How to start private hire work when you don't own a car

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Ridesharing apps have not only revolutionised the way we move from A to B, but have also broadened the horizons of employment opportunities. The rise of technology has given people more choice as to how, when and where they work than ever before.

Driving with Uber and other on-demand services is a great way for people to make a profit in their free time and many drivers earn their living from private hire work. But there are a number of things you’ll need to have in place before you get started.

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Perhaps most importantly of all, you’ll need to have access to a car. Today, there are more options to get a car and earn a flexible income than ever before. It’s just a matter of finding a solution that best fits your lifestyle.

In this post, we’ll explore the different options available to you, so you can find a car, get out on the road and start earning as quickly as possible.

Rent to buy a car

A Rent to buy plan offers you the opportunity to put your weekly payments towards owning your car at the end of your contract. It’s like a traditional car lease, but includes more flexibility.

Our partner, Splend, specialise in providing Rent to buy cars to PCO drivers. As well as providing the paperwork required by Uber and TfL, Splend provides their members with dedicated support, advanced training and rewards.

Splend’s cars also include Zego’s Private Hire insurance package, so you have the protection you need from an insurance provider trusted by Uber.

Purchase a car

If you’re looking to purchase a car to use for Private Hire work, there are a number of things to consider. It’s important to make sure that the car you’re looking to buy is eligible to get a Private Hire Vehicle licence.

If you’re looking to work with Uber, you’ll need a vehicle that’s at least 2008 or newer. Click here for all the Uber car requirements.

You’ll also need to make sure that you have Private Hire insurance cover in place.

Use a family car

Many drivers use their family car for on-demand driving. If you think that this option is best for you, you’ll need to make sure your car is eligible to get a Private Hire Vehicle licence and take your car for an MoT inspection every six months.

You’ll also need to make sure that you have the necessary Private Hire insurance cover in place. It’s worth noting that this may prove to be more difficult if you are not the legal owner or registered keeper of the vehicle in question.

Rent a car

Some companies offer subscription type services, where you're able to rent a car to use for your private hire work for a set period of time. This option may suit you if you’re looking for a vehicle to use short-term.

Our partner, Splend, also provides PCO drivers access to a car on their Rent plan.

However, it’s important to check that the vehicle you rent is eligible for private hire work. You may also need to make sure that your vehicle has Private Hire insurance in place.

In short, it’s worth considering all the options available to you when you’re looking for a vehicle to use for private hire work. By choosing the option that best fits your lifestyle, you can get access to a vehicle that helps you earn a flexible income in a way that suits you.

For more information about Zego's products, you can visit our Private Hire insurance page.