Becoming An Uber Driver: Understanding Insurance Requirements

If you're thinking about becoming an Uber driver, there are a few things you need to know about insurance. Uber drivers need to have valid auto insurance coverage, but the minimum insurance requirements vary depending on the state and city they are operating in. It's important to review the local regulatory requirements, as some cities mandate displaying a sign or sticker indicating that the vehicle is for passenger transport.

Uber maintains commercial auto insurance on behalf of its drivers when they are online and driving on the platform. This insurance covers accidents, injuries, and property damage. However, when offline or not using the app, drivers are covered by their personal auto insurance policies. It is recommended to contact your insurance provider before signing up as a rideshare driver, as some companies may cancel your policy or have specific requirements for ridesharing activities.

To drive with Uber, you must provide proof of auto insurance and car registration. Additionally, your vehicle will need to meet certain requirements, including age, size, and condition, which vary by region.

Minimum age, driving experience and valid driver's license

To become an Uber driver, you must meet the minimum age requirement to drive in your city and have a valid driver's license. The minimum age and license requirements vary depending on your location. For example, in Ontario, Canada, drivers must be 21+ years old and have a full G license or equivalent. In the United States, the minimum age to drive for Uber is typically 21 years old, but this may vary by city.

In addition to meeting the minimum age and license requirements, Uber drivers must have at least one year of licensed driving experience in the United States. If you are under 25 years old, you will need three years of driving experience. This driving experience must be in the country where you plan to drive for Uber.

When signing up to drive for Uber, you will need to provide proof of your valid driver's license. This is typically done by uploading a photo or scan of your license to the Uber website or app.

Proof of residency, insurance and vehicle registration

To become an Uber driver, you must meet certain requirements, including age, vehicle, and insurance. Uber drivers need to have auto insurance coverage, and proof of insurance is required if you plan to drive your own car. If you are renting a vehicle through Uber, insurance is included.

In the US, you must provide proof of vehicle insurance, registration, and state vehicle inspection. You must also maintain personal automobile insurance at mandatory minimum limits. This insurance covers you while you are offline, and Uber maintains additional insurance on your behalf when you are online and available for trips or en route to or on a trip.

In Ontario, Canada, you must have a valid Ontario vehicle insurance pink slip, with your name visible on the slip. If you are a secondary driver, you must include a photo of the full policy document with your name on it.

In addition to insurance, you must also provide proof of residency in your city, state, or province.

Vehicle requirements and inspections

To become an Uber driver, your vehicle must meet certain requirements and pass an inspection. These requirements vary by region, so be sure to check the specific rules for your location. Here are the general guidelines and an overview of the vehicle inspection process:

Vehicle Requirements

• Your vehicle must be in good working condition and have four doors.
• It should meet state or provincial requirements, such as having up-to-date registration.
• The vehicle must not have any commercial branding.
• The vehicle must be a certain age, typically 10 to 15 years old or newer, depending on your city and state.
• The vehicle must not have a title as salvaged or rebuilt.
• Additional requirements may apply if you plan to drive for specialized services like UberX or UberXL.

Vehicle Inspections

• You will need to get your vehicle inspected for potential faults before driving for Uber. This inspection is free if done at an Uber centre.
• The frequency of inspections depends on your location. For example, in some cities, inspections are required annually or after a certain number of miles (e.g., 50,000 miles).
• New drivers must upload a safety standards certificate (SSC) within a specified time frame after passing the inspection, typically around 30 to 60 days.
• Existing drivers must also complete annual inspections and upload an SSC within the specified time frame after passing.

Background checks and screenings

To ensure the safety of all users, Uber conducts thorough background checks on potential drivers. These background checks are multi-step safety screens that involve checking for issues such as impaired driving and violent offenses. Uber also checks driving records and criminal history.

To pass the background check, you must meet the following requirements:

• Have a valid U.S. driver's license.
• Have at least one year of licensed driving experience in the United States (three years if you're under 25 years old).
• Be at least 21 years old, or meet the minimum age to drive for Uber in your state.
• Have an eligible 4-door vehicle.
• Provide proof of residency in your city or state.
• Give proof of vehicle insurance if you plan to drive your own car.

In addition to the background check, Uber also requires drivers to undergo safety screenings, which vary depending on the city. For example, in Ottawa, you must complete a background screening and a Vulnerable Sector Check. This includes a Police Records Check and a Motor Vehicle Records check. On the other hand, in Saskatoon, you must complete a Driver Abstract and a Vulnerable Sector Check, which includes a Criminal Record Check with the Vulnerable Sector.

It's important to note that Uber reruns these driver screenings at least annually and uses technology to monitor for issues in between. This ongoing screening process is part of Uber's commitment to ensuring the safety of both drivers and riders.

Uber's insurance coverage

Ubers Insurance Coverage

Uber maintains commercial auto insurance on behalf of its drivers. This insurance covers drivers when they are driving on the Uber platform. When drivers are not working, they are covered by their own personal auto insurance.

• Third-party liability insurance with a $1 million limit
• Uninsured/underinsured motorist bodily injury (limits vary by state)
• Contingent comprehensive and collision coverage following payment of a $2,500 or $1,000 deductible, provided that the driver has personal comprehensive and collision coverage
• Coverage for at least $1,000,000 for property damage and injuries to riders and third parties involved in an accident where the driver is at fault
• Coverage for the cost to repair the driver's car, up to the actual cash value, with a $2,500 deductible, contingent on the driver's personal insurance including comprehensive and collision coverage
• Optional Injury Protection (if available in the driver's state) to cover additional medical expenses if the driver is hurt in an accident
• Coverage for the driver and their riders for injuries in a hit-and-run or an accident caused by an uninsured or underinsured driver
• Personal injury protection, including medical expenses and lost wages for the driver and their riders, regardless of who is at fault
• Medical payments coverage for the driver and their riders, regardless of who is at fault

Personal Insurance Coverage

In addition to Uber's insurance coverage, drivers must also maintain their own personal auto insurance. The minimum insurance requirements vary by state, and some places have special requirements for ridesharing drivers. Drivers must provide proof of their personal auto insurance to Uber and ensure that their insurance meets the mandatory minimum limits.

Additional Considerations

It is important to note that Uber's insurance coverage is subject to certain conditions and exclusions. For example, there is no Uber-maintained collision or comprehensive coverage if the driver is offline, has not accepted a trip, or does not maintain comprehensive and collision insurance on their personal insurance policy.

Furthermore, drivers who rent or lease vehicles through Uber's partners should be aware that the insurance provided may vary and may include a deductible. It is recommended to carefully review the insurance coverage provided before renting or leasing a vehicle.

Additionally, drivers should be aware that their personal auto insurance provider may have specific requirements or restrictions for ridesharing activities. It is important to contact your insurance provider before signing up as an Uber driver to ensure that you have the necessary coverage and that your policy will not be cancelled or affected.

Overall, Uber provides comprehensive insurance coverage for its drivers while they are driving on the platform. However, it is important for drivers to understand the limitations of this coverage and ensure that they have adequate personal insurance as well. By understanding the insurance requirements and coverage, drivers can feel confident that they are protected in the event of an accident or incident while driving for Uber.

Frequently asked questions