Private Hire Taxi Insurance For Uber Drivers

Uber has completely changed the taxi business. Whether you’re a veteran cabbie looking into becoming an Uber driver or just starting as an Uber driver to supplement another income, it’s vital to have the right insurance policy in place. 

Uber taxi insurance can seem intimidating and confusing even to the most seasoned taxi drivers, so we thought we’d break down everything you need to consider when getting Uber taxi insurance. 

What type of insurance will Uber drivers need?

In the US, Uber offers insurance for part of the private hire journey, but personal insurance must be purchased when driving without passengers. However, in the UK, this insurance option is not provided.

Uber drivers in the UK require private hire insurance, also known as hire and reward. Uber is not responsible for its UK driver’s insurance as they do not own vehicles. It is ultimately the driver’s responsibility to ensure their Uber taxi has the correct insurance, which must be proven to Uber during the onboarding process. 

What are other insurance options for Uber drivers?

If you require more than just insurance for your Uber car, we offer a range of optional extras to help you get the cover you want. These include breakdown cover, excess protection and liability insurance.

Additional cover you may be interested in

Chauffeur insurance: Get the chauffeur cover you require to provide your customers with top-class service.

Why choose Uber private hire insurance with Staveley Head?

• We offer specialist Private Hire Insurance for Hire and Reward and social use.
• Public Liability is available as an optional extra.
• You can talk directly to our experienced and dedicated taxi insurance team.
• Our UK-based claims team operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, via phone at 01244 730010. 
• You can get a quote via phone at 0800 0815 025 or online for private hire insurance for your Uber vehicle today.

What is Uber?

 Uber is a private hire taxi service that operates via an easy-to-use app. It was founded in the USA in 2009, and its services eventually reached the UK in 2012. London was the first city to trial Uber, and the company rapidly grew to have a presence across the UK.

The Uber app allows users to instantly book a trip and pay for the journey online via card instead of paying for a cab with cash. Uber also has access to many drivers to provide quick service, and this accessibility has transformed the taxi landscape.

What taxi services do Uber drivers provide?

Uber offers the following services and vehicles in the UK:

• UberX – A ‘low cost’ travel option accommodating up to four passengers.
• Local Cab – A regional-based option allowing customers to book a trip with a local taxi company. Availability depends on your location. 
• UberASSIST & Uber ACCESS – A more specialised option for riders with accessibility needs and mobility difficulties. Drivers are trained to help customers board and get off the vehicle, which can hold folding wheelchairs, walking frames. Service animals are also permitted to ride too.
• UberXL – Virtually the same as UberX but accommodating six passengers.
• UberEXEC – The luxury option for four passengers, expect to travel in vehicles such as Audi A6, BMW 5-Series or Mercedes E-Class.
• UberLUX – You’ll be travelling in style in one of the following vehicles Mercedes-Benz S-Class, Audi A8 or BMW 7-series.

Who can be an Uber driver?

There are some minimum requirements you’ll need to drive with Uber, such as:

• Being at least 21 years of age.
• Holding a valid UK driver’s licence.
• You’ll need a private hire licence from a council that licences Uber.
• The required years of driving experience will depend on the city where you’re based.
• You’ll need a vehicle that should be at least 2008 or newer.

Successful applicants attend an onboarding process where they must prove they have the required skills, training and knowledge to drive for Uber.

What type of vehicle do I need to drive for Uber?

The type of car you need to drive for Uber can vary depending on location. Uber is following suit with the taxi industry moving closer to embracing more electric vehicles. 

In a nutshell, to meet the requirements to drive an Uber taxi, your car must: 

• Have a model year that meets local licensing authority regulations. 
• Be a four-door car or minivan. 
• Not have any brand logo.
• Be in good working condition and have no surface damage.
• Be licensed for transporting at least four passengers.

If you are working for Uber in London, there are a few additional regulations from 1st January 2023:

• Your taxi must be Zero Emission Capable (ZEC).
• Your vehicle must meet the Euro 6 emission standards. 

What are Euro 6 emissions standards?

The Euro emission standard was created in 1993 to lower car-generated pollution. Many cars made after 2015 will have been designed to meet the up-to-date Euro 6 standards. It is essential to double-check the model and make of your car, as only some vehicles will comply.

What is a ZEC taxi?

A Zero Emission Capable (ZEC) vehicle is a car that will be able to run with an estimated zero emissions within 20 miles (32km). These types of cars include electric models with rechargeable batteries and hybrid cars. 

How much will private hire taxi insurance for Uber drivers cost?

Our private hire insurance for Uber drivers provides comprehensive and third-party fire and theft cover. You can find out more online by getting a quick private hire insurance quote. Alternatively, you can call our dedicated Uber team at 0800 023 7213 and get on the road towards being insured.