Pennsylvania requires rideshare insurance if you drive for a transportation network company, like Uber or Lyft. This specialized coverage is designed to bridge the gap between your personal policy and what Uber or Lyft provides. It protects you throughout all phases of rideshare driving, from waiting for a ride request to dropping off passengers.
Here’s what you need to know about getting the right car insurance coverage in the Keystone State.1
Cost of rideshare insurance in Pennsylvania
On average, rideshare insurance in Pennsylvania runs about $239 per month for full coverage and $128 for liability-only coverage. But your rates can vary depending on where you live, your driving history, and the level of coverage you choose. Some drivers in Philadelphia might pay more than drivers in Pittsburgh or smaller cities due to higher accident rates and traffic density.2
Here are the most affordable rideshare insurance options in Pennsylvania, according to Insurify data.
Best rideshare insurance companies in Pennsylvania
While it’s tempting to go for the lowest premium, choosing the best rideshare insurance in Pennsylvania means looking beyond just price. Coverage quality can make all the difference when you’re on the road.
State Farm: Best for customer service and claims
Erie Insurance: Best for local expertise
GEICO: Best for tech-savvy drivers
Rideshare insurance requirements in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania requires drivers to have certain insurance coverage in place before driving for a transportation network company, like Uber or Lyft. Your insurance needs shift throughout your day, depending on which of the three distinct phases you’re in when a car accident occurs.3
Phase 1: Personal driving (app off). Your personal auto insurance covers you while off the clock.
Phase 2: App on, no ride accepted. State law requires you to beef up your coverage, even before you accept a ride. You’ll need:
$50,000 bodily injury per person
$100,000 bodily injury per accident
$25,000 property damage liability
$25,000 pedestrian medical coverage
$5,000 driver medical coverage
During this phase, Uber and Lyft provide matching backup coverage for bodily injury and property damage liability. Still, it may only kick in after you file a claim with your auto insurance company.
Phase 3: After accepting a ride. At this phase, coverage requirements jump to $500,000 in bodily injury liability protection. Uber and Lyft each offer $1 million in liability coverage, plus comprehensive and collision coverage if you have it on your personal insurance policy.
Requirements to drive for Uber and Lyft in Pennsylvania
Before hitting the road as a rideshare driver in Pennsylvania, Uber and Lyft have specific requirements for you and your car.
Rideshare car requirements
Uber and Lyft have strict rideshare vehicle standards. A four-door car (2009 or newer), valid registration, seat belts, and insurance proof are must-haves. Your vehicle must also have:
Valid Pennsylvania registration
5–8 seats with working seat belts
Current proof of insurance
Rideshare driver requirements
You’ll need at least one year of driving experience, a valid driver’s license, and to pass a driver screening review. But Uber and Lyft have different age restrictions — Lyft drivers must be 25 years or older, while Uber generally sets the minimum age to 18 (but you’ll need three years of driving experience if you’re younger than 23).
Types of rideshare insurance coverage
As a rideshare driver, it’s important to understand each type of coverage and how it protects you. Here’s a breakdown: