Hi,
The only reasonable number that 2.89 can be devided by (and get a natural mumber) is 17.  2.89 : 17 = 0.17    So there are 17 persons each one paid 17 cents.  The only combination that makes 17c by 5 coins is:  3 coin of 5c, 2 coins of 1c.   Now the answer is clear: The driver collects 17 * 3 = 51 dimes.  (17 persons each paying 3 dimes).   The cents are mot counted here.  Nice question.  I liked it. 
Best regards,