What are Lyft’s car requirements?

Lyft is one of the largest ridesharing companies in the United States. To protect the safety of its drivers and passengers, certain rules are in place regarding vehicle age, car insurance requirements for Lyft, and more.

To drive for Lyft, people and their vehicles must meet a variety of requirements. Some Lyft car requirements may vary depending on the state, so it’s a good idea to check local laws and to continue to look out for updates in rules or regulations while you work for Lyft. 

Here are the requirements for driving for Lyft.

What are the Lyft car requirements?

By law, vehicles already legally classified as taxis or limousines can’t be Lyft vehicles. Lyft usually doesn’t approve subcompact cars, trucks, or large SUVs, either. In most areas, it also won’t allow vehicles with titles marked as salvage, rebuilt vehicles, or those classified as not repairable.

Lyft cars need four doors, at least five functioning seat belts, and seats for five to eight people. They also need to be in good condition. 

For example, your account will be suspended if your vehicle has faulty or malfunctioning safety equipment. To prevent this, make sure you maintain your vehicle regularly, at the intervals recommended by the manufacturer.

Most states require cars to pass bumper-to-bumper inspections before people can use them with Lyft. They usually need to be less than 15 years old as well. However, some state laws allow older Lyft vehicles. 

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What are the requirements for Lyft Drivers?

The legal requirements for Lyft drivers vary from state to state, and some cities have their own regulations. However, all Lyft drivers must have a valid, state-issued driver’s license and pass a background check and official driver screening. 

Anyone who has been found guilty of a violent crime or a DUI in the past seven years can’t work as a rideshare driver through Lyft. In addition, using illegal drugs or allowing passengers to use drugs can result in being banned from the app as well. You could also get less severe penalties for more minor violations like speeding.

Drivers also need to complete the Lyft Community Safety Education Program and use a device like a smartphone capable of handling the company app.

Lyft drivers must have proof of current vehicle registrations, carry the minimum legal amount of car insurance required in their states, and have valid vehicle license plates. In some states, rideshare drivers may need additional coverage. Check your area’s laws and regulations to make sure you comply with local Lyft insurance requirements.

Lyft Age Requirements

Lyft drivers usually need to be at least 21 years old, but some states require drivers to be as old as 25. The company also has an age requirement for passengers — no Lyft rideshare drivers can transport an unaccompanied minor. 

Everyone who rides in a Lyft vehicle must be either at least 18 years old or under the direct supervision of someone aged 18 or older. In some states, giving a ride to an unaccompanied minor without permission from a parent or guardian could be considered felony kidnapping.

What are the Lyft insurance requirements?

Lyft drivers receive some additional coverage while driving for Lyft, but you may want to consider buying commercial or rideshare insurance. Personal insurance policies will not cover accidents while a vehicle is being used for business purposes, and a commercial policy may not apply when you are waiting on customers. 

Rideshare insurance takes care of this gap while you’re active in the Lyft app. Lyft also partners with several insurance companies to provide rideshare coverage, including Allstate, Liberty Mutual, Progressive, and State Farm. 

Keep in mind that driving for Lyft may impact your insurance rates, so shop around with multiple companies to find the most affordable auto insurance quotes.

How to Find the Car Requirements for Lyft Drivers

Qualifications for Lyft drivers are fairly straightforward and listed on the company website. However, state laws can impact Lyft requirements in your city. For example, vehicles made before 2005 aren’t eligible for Lyft in some states. 

Be sure to check the requirements for your area before you apply to become a driver with Lyft.

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