Class Code 7365 covers Taxicab Operations in California, including drivers and staff whose primary job is transporting passengers for hire. The approved pure premium rate for September 1, 2026 is $8.135 per $100 of payroll — a key factor in workers' comp cost for taxi companies and owner-operators.
This classification applies to businesses whose core activity is providing taxicab service: street-hail and prearranged passenger pickups, airport runs, and local taxi dispatch operations. It covers employees who operate taxicabs, meter operators, fare collectors working inside or attached to taxi operations, and dispatch personnel directly supporting cab service. Light, routine vehicle checks, fueling, cleaning and loading passenger luggage performed by drivers are included under this class; heavy mechanical repair or dedicated vehicle body work belongs to automotive repair classifications. It does not automatically cover unrelated on-site maintenance crews or non-driving logistics staff who perform different duties.
The pure premium rate of $8.135 per $100 of payroll is the WCIRB-approved lost-cost amount that reflects the expected cost of claims for this classification. Insurers and PEOs start with that pure premium then add expense loads, profit margins, and any assigned experience modification factors, which means your final premium depends on your payroll reporting, claim history, and insurer adjustments. Accurate classification, timely loss control, and a strong claims/return-to-work program can materially reduce the premium you ultimately pay.
California employers in taxi operations must implement an Injury and Illness Prevention Program (IIPP) and provide training specific to driving hazards, violence prevention, and vehicle maintenance hazards. Employers should also maintain documentation of defensive driving training, routine vehicle inspections, and first-aid/emergency response plans; serious work-related injuries must be reported to Cal/OSHA within required timeframes. In addition to Cal/OSHA requirements, taxi employers must comply with DMV licensing rules, local taxi permit regulations and any airport authority operating standards.
A PEO like Key HR can consolidate payroll and workers' comp administration, ensure accurate classification and payroll reporting for Class Code 7365, and manage claims centrally to control costs. Key HR can deploy tailored loss-control resources—defensive driving programs, driver background checks, drug and alcohol testing protocols, vehicle inspection templates, and return-to-work strategies—that reduce claim frequency and severity and improve your overall workers' comp performance.
Get a QuoteClassification depends on worker status and how the company engages the driver. If the worker is an employee performing taxi driving duties, they typically fall under 7365. Misclassifying employees as contractors risks uninsured claims and penalties; Key HR can help review arrangements and ensure proper coverage.
The underlying class code remains 7365 for taxi operations, but airport operators often must meet additional permit, insurance and staging requirements set by airport authorities. Employers should track airport-specific safety protocols, vehicle access rules and any required badges or training for drivers.
Focus on preventive measures: defensive-driving training, routine vehicle maintenance logs, route planning to reduce dangerous areas, robbery-prevention training, prompt reporting and early claims management, and active return-to-work programs. Accurate payroll reporting and periodic classification audits also prevent misrating and premium surprises.
Key HR provides pay-as-you-go workers' comp for California employers — no large deposits, no audits, better rates.
Get a Quoteor call (800) 922-4133Key HR provides California employers with pay-as-you-go workers' comp, HR compliance support, and payroll — all through one PEO partnership.