Rideshare Insurance for Uber and Lyft Drivers: Closing the Gap
Your personal auto policy probably doesn't cover driving for Uber or Lyft. The three rideshare coverage periods, what the apps cover and where the gaps are.
Updated October 7, 2026 · 6 min read
Key takeaways
- Most personal auto policies exclude driving for pay, which can leave you uncovered while the app is on.
- Rideshare coverage is split into periods: app on and waiting, ride accepted, and passenger in the car.
- While you're waiting for a ride request, Uber and Lyft only provide limited liability coverage, and no coverage for your own car.
- A rideshare endorsement on your personal policy is usually the simplest way to close the gaps.
Why your personal policy may not cover you
Personal auto policies typically exclude using your car to carry passengers or deliver goods for pay. The NAIC warns that this can leave gaps in liability, injury coverage, collision and comprehensive, and uninsured motorist coverage while you're working. If you crash while the app is on and your insurer didn't know, your claim could be denied.
The three rideshare periods
| Period | What's happening | Typical app coverage |
|---|---|---|
| Offline | App off | None. Your personal policy applies. |
| Period 1 | App on, waiting for a request | Limited liability, typically $50,000/$100,000 for injuries and $25,000 for property damage. No coverage for your own car. |
| Period 2 | Ride accepted, driving to pick up | At least $1 million liability. Contingent collision and comprehensive with a $2,500 deductible, but only if you carry those on your own policy. |
| Period 3 | Passenger in the car | Same as Period 2. |
These figures reflect Uber's and Lyft's published coverage and the NAIC model law. Coverage can differ by state, so check the app's insurance page for your state.
Free, no obligation, about two minutes. Or call: Insured 1-888-773-7558 · Uninsured 1-844-900-2302
Where the gaps are
- Period 1: the app's coverage is liability only, at lower limits, and doesn't pay to fix your car.
- Your deductible: in Periods 2 and 3, the app's collision coverage comes with a $2,500 deductible.
- Your injuries: depending on your state, you may have limited coverage for your own medical bills.
Rideshare endorsements
Many insurers sell a rideshare endorsement that extends your personal policy to cover the gaps, especially Period 1, often for a modest extra cost. Some offer hybrid policies for full-time drivers. Tell your insurer you drive for a rideshare company and ask what they offer.
Delivery drivers
Food and package delivery apps have their own insurance terms, and they're not always the same as rideshare coverage. Check each app's insurance terms and ask your insurer whether your policy or endorsement covers delivery driving.
Frequently asked questions
Does Uber or Lyft insurance cover my car?
Only in Periods 2 and 3, and only if you carry collision and comprehensive on your own policy. There's a $2,500 deductible.
Do I have to tell my insurer I drive for Uber or Lyft?
Yes. Most personal policies exclude driving for pay, and not disclosing it can lead to a denied claim or a cancelled policy.
What is a rideshare endorsement?
An add-on to your personal policy that extends coverage while you drive for a rideshare company, especially while you're waiting for a ride request.
How this guide was made: researched and drafted with AI assistance (Wren AI), and checked against the government and industry sources listed above. Wren AI is an AI tool, not a person or a licensed insurance agent.
This guide is general information, not insurance, legal or tax advice. Coverage, rules and prices vary by state, insurer and policy. Confirm details with a licensed agent before you buy. Read our editorial policy.