What will I be doing?

Think of a limousine service as “a taxi service for the wealthy” and you will be wrong! Today’s limousine service may transport a glittering star, but, on most days will be called on to carry newlyweds away from the church, impress a date or even take a businessperson to the airport. Today’s limousine services are creatively profitable.

A limousine service does more than drive people to specific locations. A taxi can do that. A limousine service does it with style. Your limousine service will take people where they want to go while treating them like royalty. Your limousine may provide a wet bar, snacks or even a doorman along with a uniformed chauffeur.

Or not. One limousine service in the Midwest operates a shuttle service between the metro airport and the rural factory an hour away. It uses both stretch cars and passenger vans as needed. Successful? It has a fleet of six units under contract to the factory.

What will I need to start?

Of course, you need a “limousine,” but you don’t have to own it. You can rent one from a car rental agency or even another limo service as needed. Or you can lease one. Sometimes you can purchase an older unit from a service in a nearby metro area.

You will also need a working knowledge of the area you serve. However, unlike the taxi business, you typically have time to refer to maps and even drive a route if needed before picking up your client. In addition, you may need a chauffeur’s uniform or at least a business suit and cap.

You’ll probably need a license and special insurance much like that required of taxi services. Contact your regional Small Business Administration office for specific requirements in you area.

Who will my customers be?

Customers for your limousine service will be individuals and businesses. Individuals will hire you for weddings, anniversaries, parties, special events and simply for fun. Businesses may hire you as an airport transporter, to pick up important clients or to deliver a salesperson for a lasting impression.