Broward Sheriff’s Office warns travelers to watch out for illegal rideshare drivers at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport

Broward County, Florida – As South Florida enters one of its busiest travel seasons, the Broward Sheriff’s Office is urging passengers arriving at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport to stay alert and avoid unlicensed rideshare solicitors who may attempt to approach travelers inside terminals or along the curb.

The Broward Sheriff’s Office Airport District says the increase in holiday travel often brings an increase in illegal ride solicitations. These unlicensed drivers, officials warn, may pose serious safety risks and often target tired or distracted travelers eager to get to their destinations quickly.

People flock to South Florida for its beaches, warm weather, dining, and entertainment, but law enforcement officials caution that a smooth vacation can take a wrong turn if travelers unknowingly accept rides from unauthorized drivers. BSO is reminding passengers that operating as an unlicensed rideshare driver is illegal and that enforcement efforts are being stepped up at the airport.

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“Christmas brings a surge of travelers and whenever the terminals get packed, the number of unlicensed rideshare drivers trying to blend in rises along with it. Let me be clear – operating as an unlicensed driver is illegal. We’re tightening our curbside oversight and increasing patrols to keep travelers safe and ensure everyone gets to their destination without being swindled,” BSO Airport District Captain Brian Montgomery said.

According to BSO, illegal solicitors often rely on friendly conversation and vague promises of convenience to lure passengers. Travelers may hear phrases like “I’m your driver” or “Are you heading to Miami?” Officials say these are common tactics used to appear legitimate while bypassing the safeguards built into licensed rideshare services.

Authorities stress that passengers should rely on their rideshare apps rather than verbal assurances. A legitimate rideshare driver will already have the passenger’s name and trip details and will ask to confirm identity before beginning the ride. Travelers are advised to always check the driver’s name, license plate number, and vehicle make through the app before entering any car.

BSO also emphasizes the importance of using only designated rideshare pickup zones at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport. These clearly marked locations are designed to keep traffic organized and passengers safe. Licensed drivers know where these areas are and follow airport rules. Official rideshare vehicles should also display company decals, and the absence of proper identification is another warning sign.

Accepting rides from unauthorized solicitors carries additional risks, officials say. Unlicensed drivers may not have undergone background checks, may lack proper insurance, or could be operating without a valid driver’s license. In contrast, authorized services such as Uber, Lyft, taxis, and limousines provide driver tracking, documented trip records, and layers of accountability designed to protect passengers.

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BSO encourages travelers to refuse any ride that does not follow established rules, no matter how convenient it may seem. If a situation feels uncomfortable or suspicious, passengers are urged to walk away and report the activity to airport staff or law enforcement.

The Airport District says it is increasing patrols and curbside monitoring throughout the holiday travel period to identify and stop illegal ride solicitations. Officials also ask travelers to trust their instincts and put personal safety first.

If something feels wrong, authorities stress, do not get into the vehicle. BSO reminds passengers that staying alert and using approved transportation options can make the difference between a safe arrival and a potentially dangerous situation.