Booking a cab is about to become fairer for passengers. The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has directed cab aggregators to remove the “Advance Tip” feature from their apps.
Many ride-hailing apps allowed users to offer a tip before the trip started, often suggesting that it could improve the chances of a driver accepting the ride.
The government has now made it clear that this practice is not allowed.
Tips Can Only Be Given After the Ride
Under the new rules, passengers can give a tip only after the trip is completed. Apps cannot ask for tips while booking the ride, before the journey begins, or during the trip.
This means passengers will no longer feel pressured to pay extra in advance. Giving a tip will remain completely optional and based on the passenger’s choice.
No Promise of Faster Ride Confirmation
The government has also banned apps from showing messages that suggest tipping will lead to faster driver acceptance or better service.
Ride aggregators cannot claim that paying a tip will improve ride confirmation, reduce waiting time, or provide any special treatment. Such features are against the Motor Vehicle Aggregator Guidelines, 2025.
Drivers Must Receive the Full Tip
The new directive also protects drivers. If a passenger gives a tip after the ride, the driver must receive the entire amount.
Cab companies or aggregators cannot deduct any part of the tip. They have also been instructed to remove any tipping features that are misleading, force passengers to pay, or violate consumer protection rules.
The ministry has asked all ride aggregators to immediately review their apps and make the required changes to comply with the new guidelines.
