What's the Key Distinction Between Hiring a Chauffeur Service and a Private Driver in London?

Do you think a private driver and a chauffeur are interchangeable? If this is the case, you are mistaken, but you are not alone. This is a prevalent misperception held by many people.

While both a professional driver and a chauffeur are employed to operate a passenger vehicle, there are several significant differences between these two occupations. Before you hire or obtain quotations for a professional driving service or corporate chauffeur service, you should understand the variations between the options available.

So, what differentiates private drivers from chauffeurs? Here are major distinctions to be aware of:

What Does a Private Driver Do?

A personal or private driver in London can drive you and your family to work, school, meetings, extracurricular activities, and social trips, among other things. When someone else drives, you can catch up on emails while in the car, reducing stress and irritation associated with traffic and parking. Having a private driver also allows you to be on time for key appointments. You'll make a good impression every time you arrive at your location because private family chauffeurs take pride in their appearance and the appearance of the vehicle. When you have social engagements for a night out, having a private driver is also a good idea because you won't have to worry about who will be the designated driver. Private drivers are appropriate for a wide range of travelers. If you need to move from point A to point B in a city, they are a cost-effective option.

What Does a Chauffeur Do?

A chauffeur's job is far more diversified than that of a driver. It is critical for chauffeurs to be able to adapt to diverse responsibilities, which they do through continual training and communication with their head office team and fellow chauffeurs.

Furthermore, some chauffeurs are qualified to clean the vehicle, protect you, and provide basic first aid. Because they typically serve an elite clientele, they must adhere to rigorous restrictions and exhibit distinct behavior. If you utilize your own vehicle, several services include valet services. 

What Types of Vehicles do Drivers and Chauffeurs Operate?

Chauffeurs are usually hired to drive clients in a luxury sedan, executive van, or limousine in order to convey the image of a professional, pleasant, and confidential service in all parts of their service.

A driver will typically operate a fleet of both regular and premium automobiles, allowing consumers to choose whatever vehicle they prefer to be driven in.

How Do I Hire One?

As you'll be spending a lot of time with your driver, pick someone whose personality you like and with whom you can relax. You'll also need to decide how frequently you'll require chauffeur services and how you'll handle insurance, expenditures, and scheduling.

It is also recommended that prior to meeting with you, potential private driver applicants be pre-screened for their skills and expertise. This is why it's always better to engage with a reputable staffing agency, such as Irving Scott, to assist you find the best candidates. Fill out our application on our official website if you need private chauffeuring services for your family or business. Visit us to discover more about how we match professional drivers with people like you.