How do you go independent as a VTC driver without depending on Uber and Bolt?

Why is depending on the apps expensive?

The commission comes first. An app like Uber charges a variable service fee, often estimated at around 25% of the fare.

The rest is less visible. The price isn't yours: the app sets it and can change it overnight. Neither is the passenger, who stays the app's client, with no way for you to reach them again. And a deactivated account means zero income that same day.

Plenty of drivers spread the risk over several apps. In 2024, 76% of VTC drivers worked on more than one platform (ARPE, ONT3P observatory, 2024). The dependency stays the same, though, because none of those apps lets you keep your clients.

What do you need before taking direct clients?

1. Your VTC professional card and your entry in the VTC register, up to date.
2. A self-employed status: micro-entreprise, SASU or EURL. A micro-entreprise is enough to start; after that, the right choice depends on your turnover and costs, which is a question for an accountant.
3. Insurance that covers carrying passengers for payment on all your rides, not only those ordered through an app.
4. A way to invoice, with one invoice per ride and your usual details. VAT on passenger transport is 10% if you are registered; below a turnover threshold you can be exempt (franchise en base). Check the current threshold with URSSAF or your accountant.
5. Your contract, if you rent your car or drive for a fleet. Some restrict rides taken outside the apps, so read it before you start.

How do you move from the apps to direct, step by step?

For the first three months, get equipped and hand things out: a business card with a QR code, a page in your name, a Google profile. Give the card to every passenger who asks how to reach you.

As bookings come in, block slots for your clients. Early-morning transfers and business trips get booked ahead, so keep those free and fill the rest with the apps.

Only cut the apps when the numbers say so. Compare your net income per hour direct and on the apps, counting pickup and waiting time.

How do you know when you can cut back on the apps?

Worked example: on the app, an hour pays €32 gross (the middle of the most common range, ARPE, 2024). Direct, a €50 transfer that takes you 1 h 15 including pickup pays €40 an hour. As long as your direct clients fill enough hours at that level, every hour you move over to them pays more. Swap in your own figures.

What are the risks of working direct?

The main one is that there is no minimum income: the floors agreed at the ARPE (€9 net per ride, €30 an hour) apply only to the platforms. Income is also less regular at first, while clients get into the habit of coming back.

Then there are unpaid rides. Ask for written confirmation of every booking, and payment per ride while a client is new.

Plying for hire is still banned. Every ride must be booked before pickup. See Can a VTC driver take direct clients?

What do you need to work direct?

WhatsApp Business, a Google Business Profile and a spreadsheet for your bookings and invoices cost nothing and are enough to start. You can also put up your own site on WordPress, if you like tinkering.

Chauffeur Pro gives VTC and private-hire drivers a website, a QR code and business cards so their passengers book them direct, with no commission. The client calls or messages you, and you agree the price between you. Chauffeur Pro is not affiliated with any ride-hailing app.

Frequently asked questions

Can you be an independent VTC driver without any platform?

Yes. French law does not require a VTC driver to use an app. You need a professional card, an entry in the VTC register, and an advance booking for every ride. In practice most drivers start alongside the apps, until they have enough clients.

Do you need a company to take direct clients?

No. A micro-entreprise is enough to invoice your own clients. A SASU or EURL can pay off with higher turnover or heavy costs, and an accountant will tell you where you stand.

Does my insurance cover my direct rides?

Not necessarily. Some policies only cover rides ordered through a platform. Ask your insurer to confirm in writing that carrying passengers for payment is covered on all your rides.

Can an app stop me from having my own clients?

If you are self-employed, nothing stops you having your own clients outside the apps. A ride you took on the app is still under its terms, though, so don't suggest redoing the ride outside the app.