Chauffeur Vs. Driver – What’s the Difference?

Are you split between hiring a driver or a professional chauffeur? Better still, is there any difference between a chauffeur and a driver?

Well, the words “driver” and “chauffeur” are not interchangeable. Neither is the profession. There are notable differences between the two.

We’ll explore the differences on the basis of:

• Training/requirements
• Type & quality of service
• Dress code
• Type of vehicle

So, let’s get cracking.

Training & Requirements

Training and requirements for chauffeurs are a lot more demanding. To qualify as a driver, on the other hand, only calls for a few basics.

Well, to understand better, let’s look at the requirements and training for each profession.

Driver requirements & training

To enter the driving course, you must meet the following requirements:

• Be above 18 or 21 years (entirely depends on the laws of the country)
• Have no criminal records
• Test negative for alcohol and drugs

Contrary to what some believe, a driver also needs training. After all, this is what earns you the driver’s license. During the training, you get to learn:

• Basic driving skills
• Road safety
• First aid

Typically, the training takes around five weeks. It entails 1-2 sessions per week, each lasting a minimum of 2 hours.

Chauffeur requirements & training

To undergo chauffeur training, you must:

• Be at least of legal age
• Be a driver and possess a driver’s state license
• Have clean driving and criminal record
• Be acquainted with one or more foreign languages (English is a must in most cases)

Prior to employment, chauffeurs also need training. Well, chauffeur training programs teach:

• Basic vehicle care and maintenance
• Self-defense skills and security awareness
• Personal presentation (attire and personal hygiene)
• Limousine training
• City geography and landmarks
• Driver etiquette
• Customer service

NB: Chauffeur training differ based on program structure and duration.

Type & Quality of Service

As mentioned, chauffeurs undergo more rigorous training. Hence, they provide more regarding the type and quality of service. Well, let’s break it down for you.

Drivers: Type and quality of service

A driver has only one task, to drive you from point A to Point B, more like a shipment. Also, the service doesn’t entail any special perks or treatment.

Chauffeurs: Type and quality of service

Chauffeurs provide a wide range of transportation services. They can drive you to and from wedding events, birthday parties, prom nights, concerts, and other special occasions.

But to a chauffeur, it’s not all about the driving. A chauffeur also serves you, an attribute that has earned them the title “butler on wheels.” Among other things, a chauffeur will assist you in entering and exiting the vehicle or carry your luggage.

To a chauffeur, the client’s safety and image are also a top priority. They will not only get you to your destination safely but also in style.

Also, the client benefits a lot from other personal traits shared by professional chauffeurs. These include:

• Trustworthiness
• Punctuality
• Discretion
• Unwavering attention to detail
• Subtle dignity and pride for their job

Dress Code

Appearance, particularly dress code, is another distinctive difference between chauffeurs and drivers.

Driver dress code

Most drivers don’t pay as much attention to the dress code. In fact, most are into casual wear. What counts is getting as many fares as possible.

Even for those that do, the appearance is not quite formal. It can be a standard suit or a uniform with a company’s logo.

Chauffeur dress code

Well, for chauffeurs, the dress code is paramount. Hence, they’ll go to any lengths to look classy, elegant, and spotless.

A chauffeur is well-groomed, and you’ll often spot them in pressed suits and tuxedos. Of course, such a dress code incorporates matching ties and shoes.

Also, most professional chauffeurs wear gloves. Essentially, it gives them a firmer grip and better control of the wheel. Additionally, gloves minimize pressure on the hands, especially when driving for a long time. So, gloves are more than part of the dress code. They are also crucial for safe driving.

Type of Vehicle

Driver vehicle type

As far as drivers go, clients have no say when it comes to the choice of car. More often than not, drivers use mass-production vehicles that lack the element of luxury.

Also, most drivers are not responsible for vehicle maintenance. Hence, car breakdowns and delays are pretty common.

Chauffeur vehicle type

Just as in the dress code, appearances do matter regarding the choice of vehicle.

Most professional chauffeurs are into high-quality, luxury vehicles. These include executive vans, limousines, and luxury sedans.

Well, the luxury isn’t only in the type of vehicle. Professional limo services, for instance, to the extra length to provide other amenities.

Some have entertainment features, such as a flat-screen TV, sound system, and free WiFi. Also, you get comfort-boosting features, such as air conditioning, high-quality upholstery, comfortable seats, and extra legroom.

But apart from luxury vehicles, professional chauffeurs also operate a fleet of standard vehicles. As a result, they give clients more options regarding the type of car they wish to be transported in.

Chauffeurs Vs. Drivers: FAQs

Can a chauffeur transport someone else during booking hours?

Well, whenever you rent a chauffeur, the vehicle is always at your service for the number of hours booked. It doesn’t matter whether you’re in the vehicle or not.

Let’s say your chauffeur drops you at an event. He will not sleep or leave the area not unless the booking hours expire.

Who is faster between a chauffeur and a driver?

Chauffeurs are more punctual. Also, they are more familiar with shortcuts and the best alternative routes. Hence, when it comes to beating the time, a chauffeur is the best.

What do we call a female chauffeur?

Well, to most, the word “chauffeur” is more of a gender-neutral term that refers to both male and female drivers. It’s something we’re accustomed to. However, “chauffeur” refers to a male driver, while female drivers are known as “chauffeuse.”

Wrapping Up

Anyone can be a driver but not a chauffeur. Essentially, a chauffeur has more experience and provides first-class, customized service. A chauffeur will serve your every need, be it security, booking reservations, or running errands. Indeed, they showcase more professionalism, and there’s certainly nothing too much for a great chauffeur.