What is the difference between driver and chauffeur?

A driver is any operator of a car. A chauffeur is someone employed to look after the needs of the passenger as well as the operation of the car. A chauffeur is an experienced, licensed professional who can provide extra comfort and safety for passengers.

Many people—including drivers and chauffeurs themselves—confuse these two occupations. They are entirely different. For example, a driver's job is to transport passengers from one location to another; a chauffeur drives a vehicle owned by someone else.

Although professional drivers and chauffeurs are hired to drive a passenger vehicles, there are some key differences between these two professions. Before you book or receive quotes for either a professional safe driver service or a corporate chauffeur service, it is important to understand the differences between each service.

What Services Make a Driver and Chauffeur Offer?

A driver is employed to drive a passenger car and will do so professionally to convey you from point A to point B. Conversely, a chauffeur delivers a service far beyond simply driving passengers wherever they want. They help with your every need, from booking reservations and fetching items to making shopping trips, picking up dry cleaning, sourcing flowers, etc.

If you ask a chauffeur to run your errand or fulfill a specific request, they will do so as long as the request is within the law. If you like to take the scenic path to your desired destination or take a detour, such requests are also allowed.

How Do Professional Drivers and Chauffeurs Dress?

A professional driver and a chauffeur have very different appearance requirements. The chauffeur is particularly required to look very polished, be well-groomed and dress in a pressed dark costume or tuxedo, dress shirt, tie, gloves (black or white), and dress shoes. A chauffeur may also wear a cap and a coat that matches their suit during colder months.

A driver's uniform is typically less formal than a chauffeur's uniform. It will consist of a standard suit or shirt and jacket adorned with their company logo, accompanied by slacks, shoes, and sometimes a hat.

What Vehicles Do Drivers and Chauffeurs Drive?

Chauffeurs transport clients in a luxury vehicle, whether an executive van or limousine, to ensure that clients receive a professional, comfortable, and confidential service.

A driver service usually operates a fleet of standard and luxury vehicles, allowing passengers to select the type of car they wish to be transported.

What Training is Provided to Drivers and Chauffeurs?

The term driver is generic, but the term chauffeur has a very specific definition. A driver is hired to operate a vehicle; a chauffeur is hired to serve as his employer's representative while driving the vehicle. In addition, although anyone can be a driver, becoming a chauffeur requires training and certification from an official school.

To minimize downtime and improve the overall quality of service, some companies require their chauffeurs to participate in etiquette training courses and additional driver training. This enables them to handle difficult situations like changing a flat tire, driving in extreme weather conditions, etc.

What are the Main Advantages of a Chauffeur over a Driver?

When you book a chauffeur service, you're not just hiring someone to get you from point A to point B. You're hiring a company that brings care and service that will exceed your expectations.