Is it possible to have a rideshare car rental?
It’s possible to pick up rideshare rental cars for Uber and Lyft, but you may not have enough auto insurance coverage. You may be able to get a rideshare insurance add-on from your current auto insurance company.
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Scott W. Johnson
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Scott W Johnson is an independent insurance agent in California. Principal Broker and founder of Marindependent Insurance Services, Scott brings over 25 years of experience to his clients. His Five President’s Council awards prove he uses all he learned at Avocet, Sprint Nextel, and Farmers Insurance to the benefit of his clients. Scott quickly grasped the unique insurance requirements of his...
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UPDATED: Oct 21, 2024
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Editorial Guidelines: We are a free online resource for anyone interested in learning more about auto insurance. Our goal is to be an objective, third-party resource for everything auto insurance related. We update our site regularly, and all content is reviewed by auto insurance experts.
UPDATED: Oct 21, 2024
It’s all about you. We want to help you make the right coverage choices.
Advertiser Disclosure: We strive to help you make confident auto insurance decisions. Comparison shopping should be easy. We are not affiliated with any one auto insurance provider and cannot guarantee quotes from any single provider. Our partnerships don’t influence our content. Our opinions are our own. To compare quotes from many different companies please enter your ZIP code on this page to use the free quote tool. The more quotes you compare, the more chances to save.
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You don’t have to own a car to drive for rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft. With rideshare rentals from places like HyreCar, Avis, Hertz, or Lyft Express, delivery driving is easy. However, you must maintain a clean driving record and up-to-date auto insurance to drive a rideshare rental car.
Some rideshare and rental companies offer insurance policies, but coverage sometimes can be limited to liability only. So, shop around for the right rideshare insurance policy before you start working.
Keep reading to learn more about the insurance type you need for ridesharing and where you can find the cheapest rideshare rental cars near you.
- Uber and Lyft provide rideshare car rentals by partnering with rental companies like Avis and Hertz
- Other companies like HyreCar and RideShare Rental allow drivers to use vehicles for multiple ridesharing and delivery platforms
- Drivers must be at least 21 years old to rent a car for ridesharing
Is it Possible to Rent a Car to Drive for Lyft or Uber
Yes, you can rent a car to drive for rideshare and delivery companies, like Lyft, UberEats, and DoorDash. These companies either offer their own fleet of vehicles or partner with third-party firms to provide vehicles for drivers who don’t own a car.
If you drive an older vehicle or don’t want to use your own for work, a rideshare rental can keep you on the road for as little as $30 per day.
There are certain requirements drivers must meet to rent a car for ridesharing. These requirements will vary by company, but typically you must:
- Be at least 21 years old with a valid driver’s license
- Own a smartphone
- Have no major traffic violations, such as a DUI or reckless driving
- Have a credit or debit card in your name for the security deposit
- Pass a criminal background check
Some rideshare rental companies have a minimum age of 25, while others will check your credit score and criminal background. Each company will also weigh traffic violations differently, and you may not be able to rent a car from certain places if you have too many speeding tickets or other minor violations.
Fortunately, drivers have many options when it comes to ridesharing car rentals. Keep reading to see which rideshare rental car companies are available in your city.
Subsequently, many drivers opt for car rentals for Uber and Lyft drivers as a flexible and convenient solution. There are several programs available that cater specifically to rideshare drivers. For instance, rental cars from Avis for Lyft drivers offer a reliable option with competitive rates and insurance coverage tailored to rideshare needs.
Additionally, the Avis and Uber rental car program provides another viable choice for those looking to drive for Uber using a rental vehicle. These programs are designed to make it easy for drivers to get on the road without the long-term commitment of purchasing a car.
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What Companies Provide RideShare Rental Cars
Uber Marketplace
The Uber Marketplace gives drivers three rideshare rental car options: Avis, Getaround, and Zipcar. All three are third-party companies partnered with Uber to provide ridesharing rental cars.
Drivers can find rental cars directly on the Uber driver app — simply log into your account and choose your preferred company.
Double-check the driver requirements before choosing a vehicle and note the different rates. For example, Avis charges an average of $200 per week for ridesharing car rentals. Compare this to Getaround and Zipcar, which charge an hourly rate between $4 and $5. If you only drive for Uber part-time, you may save money with an hourly company.
Also, the Uber Marketplace offers various resources to help drivers get on the road, including comprehensive insurance options. For those utilizing rental vehicles, uber car rental insurance ensures that drivers have the necessary coverage to protect themselves and their passengers.
Additionally, Progressive insurance for an Uber provides further support and peace of mind with specialized policies tailored to the unique needs of rideshare drivers. Together, these insurance options help drivers feel secure and confident while working, knowing they are well-protected in any situation.
Lyft Express Drive
Like Uber, Lyft partners with third-party rental companies. Drivers can use the Lyft driver app to rent vehicles from Hertz, Avis, or Flexdrive for around $200/week, but you can lower your rental costs by choosing different pricing and mileage plans.
However, Lyft has certain requirements for rental drivers:
- Drivers must give a minimum number of rides per week.
- Drivers can only use rental cars for Lyft and not other rideshare or delivery companies.
- Drivers must be 25 years or older.
Lyft Express Drive is available only in major cities like Boston, New York, and Phoenix. If you live in a small town, you may have to choose a local rideshare rental company.
Also, the Lyft Express Drive program offers flexible options for those looking to drive for Lyft without owning a car. Through this program, drivers can lease a car through Lyft, allowing them to get on the road quickly with minimal upfront costs.
Additionally, the program provides the option for buying a car through Lyft, which is ideal for drivers who want to eventually own their vehicle. This flexibility makes the Lyft Express Drive an attractive option for new and existing drivers, providing the necessary support and resources to help them succeed in the rideshare industry.
Hertz Rideshare Program
Hertz rideshare rentals are only available to Lyft and Uber drivers. However, drivers have unlimited miles for both personal use and rideshare driving. Weekly rates for a four-door sedan average at $200, and drivers can keep rentals for up to 28 days. Hertz has a partnership with Lyft Express Drive in select cities.
The Hertz Rideshare Program also provides state minimum liability coverage regardless of whether you’re working. It also provides an additional $1,000 in loss damage coverages while the rideshare app is on. However, drivers should carry additional insurance to protect themselves in the event of an accident.
Moreover, the Hertz Rideshare Program offers a convenient solution for those looking to drive for Lyft without owning a vehicle. Through Hertz’s Express Drive program for Lyft drivers, participants can access rental vehicles specifically designed for rideshare use, providing both flexibility and affordability.
This program includes rental cars from Hertz for Lyft drivers, ensuring that drivers have access to reliable and well-maintained vehicles. With comprehensive insurance coverage and maintenance included, the Hertz Rideshare Program allows drivers to focus on their work without worrying about the hassles of vehicle ownership and upkeep.
RideShare Rental
RideShare Rental is a third-party company that provides rental cars to drivers who work for all rideshare and delivery services. The website connects rideshare drivers with individuals and companies with fleets to rent.
Drivers download the Rideshare Rental app and create an account to verify their identity, driving eligibility, and criminal background. Then, you can choose the type of vehicle you want and book it for the dates you want to drive. Renters and lessors agree on a pickup location and time, and drivers can extend their rentals by the day, week, or month.
Those who want to share their cars must create an account on the RideShare Rental website. RideShare Rental will approve their fleet of vehicles before listing them as available to drivers.
Also, when considering RideShare Rental options, the Avis rideshare program stands out as one of the best rideshare rental companies. This program offers a convenient and reliable solution for those interested in renting a car for ridesharing.
With well-maintained vehicles, comprehensive insurance coverage, and flexible rental terms, Avis provides drivers with everything they need to succeed in the rideshare industry. The combination of quality service and competitive rates makes the Avis rideshare program an excellent choice for both new and experienced drivers.
HyreCar
HyreCar partners with Uber, Lyft, Postmates, DoorDash, and Shipt. It’s one of the most flexible options for rideshare and delivery drivers who work for more than one company at once.
The HyreCar app connects drivers with vehicle owners who want to rent out their cars. Drivers and owners coordinate bookings, pickup times, and leasing lengths. The average HyreCar rental rates are between $35 and $45 per day, making it one of the cheapest rideshare car rentals on this list.
However, this isn’t an extensive list of rideshare rental companies. Ridesharing depends heavily on your city, and you may have other options in your area. Speak with your rideshare company about where to find the best rideshare rental car options near you.
In addition, HyreCar is a popular platform that connects rideshare drivers with rental vehicles, offering a flexible solution for those without a car. There are apps similar to HyreCar that provide comparable services, but HyreCar stands out due to its specific focus on rideshare and delivery drivers.
When considering age requirements for renting a car through HyreCar, drivers must typically be at least 21 years old, although this can vary by location. To ensure the safety and reliability of the vehicles, HyreCar car listing requirements include up-to-date maintenance and insurance.
Also, the HyreCar car requirements specify that vehicles must meet certain standards, such as being a 2008 model or newer and having fewer than 125,000 miles, to ensure a smooth experience for both owners and drivers.
Many companies provide rideshare rental cars, offering flexible options to suit different needs. For instance, drivers can explore leasing cars for Uber to find convenient, cost-effective solutions for hitting the road.
Additionally, the Lyft leasing program and the rent-to-own program for a car with Lyft offer great alternatives for those who prefer leasing or owning a vehicle over renting. If you’re looking to become a Lyft driver by using a rental car, these programs can help you get started quickly and affordably, ensuring you have the right vehicle to meet the demands of ridesharing.
What Kind of Auto Insurance do I Need as a RideShare Driver
Don’t assume your rideshare company or rental car company has auto insurance. Most of the time, these companies provide the state’s minimum insurance to protect themselves if you’re in an at-fault accident.
If you don’t carry rideshare insurance or a commercial auto policy, you risk driving without insurance while you work. For example, Uber insurance only provides third-party liability coverage while waiting for a ride. It does offer additional comprehensive and collision insurance when you pick up a passenger, but only if you carry a full coverage policy.
Carrying full coverage is best if you drive for a ridesharing company. The amount of time you spend on the road increases the odds of getting into an accident, and you need the right coverage to pay for any damages or injuries you incur.
Rideshare insurance provides the kind of coverage you need at all times:
- When the app is off and you’re driving for personal use
- When the app is on and you’re waiting for a ride
- When the app is on and you’re with a passenger or delivery
If you only carry personal insurance, it won’t apply when the rideshare app is on. Only rideshare insurance covers you during the odd times when you don’t have a customer or when the app is off.
Many major insurers offer rideshare insurance or add-ons to help drivers save money on coverage. The table below shows rideshare insurance rates with some of the biggest companies:
Monthly Rideshare Auto Insurance Rates by Provider
Insurance Company Minimum Coverage Full Coverage
$135 $180
$130 $175
$140 $185
$120 $165
$125 $170
$145 $190
$135 $180
$140 $185
$130 $175
$125 $170
$120 $160
Your rates vary based on where you live and the kind of car you drive. If you rent a car for rideshare, you may have additional insurance coverage from the rental company. Check your policy and your rental agreement terms before comparing auto insurance quotes.
Also, as a rideshare driver, having the right auto insurance is crucial to ensure you are protected on the road. One important consideration is addressing the Lyft insurance gap. This gap occurs because personal auto insurance policies typically do not cover rideshare activities, and Lyft’s insurance only fully covers drivers while they have passengers or are en route to pick them up.
To bridge this gap, you need a rideshare-specific insurance policy. Mercury insurance for rideshare drivers is one such option that provides coverage during the periods when the app is on, but you are waiting for a ride request. This type of insurance ensures that you are protected at all times, regardless of whether you have passengers.
In addition to addressing the insurance gap, it’s essential to consider insurance for rental cars used in ridesharing. If you are renting a vehicle to drive for Lyft, you need to ensure that the rental insurance covers rideshare activities. Many rental companies, like Hertz, offer programs such as Lyft rental from Hertz that include insurance coverage specifically designed for rideshare drivers.
There are also various rental car options available for Lyft drivers that provide flexible rental options for commercial vehicles, ensuring that you can find a plan that suits your needs. By choosing a rental program with comprehensive insurance, you can drive confidently, knowing you are fully protected while on the job.
What You Need to Know About Ridesharing Car Rentals
It’s possible to have a rideshare car rental through the Uber Marketplace and Lyft Express Drive, but drivers can also choose to rent a car through a third party. Third-party rideshare rental car options like HyreCar don’t always limit drivers to one platform, making it a better choice for drivers working with more than one rideshare or delivery service.
However, third-party options are less likely to offer auto insurance coverage. While Uber, Lyft, and Hertz provide liability policies, other companies may not. You may have to provide proof of insurance, and you’ll need to carry a rideshare policy.
Moreover, when considering ridesharing car rentals, it’s essential to understand the different options and requirements available. Companies like Allstate car-sharing offer innovative solutions that allow drivers to rent vehicles specifically for rideshare purposes. This can be a great alternative to owning a car, especially for those who want to minimize costs and responsibilities.
For car hire for Uber drivers, various rental programs provide vehicles equipped and insured for rideshare driving, ensuring drivers meet Uber’s standards. Additionally, understanding the minimum age required to rent a Zipcar is crucial, as Zipcar is another popular choice for rideshare drivers looking for flexible rental options.
Another aspect to consider is the variety of car rental services offered by Mercury auto insurance, which can be tailored to meet the specific needs of rideshare drivers. These services often include comprehensive insurance coverage, maintenance, and roadside assistance, making them ideal for those who rely on their vehicle for income.
Choosing the right rideshare vehicle and partnering with a reputable rideshare vehicle provider can significantly impact your success and security as a driver. With numerous options available, it’s important to research and select the best rental program that fits your needs, ensuring you are well-protected and equipped for the demands of ridesharing.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I rent a car to drive for Uber or Lyft?
Yes, you can rent a car to drive for rideshare and delivery companies like Uber and Lyft. These companies either offer their own fleet of vehicles or partner with third-party firms to provide vehicles for drivers who don’t own a car.
What companies provide rideshare rental cars?
Uber and Lyft provide rental cars for drivers through Uber Marketplace and Lyft Express Drive. Additionally, rental car companies such as Avis, Hertz, and HyreCar offer rideshare rental cars. There are also third-party options like RideShare Rental and Zipcar available.
What kind of auto insurance do I need as a rideshare driver?
As a rideshare driver, it is important to have appropriate insurance coverage. Most rideshare companies provide limited insurance coverage, so it is recommended to have rideshare insurance or a commercial auto policy. Rideshare insurance provides coverage during all times while you are driving for the rideshare company, including periods when you don’t have a passenger.
How can I find the cheapest rideshare rental cars?
To find the cheapest rideshare rental cars, you can compare rates and options from different rental companies. Uber Marketplace and Lyft Express Drive offer rental cars directly through their apps. Third-party companies like HyreCar, RideShare Rental, and Zipcar also provide rideshare rental car options. It’s important to compare rates, terms, and insurance coverage offered by different companies.
What should I know about ridesharing car rentals?
When renting a car for ridesharing, it’s essential to check the requirements and restrictions set by the rental company. Some companies have age restrictions, credit score checks, and different policies regarding traffic violations. It’s also important to ensure you have proper auto insurance coverage, either through the rental company or by obtaining rideshare insurance.
Can you use a Lyft rental car for personal use?
Yes, you can use a Lyft rental car for personal use when you are not driving for Lyft. The Lyft Express Drive program allows drivers to use the car for personal errands, trips, and non-Lyft related activities. However, it is important to review the rental agreement as some terms and conditions may apply, such as mileage limits or additional costs for personal use.
Can I drive Lyft with a rental car?
Yes, you can drive Lyft with a rental car. Lyft has partnerships with several rental companies through programs like Lyft Express Drive, which provide vehicles specifically for rideshare driving. These rental cars are pre-approved to meet Lyft’s vehicle requirements, and the rental agreements typically include necessary insurance and maintenance.
Can I rent a car and use it for Uber?
Yes, you can rent a car and use it for Uber through various rental programs that partner with Uber. Programs like Uber’s Vehicle Solutions or Uber’s partnership with rental companies like Hertz and Enterprise provide vehicles that meet Uber’s requirements. These rentals often include insurance and maintenance, allowing you to drive for Uber without owning a car.
Can I use a Getaround car for Lyft?
Yes, you can use a Getaround car for Lyft as long as it meets Lyft’s vehicle requirements. Getaround offers car rentals that are available by the hour or day, making it a flexible option for Lyft drivers. Ensure the car is eligible for Lyft and has the necessary insurance coverage before starting to drive.
Does Geico offer rideshare insurance coverage?
Yes, Geico offers rideshare insurance coverage. This type of insurance provides additional protection when you are driving for a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft. Geico’s rideshare insurance fills the gap between your personal auto policy and the commercial insurance provided by the rideshare company, ensuring you have comprehensive coverage at all times.
Does the Uber car rental include insurance?
Yes, the Uber car rental typically includes insurance that covers you while you are driving for Uber. This insurance is part of the rental agreement and usually provides liability coverage, comprehensive and collision coverage. It’s important to confirm the details with the rental provider to understand what is included and any potential out-of-pocket costs.
How does the process of renting a car from Uber work?
The process of renting a car from Uber involves several steps. First, you need to sign up on the Uber platform and qualify as a driver. Next, you choose a rental partner from Uber’s approved list, such as Hertz or Enterprise. You complete the rental agreement, which includes providing necessary documents and meeting the rental requirements. Finally, you pick up the car from the rental location. The rental agreement often includes insurance and maintenance.
How does rideshare insurance coverage work?
Rideshare insurance coverage works by filling the gap between your personal auto insurance and the insurance provided by the rideshare company. Personal auto policies usually do not cover rideshare activities, and rideshare company insurance only fully covers you when you have passengers or are en route to pick them up. Rideshare insurance ensures you are protected during all phases of driving, from waiting for a ride request to completing the trip.
How much does it cost to rent a car with Lyft?
The cost to rent a car with Lyft varies based on the rental provider, location, and duration of the rental. Typically, costs can range from $200 to $300 per week. This fee often includes insurance, maintenance, and mileage. Some programs may offer unlimited mileage, while others have mileage limits, so it’s important to review the terms before renting.
How do I rent a car through Uber?
To rent a car through Uber, you need to follow these steps: sign up on the Uber platform and become an approved driver, choose a rental partner from Uber’s network, such as Hertz or Enterprise, complete the rental agreement by providing necessary documents and meeting rental requirements, and pick up the car from the rental location. The rental typically includes insurance and maintenance, allowing you to start driving for Uber immediately.
Do you need insurance to rent a car from Uber?
Yes, you need insurance to rent a car from Uber. Most rental programs that partner with Uber include insurance in the rental agreement, which covers you while driving for Uber. This insurance typically includes liability, comprehensive, and collision coverage. It’s important to verify the specifics with the rental provider to ensure you have adequate protection.
Can you use an Uber rental for Lyft?
Generally, Uber rental cars are intended for use with Uber, and using an Uber rental for Lyft may violate the rental agreement. Each rental program has specific terms and conditions, so it’s important to check with the rental provider before using the car for another rideshare service like Lyft.
Can you use an Uber rental for personal use?
Yes, you can use an Uber rental for personal use when you are not driving for Uber. However, it’s important to review the rental agreement for any restrictions or additional costs associated with personal use. Some rental programs may have mileage limits or other conditions for personal use.
Can you use a Zipcar to drive for Uber?
Yes, you can use a Zipcar to drive for Uber as long as it meets Uber’s vehicle requirements and you have the necessary insurance coverage. Zipcar offers flexible, short-term rentals that can be a convenient option for rideshare drivers. Ensure the Zipcar is eligible for Uber before starting to drive.
Can you rent to own a car with Lyft?
Yes, Lyft offers a rent-to-own program where drivers can eventually own the car after completing a lease term and meeting specific conditions. This program is designed to provide a path to vehicle ownership for drivers who prefer to own their car rather than continue renting. The rent-to-own option typically includes insurance and maintenance during the lease period.
Free Auto Insurance Comparison
Enter your ZIP code below to view companies that have cheap auto insurance rates.
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Scott W. Johnson
Licensed Insurance Agent
Scott W Johnson is an independent insurance agent in California. Principal Broker and founder of Marindependent Insurance Services, Scott brings over 25 years of experience to his clients. His Five President’s Council awards prove he uses all he learned at Avocet, Sprint Nextel, and Farmers Insurance to the benefit of his clients. Scott quickly grasped the unique insurance requirements of his...
Licensed Insurance Agent
Editorial Guidelines: We are a free online resource for anyone interested in learning more about auto insurance. Our goal is to be an objective, third-party resource for everything auto insurance related. We update our site regularly, and all content is reviewed by auto insurance experts.