Updated August 7, 2023
The Nevada taxi business is governed by the state Taxicab Authority, whose commissioners are appointed by the governor. The TA officers are full-fledged state troopers and their mandate is to protect you, the passenger. They control every phase of the industry, from the meter to the receipt.
You should know that the person driving your cab is not the owner, as in other cities. All taxis in Las Vegas are owned by companies, of which drivers are commissioned employees. They get a percentage of the meter, less certain trip charges and fuel. So when the meter's not running, they're not making money. As the percentage isn't all that great, some cabbies drive a bit on the reckless side to get to where they can turn the meter on again.
If, for any reason, you feel that your driver is being unsafe or trying to take advantage of you, get his permit-identification number (in red on the permit) and call the TA at the number posted (702-486-6532). They're open 24/7 hours and will respond to your call.
You can also ask the driver for the name and number of the cab-company supervisor.
If you can't or don't want to complain in front of your driver, you can go to the TA website and fill out/submit an affidavit. Information you'll need will include your name, date, time, place, and description of the incident, cab company, and cab number. It's very helpful to the investigating officer if you also note the driver's name and TA permit number and provide a physical description. If you have the names and phone numbers of any witnesses, those are welcome.
Oftentimes, just taking down all the above information and threatening to call the Taxicab Authority or a company supervisor will convince the cab driver to settle with you, so the TA or the company doesn't get involved and give him a black mark on his record, or worse.
But in our experience, the vast majority of cabbies are professional, helpful, courteous, and honest. Problems, though they do occur, are infrequent. Drivers consider themselves ambassadors for the city. The best cabbies always do -- and have done so for hundreds of years.