Taking a Taxi or Rideshare

I need to get to 45 Friedrichstraße, please.

Polite formula using Konjunktiv II ('müsste') when getting into the car.

To the central train station, please.

'Einmal zu...' is the standard everyday spoken shortcut for stating your destination.

Approximately how much will the ride cost?

Useful to ask before departing if the ride is not pre-priced in an app.

Could you tell me roughly how much that will come to?

Softer, polite phrasing using 'in etwa ausmachen'.

Can I pay by card with you, or is it cash only?

Always practical to clarify early, as some traditional taxis prefer cash.

Would card payment be possible?

Concise, polite request with Konjunktiv II.

Could we open the trunk for a moment?

Ask this right upon arrival if you have suitcases or bulky bags.

Can we make it by 3:00 PM, or is there a lot of traffic?

'Schaffen wir das' is the everyday idiom for asking if you'll make an appointment on time.

Could we stop briefly on the way so that I can pick someone up?

Polite clause structure with 'damit' to explain the reason for the stop.

Can we stop briefly at the pharmacy along the way?

Direct, natural request for a quick errand stop.

Could you perhaps drive a bit slower? I feel a little carsick.

Softened with 'vielleicht' and gives a courteous reason instead of sounding critical.

You can just let me out right here at the corner.

'Rauslassen' is very authentic spoken German when indicating a drop-off point.

Please pull over right after the intersection.

Clear, precise instruction when choosing a safe curb.

Just make it 20 euros, keep the change.

'Das stimmt so' is the standard German phrase used to round up the bill and tip.

I'll need a receipt for work, please.

'Quittung' is standard for official expense reports in Germany.