English 
Español 
The popularity of rideshare drivers in California is soaring as people opt for this cost-saving option to reach their destinations promptly without worrying about parking or fuel expenses. To join this popular and growing profession, you need to learn more about what it takes to become a rideshare driver, including what type of car insurance to get. Read about the insurance requirements for rideshare drivers in California and find out how to secure the best options.
Coverage Requirements
In California, both new and existing laws require rideshare drivers to have liability coverage at all times, from the time they submit their applications to the time they start providing services. The law requires most California rideshare providers to have $1 million in liability coverage from the time a match between the driver and customer is made until the rider exits the vehicle. The amount may vary.
Driving Periods
Having personal auto insurance coverage is a state law. However, that isn’t all that applies when you’re providing a rideshare service. You’ll need to purchase additional coverage as soon as you download the app and begin taking requests, according to standards and regulations set by the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC).
Your rideshare insurance will provide you with many benefits at all times, which is essential because accidents and injuries could take place even while you’re on a break with no riders in the vehicle. The periods that apply to rideshare coverage for California Transportation Network Companies (TNCs) are:
- Period 0 – You’re offline and covered by your personal insurance coverage.
- Period 1 – You’re online without a request, and you must follow the coverage requirements set by the company you’re providing services for, such as Uber or Lyft.
- Period 2 – You’re online with a request but the rider hasn’t gotten into the vehicle. You must meet the requirements of the company you’re working under.
- Period 3 – You’re both online and have a rider in the car. This period also requires you to get auto insurance based on the company you provide services through.
Driving Requirements for Insurance Coverage Acceptance
California laws and regulations may vary, so it’s important to confirm compliance before joining a rideshare program. In addition, the rideshare policies of some providers, such as Uber, frequently require that you must be at least 25 years of age to drive the vehicle unless you’ve already been grandfathered into a program that allows drivers who are at least 21 years old.
If you’ve been driving for a rideshare company in California for at least 30 days in the last year, certain cities may require you to have a business driver’s license along with your regular driver’s license.
Speaking with an Auto Insurance Provider
There are also background checks you must undergo before being awarded insurance to drive in the state. For instance, California law requires you to pass background checks for criminal, sexual, and drug offenses. Speak with an insurance provider to learn what you need to get and what you can avoid.
Keep in mind insurance providers also monitor your driving record and base your approval on recent vehicle violations, such as reckless driving, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or driving without insurance. Speaking to Chula Vista auto insurance providers can ensure you take the correct steps and keep your vehicle insured for your customers’ benefit as well as yours.
If you aren’t sure whether your personal auto insurance policy covers driving for ridesharing companies, don’t hesitate to ask your insurance agent. If you need affordable, reliable car insurance, look no further than the trustworthy pros at Altra Insurance Services. We can take care of a variety of your insurance needs, including motorcycle, homeowners, and business insurance as well as surety bonds. Give us a call today to find out more about our high-quality insurance products and impeccable service.