxi is still a popular choice – not only as an alternative to public transport, but also a way to get around the city quickly, comfortably and punctually.
Taxi in Stavanger
Stavanger , best known as the center of Norway's oil industry, is a city where taxis play an important role - for both residents and visitors. Although not as large as Oslo, Stavanger has a well-organized taxi network.
Taxi services in Stavanger
As in other Norwegian cities, there are also several well-known and proven brands operating here:
Stavanger Taxi – the most recognizable company in the city, offering standard rides, taxi transfers and airport services.
TaxiKurir Stavanger – popular with locals and tourists, known for its quick response times.
Siddis Taxi and Sola Taxi – smaller but very well rated local companies.
Most of these operators allow you to book a taxi transfer via apps or by phone. It is worth mentioning that Kiwitaxi also operates here, offering a quiet and comfortable ride , as well as AtoB - an option for those expecting a slightly higher standard.
Taxi companies operating in the region
Local taxi companies in Stavanger often have larger vehicles, which is useful for group trips or trips with large luggage. All of the above companies allow card payments, and interestingly, they are increasingly offering electric vehicles.
Prices are similar to those in Oslo – the rate per kilometre does not exceed NOK 16.70 (approx. €1.42), and a taxi ride from the airport to the city centre costs around NOK 400–580 (approx. €34–49).
Taxi prices in other cities in Norway
While major cities like Oslo and Stavanger have well-known rates, it's also worth knowing how much a taxi ride will cost in other parts of Norway .
Here are some examples:
Bergen :
Flesland Airport - Center: NOK 580-630 (approx. €49-53)
Center - Fantoft Stave Church: 294 NOK during the day (approx. 25 €), 390 NOK at night (approx. 32 €)
Maximum rate per kilometer: 16.70 NOK (approx. 1.42 €)
Trondheim :
Værnes Airport - Center: NOK 400-600 (approx. €34-51)
Sverresborg Museum Centre: 145 NOK during the day (approx. 12 €), 210 NOK at night (approx. 18 €)
Maximum rate per kilometer: 16.70 NOK (approx. 1.42 €)
Tromso :
Airport - city centre: approx. 250 NOK (approx. 21 €)
Center - Fjellheisen cable car: 240 NOK during the day (approx. 20 €), 330 NOK at night (approx. 28 €)
Maximum rate per kilometer: 16.70 NOK (approx. 1.42 €)
It is worth remembering that the final price may vary depending on the company, time of day, road conditions and any additional fees, such as parking, luggage or road tolls.
Requirements for taxi drivers
Have you ever wondered what it takes to become a taxi driver in Norway? Contrary to appearances, it's not that simple - the country of fjords takes safety and professionalism in passenger transport very seriously.
Taxi license and the process of obtaining it
Anyone who wants to operate a taxi service in Norway must have a special license (Norwegian: Yrkessjåførkompetanse – YSK), as well as a suitable driving license. The candidate must be at least 20 years old and have at least 2 years of driving experience.
In addition, the following is required:
a medical certificate confirming good health,
no criminal record (checked by the police),
completing a specialist course or passing an exam organised by Statens vegvesen (the Norwegian Public Roads Administration).
Some local taxi companies , e.g. in Stavanger , also require in-house training and knowledge of the city's topography.
Theoretical exam and language knowledge
To pass the exam, you need to demonstrate knowledge of road traffic regulations, professional ethics, and customer service. Additionally, and this is very important, the candidate must know Norwegian at least at B1 level. Without this, you can't do anything, because the ability to communicate with passengers is essential.
For foreigners it is often required:
residence and work permit,
exchange of driving license for Norwegian after a specified period,
and in some cases – documented residence in Norway for at least 4 years.
Financial guarantee as a condition of the license
To run your own business as a licensed taxi driver , you also need to provide a so-called financial guarantee – a measure that is intended to protect passengers and ensure the stability of the company. This solution is embedded in the Norwegian model of social trust.
In short – to become a taxi driver in Norway, it is not enough to have the will and a steering wheel. You really need to demonstrate knowledge, responsibility and... a little patience.
Taxi and tourism in Norway
If you are thinking about Norway as a place for an unforgettable trip, then you need to know one thing – taxis play a really important role in the tourism of this country.
From comfortable taxi transfers from airports, through fjord trips, to night rides from restaurants to hotels – a taxi is not only an emergency option, but often the first choice of a conscious traveller.
Taxi service to fjords and tourist attractions
Many spectacular places, such as Geirangerfjord, Preikestolen or the Lofoten region, are not well connected to public transport.
That is why many tourists decide to book a taxi transfer , especially if they are traveling in a group or with large luggage (e.g. photographic or trekking equipment).
Taxi offers convenience, flexibility and sometimes the only option to get to places that buses can’t reach. Some local taxi companies in Norway even offer guided tours – perfect if you want to combine a leisurely and comfortable ride with learning about local history and interesting facts.
The role of taxis in servicing tourist traffic
Taxis are an integral part of the tourist infrastructure in cities such as Oslo , Bergen , Trondheim , Tromsø and Stavanger . In these locations, taxis are often used for:
access to ferry ports,
visiting museums, galleries and ski jumps,
trips to restaurants or accommodation,
moving between attractions scattered throughout the city.
Importantly, in the summer and winter seasons (i.e. when tourist traffic is the highest), many companies increase their fleet and availability.
Thanks to mobile applications such as AtoB , Norgestaxi , oslo taxi or Stavanger Taxi , tourists can easily plan their trip in advance – with the option of cancelling, choosing the car class or adding a child seat.
Taxi in Norway is not just a ride, it is part of the experience. And if we add to this the Norwegian standard of quality, cleanliness of vehicles, professionalism of drivers and... often breathtaking views from the window - it turns out to be much more than just a ride.
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