Hiring a personal chauffeur isn’t just about getting from point A to B—it’s about travelling in comfort, style, and complete ease. Whether you need a chauffeur for business, personal errands, or a special occasion, having a professional driver at your service can elevate your travel experience. But let’s get to the big question: how much does a personal chauffeur cost?
The answer depends on several factors, including the type of service, vehicle choice, duration, and experience level of the chauffeur. This guide will break down everything you need to know, from normal chauffeur costs, and hourly rates to full-time salaries, so you can make an informed decision before booking a chauffeur.
Quick Cost Breakdown of Personal Chauffeur Services
| Service Type | Standard Cars | Luxury Cars (Mercedes S-Class, Bentley, Rolls-Royce) |
| Hourly Rate | £15 – £40 per hour | £40 – £300 per hour |
| Daily Rate (8-10 hours) | £400 – £700 per day | £700 – £1,500 per day |
| Monthly Rate | £4,000 – £7,000 per month | £7,000 – £10,000 per month |
| Full-Time Annual Salary | £28,000 – £55,000 per year | £60,000 – £80,000+ per year |
| Wedding Chauffeur | £500 – £1,500 per event | £1,000 – £3,000 per event |
| Airport Transfers | From £150 per trip | From £250 per trip |
Factors That Affect the Cost of Hiring a Chauffeur
When considering how much does it cost to hire a driver for the day in London, you’ll need to look at several key factors that influence pricing:
1. Type of Chauffeur Service
- Hourly Hire: Ideal for short-term needs like a business meeting, city tour, or special event.
- Daily Hire: Perfect if you need a chauffeur for an entire day, whether for corporate meetings, shopping, or sightseeing.
- Full-Time Chauffeur: If you require a dedicated personal driver every day, hiring a full-time chauffeur might be the best option.
2. Location & Demand
Where you’re booking a chauffeur makes a big difference. Chauffeur services in London tend to cost more due to high demand, traffic congestion, and the cost of living. If you’re hiring a chauffeur outside major cities, you might find lower rates.
3. Type of Vehicle
The luxury level of the car you choose will impact the chauffeur costs. Here’s how different vehicles compare:
- Standard Sedans (e.g., Toyota Prius, BMW 3 Series) – More affordable and practical.
- Executive Vehicles (e.g., Mercedes E-Class, Tesla Model S) – A step up in comfort and prestige.
- Luxury Vehicles (e.g., Mercedes S-Class, Bentley Mulsanne, Rolls-Royce Phantom) – High-end travel at a premium price.
For those looking to hire a Mercedes S-Class chauffeur, expect to pay £40–£120 per hour or more, depending on the service.
4. Chauffeur Experience & Special Training
A professional chauffeur isn’t just a driver—they provide a first-class service. Those with extra training, such as:
- Defensive driving for safety.
- Security & VIP protection.
- Multilingual skills for international clients.
These chauffeurs command higher salaries, especially if they work with VIPs, executives, or celebrities.
5. Additional Services & Custom Requests
Some extra services may increase the cost, such as:
✔ Meet & Greet at the airport.
✔ Child seats or extra luggage space.
✔ Personal security services.
✔ Event chauffeur for special occasions like weddings or corporate functions.
How Much Does a Chauffeur Cost in the UK?
Hourly Chauffeur Rates
If you need a short-term chauffeur, most companies charge per hour.
- Standard car: £15 – £40 per hour.
- Luxury car (e.g., Mercedes S-Class, Range Rover): £40 – £120 per hour.
- High-end vehicles (e.g., Rolls-Royce, Bentley, Maybach): £100 – £300 per hour.
Most companies have a minimum booking time of 3–5 hours, especially for luxury cars.
Daily Chauffeur Rates
A full-day chauffeur hire (8-10 hours) offers the best value if you need someone for an extended period.
- Standard car: £400 – £700 per day.
- Luxury car (e.g., Bentley, Mercedes S-Class): £700 – £1,500 per day.
This is ideal for business executives, corporate roadshows, and full-day London tours.
Full-Time Chauffeur Salaries
Thinking about hiring a chauffeur as a full-time employee? Here’s a general salary breakdown:
- Beginner Chauffeurs (2-4 years experience): £28,000 – £37,000 per year.
- Experienced Chauffeurs (5-10 years experience): £38,000 – £55,000 per year.
- Elite Chauffeurs (VIP clients, security trained): £60,000 – £80,000+ per year.
In London, full-time chauffeurs with VIP experience or corporate chauffeur skills can earn over £100,000 per year.
Why Hire a Full-Time Chauffeur?
For those who travel frequently, a full-time personal chauffeur can be more cost-effective. Here’s why:
- You don’t need to book ahead—your driver is always available.
- They can assist with other tasks, such as running errands, handling luggage, or making reservations.
- You get a highly personalised experience, ensuring smooth, stress-free travel every day.
How to Choose the Right Chauffeur Service
Before hiring a chauffeur, make sure you:
✔ Read Reviews & Testimonials – Look for top-rated chauffeur services in London.
✔ Check Fleet Options – Ensure they offer luxury vehicles that match your needs.
✔ Compare Pricing & Packages – Look for transparent pricing with no hidden fees.
✔ Ask About Extra Services – Need a personal security-trained driver? Make sure they offer this.
For those wondering how much does it cost to hire a driver for the day in London, choosing a reliable, professional chauffeur service ensures you get the best value.
Final Thoughts: Is Hiring a Chauffeur Worth It?
Hiring a personal chauffeur isn’t just about luxury—it’s about convenience, safety, and efficiency. Whether you need a chauffeur for a business trip, special occasion, or full-time service, there’s an option to match your needs and budget.
At Lavish Chauffeurs, we provide bespoke chauffeur services with a fleet of premium vehicles and highly skilled chauffeurs. Whether you’re looking to book a luxury airport transfer or chauffeur service london for a day, we ensure a five-star travel experience.
📞 Book your chauffeur today for an unparalleled journey in comfort, style, and reliability.