In a world where comfort, punctuality and safety have become priorities for passengers, the profession of private driver stands out as a fundamental pillar of high-end passenger transport. More and more customers are using services from VTC in Lyon and elsewhere, for their daily, professional, or tourist journeys. But what really makes a good private driver? What are the secrets of impeccable service, and how can you train to successfully practice this profession?
Be VTC driver is not limited to driving a luxury vehicle from point A to point B. It is a professional activity that requires rigor, a sense of service, discretion, and perfect knowledge of the region. In Lyon, for example, customers expect a private driver in Lyon that he masters the narrow streets of Old Lyon as well as the main arteries to the airport or the Groupama Stadium.
Here are some essential qualities:
Punctuality A good private driver is always early. He anticipates traffic jams and unforeseen events, and ensures that every trip starts on time.
Presentation : professional attire, impeccable vehicle, impeccable hygiene. The first contact is visual.
Discretion : never impose yourself in the conversation. Let the customer initiate the exchange.
Politeness and courtesy : the welcome, the tone of voice, the attentions like opening the door or helping with luggage make the difference.
Driving skills : smooth, safe, economical and respectful of the Highway Code.
To become private driver, professional training is compulsory. In France, this involves several stages:
Obtain the VTC professional card : issued by the prefecture, it is accessible after passing an exam organized by the Chamber of Trades. The test includes legal, regulatory, management and road safety components.
Take a VTC training course : Although not mandatory, it is highly recommended. Many training centers in Lyon or online offer intensive courses to prepare for the exam, as well as additional modules: customer relations, professional English, independent business management, etc.
Have a compliant vehicle : A VTC driver must own or rent a recent, comfortable, air-conditioned car registered as a passenger transport vehicle. Models such as the Tesla Model 3 or sedans such as the Audi A6 or BMW 5 Series are often popular.
Take out professional insurance : professional civil liability is compulsory.
Register in the VTC register : the process is done online on the website of the Ministry of Ecological Transition.
A private chauffeur is not just a driver. His job requires a multitude of tasks, often invisible but essential to guarantee a premium customer experience.
Daily vehicle check : interior/exterior cleanliness, fuel level, tire condition, equipment operation.
Trip planning : analysis of timetables, calculation of optimal routes, taking into account traffic.
Personalized welcome : name sign at the airport, water bottles, phone charger, Wi-Fi connection on board.
Reservation management : via the website, partner platforms, or regular customers.
Invoicing and Payment Tracking : many drivers work as micro-enterprises or through a company, which involves rigorous administrative management.
Respect for the client and the profession is at the heart of the business. Ethics is what distinguishes a professional VTC driver of a simple carrier.
Respect for commitments : no delay, no cancellation without valid reason.
Absolute confidentiality What is said in the vehicle stays in the vehicle. This is a golden rule, especially with business clients.
Price transparency : prices must be clear, displayed in advance, without surprises.
Respect for competition : Do not denigrate taxis or other VTC drivers. Competition exists, but professionalism must prevail.
Here are some tips of seasoned drivers to stand out:
Offer a multilingual service if possible (English, Spanish).
Offer tourist tours in Lyon or in the region (Beaujolais, Alps).
Build customer loyalty with personalized offers (loyalty card, regular discounts).
Work on your Google and Yellow Pages reviews, which are crucial for your reputation.
Create a professional web presence with online booking
The Lyon region is an excellent place to work. France's second-largest metropolitan area, with growing tourism, international trade fairs (Pollutec, Sirha), and a lively nightlife, Lyon attracts a varied clientele : businessmen, tourists, demanding locals.
A private driver Lyon well established can work all year round, optimizing its journeys between the city center, airport, Part-Dieu station and one-off events such as the Nuits de Fourvière or OL matches at Groupama Stadium.
Be private driver, is about combining high-end service, business management, and human touch. In Lyon, where customer expectations are high, only passionate, rigorous, and well-trained professionals can achieve lasting success.
