Private Hire Drivers: What You Need to Know About Waiting Time & Cancellation Fees Across Platforms
One of the most frustrating experiences for private hire drivers is when riders are late… or worse, don’t show up at all.
Whether you’re driving for Grab, Gojek, TADA, CDG Zig, or Ryde, it’s important to understand how each platform handles waiting time charges and no-show cancellations — so you don’t end up wasting time and losing money.
Here’s a helpful guide you can refer to any time:
⏱️ Waiting Time Charges – At a Glance
Most platforms give a grace period before waiting fees kick in. After that, you’re entitled to a fee — and in some cases, a higher fee if the wait drags on.
| Platform | Grace Period | Initial Fee | Subsequent Fee | Maximum Cap |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grab | 3 mins | $3 | $6 after 8 mins, $9 after 14 mins | No cap |
| Gojek | 4 mins | $3 | $6 after 9 mins, $9 after 14 mins | $9 |
| TADA | 4 mins | $3 | $6 after 8 mins, $9 after 12 mins | $9 |
| CDG Zig | 4 mins | $3 | $6 after 9 mins, $9 after 14 mins | $9 |
| Ryde | 3 mins | $4.50 flat | – | – |
Note: These figures are based on the most recent available information. Platforms may update their policies over time.
❌ No-Show Cancellation Fees
If your rider doesn’t turn up, you’re usually allowed to cancel and receive a no-show fee — once a minimum wait period is met.
| Platform | Fee | When It Applies |
|---|---|---|
| Grab | $4 | After 5 mins |
| Gojek | $4 | After 4 mins |
| TADA | $2 | After 4 mins |
| CDG Zig | $4 | After 5 mins |
| Ryde | $4.50 | After 3 mins |
What Drivers Should Know
- You’ll either receive a waiting fee or cancellation fee, not both for the same trip.
- It pays to monitor your timer and keep your rider updated.
- If your rider goes silent, cancel only after the minimum threshold — that’s when the no-show fee applies.
- The following fees do not apply if you are providing illegal ride-hailing services through Telegram.
Bookmark This Page
We’ll update this guide when platforms change their policies — so it remains your go-to reference as a PHV driver in Singapore.
Have you had issues with late riders or unfair charges? Share your experience with us in the comments or tag Firstlane in your stories.
