Best Auto Insurance for Instacart Drivers in 2024

Instacart is an app that allows people to place grocery orders from stores in their area. Individuals can also sign up to become a shopper and/or driver, where they gather and deliver those orders.

Since Instacart delivery drivers use their own vehicles, Instacart auto insurance requirements need to be met, along with the requirements for your state and insurance company. Below, we’ll discuss what your best options are to make sure you’re covered.

If you need help finding a policy that’s right for you, enter your ZIP code above to start comparing auto insurance quotes today.

Do you need auto insurance to become an Instacart delivery driver?

Yes, Instacart requires all of their delivery drivers to provide proof of a personal auto insurance policy before they can begin driving for the company. They do not, however, provide any type of insurance for their drivers.

Instacart auto insurance classifications label its drivers as independent contractors, meaning you are fully responsible for meeting insurance requirements for your state and insurance company.

Instacart’s other requirements to become a driver are pretty common, including being able to lift 50 pounds and making sure you have a vehicle large enough to fit groceries. Other than that, it’s fairly easy to become a driver.

You just download the Shopper app, sign up for an account, pass a background check, and you’re in.

Read more: Instacart Health Insurance Review

Will my personal policy cover me if I’m in an accident?

Your personal auto insurance will most likely not cover you if you’re in an accident while you’re driving for your Instacart work. However, you should always report your occupation to your personal auto insurance provider.

If you fail to tell the auto insurance company you are a driver for Instacart, you risk having claims denied or having your coverage canceled. You should contact your insurance company to discuss your coverage options for being a delivery driver.

Some policies include a limited amount of business-use in your personal policy, but most insurers are likely to require you to purchase additional coverage.

To make sure you are getting the best price, always compare auto insurance rates before you choose a company to buy auto insurance from.

Do I need to buy commercial auto insurance?

It may be in your best interest to purchase commercial auto insurance as an Instacart delivery driver. Commercial auto insurance may be more expensive than personal auto insurance, but it will offer coverage for your business hours and activities.

If you deliver less than part-time, you may be able to qualify for a business-use add-on through your personal insurer. This will still come at an extra fee, but it is cheaper than a commercial insurance policy, and you’ll still be covered for some business time.

Wrap Up: Instacart Auto Insurance

Instacart delivery drivers are required to have a personal auto insurance policy. However, this does not mean your personal auto insurance will necessarily cover you if you’re in an accident during work activities.

When you buy Instacart auto insurance, you should consider purchasing either a commercial auto insurance policy or a business-use add-on for your personal policy.  Since you are responsible for your own insurance premiums and any costs associated with accidents or damage to your vehicle.

An affordable auto insurance policy could be right around the corner. Use our free quote comparison tool by entering your ZIP code to start shopping now.