Cab aggregators can no longer suggest that passengers pay extra before a ride to improve their chances of getting quicker confirmation.
Passengers can still voluntarily tip drivers after completing the journey, with the entire amount going to the driver.
Highlights
- Road transport ministry orders removal of pre-ride tipping prompts
- Apps cannot link tips with faster booking or driver acceptance
- Rule applies to messages, add-ons and payment options shown before rides
- Voluntary tips will continue to be allowed after the journey ends
- Aggregators cannot deduct any amount from tips paid to drivers
- Cab apps have been asked to comply with Motor Vehicle Aggregator Guidelines, 2025
The action follows reports of cab booking platforms displaying prompts such as “Advance Tip”, “Choose an Add-on” or messages suggesting that paying extra could improve a passenger’s chances of getting quicker ride confirmation.
Passengers booking cabs through ride-hailing platforms such as Uber and Ola will no longer be prompted to pay a tip before their ride is accepted or completed. The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has directed motor vehicle aggregators to immediately remove such features from their apps and digital platforms.
The government has clarified that passengers cannot be encouraged to make an additional payment with the impression that it could influence whether a driver accepts their booking or how quickly a cab is assigned.
Under the directive, cab aggregators cannot display any pre-ride tip prompt, message, add-on or payment option that suggests paying extra could affect driver acceptance, ride confirmation time, driver allocation, waiting time or the quality of service.
The ministry has asked aggregators to review their mobile applications and other digital platforms and remove features that do not comply with the Motor Vehicle Aggregator Guidelines, 2025.
However, the government has not banned tipping altogether.
Under Clause 14.15 of the Motor Vehicle Aggregator Guidelines, 2025, passengers can voluntarily tip a driver after completing their journey. The entire tip amount must be transferred to the driver, and the aggregator cannot make any deduction from it.
The ministry has stressed that tipping should remain completely voluntary. Platforms cannot use misleading or manipulative mechanisms that make passengers believe an additional payment is necessary to receive a cab or better service.
The latest directive follows an earlier direction from the Central Consumer Protection Authority asking ride-hailing companies to stop the practice of seeking tips during the booking process.
The government has now asked aggregators to make the required changes without delay and ensure that their apps comply with the 2025 guidelines.
