What Car Insurance Do Uber and Lyft Drivers Need?
In a Nutshell: Rideshare drivers need a rideshare endorsement on their personal policy to cover a critical gap — when the app is on but no passenger is in the car. During this period (Period 1 & 2), Uber/Lyft provide only limited coverage (50/100/25) and your personal policy likely excludes rideshare driving. Rideshare endorsements cost $10–$40/month.
Rideshare Coverage Periods
| Period | App Status | Uber/Lyft Coverage | Your Personal Policy |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 | App off | None | ✅ Full coverage |
| 1 | App on, waiting for ride | Limited (50/100/25 liability, no comp/coll) | ❌ Excluded |
| 2 | En route to passenger | Limited (50/100/25) | ❌ Excluded |
| 3 | Passenger in car | $1M liability + comp/coll ($1k deduct.) | ❌ Excluded |
Key Takeaways
- Rideshare driving creates a coverage gap when the app is on but no passenger is in the car
- Uber/Lyft provide only 50/100/25 liability during Periods 1 and 2
- A rideshare endorsement ($10–$40/month) fills this gap
- Geico, State Farm, and Progressive offer rideshare endorsements
- Never drive for Uber/Lyft without verifying your insurance coverage first
Last updated: July 2026
Disclaimer: This article provides general information about rideshare insurance. Coverage availability varies by state and insurer. Always verify your specific coverage with your insurance agent.