If you order a ride-share (Uber, Lyft, or Taxi) to pick you up from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), there’s now a free shuttle that brings you to a designated pickup area. The system generally works well, but be aware: fake, unlicensed taxi drivers are operating in the terminals.

Recently, after returning late at night from a trip, I ordered an Uber to pick me up from LAX. As I waited, I saw passengers being harassed by people offering taxi service. When I confronted one who was zeroing in on a hapless traveler, he became threatening and attempted to intimidate. He scurried off the minute I tried to flag down airport security, which tells you all you need to know about his legitimacy.

In the past, ride-shares would stop near one of the seven terminals, which only worsened the already heavy traffic. Now, a dedicated shuttle takes passengers to a centralized area where taxis, Lyft, and Uber can pick you up. This is part of the LAX-IT shuttle service, and overall, it’s a big improvement.

One of the best aspects is the dedicated inner loop road, which allows the shuttle to bypass much of the congestion. The loop is quick, efficient, and only makes two stops before dropping passengers at the ride-share zone. Compared to the old curbside chaos, it’s a relief. From Terminal 1, the zone is also within walking distance, or about a ten-minute walk if you’d rather skip the shuttle.

As of now, ride-shares can still drop passengers directly at their terminal, but this will change when the new Automated People Mover rail system finally opens in early 2026. This free, elevated train will connect the airport to the LAX/Metro Transit Center, the rental car hub, and all terminals, replacing shuttles with a seamless link.

Here’s the problem: at the LAX-IT area, unlicensed and often aggressive taxi drivers try to lure passengers away. I’ve seen them firsthand more than once, and they are becoming a real issue. They’re especially active late at night, when travelers are tired and less willing to wait for the shuttle - even though, in reality, the wait is rarely long, even past midnight.

This is how their scam works: they approach travelers with promises of a “cheaper” ride. No matter your destination, they’ll claim it will cost less than an Uber or Lyft. Once you agree, and especially after your bags are in their vehicle, the story changes. Suddenly, there are new fees, demands for gratuities, or outright fare inflation. Worse, many of these drivers operate without proper insurance, licensing, or even a legitimate taxi permit. Some are driving off-duty cabs, and others may not have the right to operate at all.

Why does that matter? If there’s an accident, theft, or any crime, you’re left with no accountability and no coverage. Legitimate taxis and ride-shares provide insurance, driver screening, and customer support. Fake operators offer none of that. I even heard a story of a traveler who unknowingly climbed into what turned out to be a stolen taxi. Instead of getting home, they spent hours at a police station answering questions. That’s the risk: once you step into one of these vehicles, you’re vulnerable.

If you’re flying into LAX, stick with the official process:

• Take the LAX-IT shuttle or walk to the official pickup area. There are many signs inside and outside the terminal.
• Only use rides booked through Uber, Lyft, or a verified taxi company.
• Never accept offers from strangers approaching you with promises of cheaper fares. If they are approaching you at a shuttle stop, they are not supposed to be there.
• The LAX-IT shuttles are free and ADA-compliant.
• Report suspicious behavior to LAX airport security (855) 463-5252 or the LAPD (at LAX) (424) 646-6100.

These unlicensed drivers prey on convenience and fatigue, but the risk isn’t worth the few dollars you may or may not save.