What insurance do I need for Uber?
Uber drivers are at risk of accidents because of how many hours they spend on the road, which is why insurance is so crucial.
You will need private hire taxi insurance to drive for Uber in the UK. You’ll have to get a policy from an insurer that’s approved by Uber before you can start working as a driver.
Whether you’re considering becoming an Uber driver or you’ve been in the job for ages, let’s discuss what you need to know about Uber taxi insurance.
What type of insurance must Uber drivers have?
You will need private hire taxi insurance, a type of hire and reward insurance, if you want to drive for Uber.
It is also crucial that your policy includes public liability insurance, should you injure a member of the public or damage someone’s property while driving for Uber.
Note: Uber released a list of approved insurance providers, which include:
- Zego
- Nelson
- Inshur
- Antilo
- Acorn/Haven
The reason for this is because of the Uber Instadoc system, which speeds up the verification process for new drivers. Uber can get insurance documents directly from the insurance company.
Looking for cheap uber taxi Insurance? Get your quote today!
Get QuotesWhat is covered by Uber taxi insurance?
Each insurance policy is slightly different, but private hire taxi insurance usually covers the following:
- Public liability cover: Protects the driver against claims from the public in the case of damage to third-party property or injury.
- Third-party only: This is a minimum legal requirement in the UK. The driver can opt for third-party, fire and theft or comprehensive cover as well.
- Passenger liability: Covers injury or damage claims made by passengers.
- Legal expenses: Covers the legal costs in the case of disputes made against the Uber driver related to the trip or vehicle.
- Personal injury cover: Provides compensation for the Uber driver if they are injured while working. May also cover lost wages.
What’s not covered?
- Personal driving: A social, domestic & pleasure insurance policy (SD&P) is required if the Uber vehicle is used for personal use.
- Wear and tear: General wear and tear (like worn brake pads) is not covered.
- Unnamed drivers: Only drivers named on the insurance policy are covered.
- Unapproved modifications: Any modifications made to the car and not disclosed to the insurer may void the policy.
- Driving under the influence: An accident caused while drunk or under the influence of drugs is not covered.
How much does Uber insurance cost?
The cost of Uber driver insurance varies based on several factors we’ll discuss below.
However, private hire taxi insurance costs around £1,600 for annual policies. Those looking for temporary cover can expect to pay around £180 for 30 days.
Which factors influence the cost of Uber taxi insurance?
- The insurance company you opt for
- Driver’s age and driving experience
- Prior driving offences
- Vehicle type and value
- Location where most passenger trips are booked
- Annual mileage
- Claims history (including no-claims bonus)
- Voluntary excess amount
- Level of cover (third party-only; third-party, fire and theft; or comprehensive)
- Security features on the vehicle
- Passenger capacity of the vehicle
How can you reduce the cost of your Uber insurance?
Here are our top tips to cut down on the cost of insurance for Uber drivers:
- Compare quotes from different (approved) insurance companies with SimplyQuote.
- Pay annually to avoid paying interest on monthly instalments.
- Improve vehicle security by installing dashcams and immobilisers, and parking the vehicle in a safe spot when not in use.
- Install a black box device. The insurance company uses the data to analyse driving habits. The safer the driver, the lower the premiums.
- Increase your voluntary excess (but make sure you can still afford it should you have to make a claim).
- Select a vehicle in a lower insurance group.
- Be mindful of the passenger trips you book – driving at night or in urban areas can fetch you higher premiums.
Does Uber provide insurance for Uber drivers?
No, Uber does not offer insurance for those working for the private hire taxi service.
Although the company does offer its drivers injury and sickness cover if they can’t work, neither the car nor passengers are covered.
Uber drivers are independent contractors and are, therefore, responsible for arranging their own commercial taxi insurance as well as personal use cover.
Final thoughts
If you wish to carry passengers in your car that have pre-booked through an app, like Uber, you will require commercial private hire taxi insurance.
This insurance cover will ensure that you’re legally compliant in the UK to pick up fares, and will also cover you in the event of third-party claims. However, private hire insurance does not replace standard car insurance to use your car for personal use, and you will also need an SD&P policy in place.
If you want to find the best Uber driver insurance, use the comparison tool from SimplyQuote to compare insurance quotes. It is free and simple, and you’ll receive quotes from approved insurers in just a few clicks.
Frequently Asked Questions
To work as an Uber driver in the UK, you’ll need:
- To be at least 21 years old
- Have a full UK driving licence
- Have one year of driving experience
- Hold a private hire licence (from your local council)
- Have special car insurance for Uber drivers from an approved insurer – private hire insurance which should include public liability insurance
- Have completed Uber’s onboarding course
- Have a vehicle that meets Uber’s requirements
- Have an account on the Uber app
Most private hire insurance policies will provide cover for the Uber driver, third parties and passengers. However, each policy is different, so you need to carefully read your policy or chat with your insurance provider to ensure your policy meets the minimum legal requirements for private hire taxis in the UK.
Uber drivers specifically require private hire insurance, not public hire insurance:
- Private hire insurance: This type of insurance applies to taxis that are hailed in advance, through a website or app.
- Public hire insurance: This insurance covers taxi drivers who pick up fares at taxi ranks or from the street, without prior booking.