Best Car Insurance for Uber and Bolt Drivers in South Africa (Updated 2025)

Driving for Uber or Bolt in South Africa comes with both opportunity and risk. Whether you’re a full-time e-hailing driver or part-time gig worker, having the right car insurance is not just a good idea, it’s a business essential. Standard personal car insurance is not designed for ride-hailing, which means that without a proper policy, your claims could be rejected if something goes wrong while transporting passengers.

In this updated 2025 guide, we’ll explore the best car insurance options for Uber and Bolt drivers in South Africa, compare the top insurers, break down the benefits, and help you choose a policy that protects your income, vehicle, and passengers.

What Is Ride-Hailing Car Insurance?

Ride-hailing insurance, also known as e-hailing insurance, is a special type of car insurance designed for drivers using their vehicles for services like Uber, Bolt, and other app-based transport platforms. Unlike personal car insurance, these policies include commercial coverage that protects you when you're carrying paying passengers.

Key differences from regular insurance:

• Covers you while transporting passengers

• Includes business-use classification

• May include passenger liability, vehicle downtime, and income protection

Why Uber and Bolt Drivers Need Special Insurance

As an Uber or Bolt driver, you are technically using your vehicle for commercial purposes. If you're in an accident while carrying a passenger and only have personal insurance, your claim may be denied.

Here’s why you need special coverage:

• Legal Protection: Some cities require e-hailing drivers to show proof of commercial insurance.

• Financial Security: Accidents can lead to costly repairs or lawsuits without coverage.

• Peace of Mind: Protects your income if your vehicle is out of commission due to an accident.

Summary Table: Best Car Insurance for Uber and Bolt Drivers in South Africa (2025)

1. Discovery Insure for Uber and Bolt Drivers

Why It Stands Out

Discovery offers a powerful insurance product that rewards safe driving with lower premiums, cashback, and access to health perks. Their VitalityDrive program is highly rated among professional drivers.

Key Benefits:

• Comprehensive e-hailing coverage

• Includes passenger liability cover

• Access to VitalityDrive points for fuel savings

• 24/7 emergency assistance and tracking

• Covers vehicle theft, accident, hijacking, and natural disasters

Best for: Uber and Bolt drivers who want health rewards and high-quality support.

2. OUTsurance Ride-Hailing Cover

Why It Stands Out

OUTsurance is known for its Cash OUT bonus and responsive customer service. They offer tailored policies specifically for Uber and Bolt drivers, including income protection and vehicle downtime cover.

Key Benefits:

• Optional vehicle hire benefit if yours is in repair

• Includes cover for loss of income after an accident

• Trusted claims process and quick payouts

• Emergency towing and roadside assistance

Best for: Drivers seeking peace of mind and long-term protection.

3. MiWay Business Assist for Uber/Bolt

Why It Stands Out

MiWay’s Business Assist policy includes ride-hailing coverage at an affordable price, making it ideal for part-time or budget-conscious drivers.

Key Benefits:

• Personal and business use under one policy

• WhatsApp and app-based claim service

• Covers damage, hijack, theft, and liability

• Emergency roadside assistance included

Best for: Drivers looking for affordable yet reliable insurance with app-based claims.

4. Bolt Ride Protect (Exclusive to Bolt Drivers)

Why It Stands Out

Bolt partners with select insurers to provide built-in third-party cover for all their registered drivers. While not a full commercial policy, it offers a base level of protection.

Key Benefits:

• Available automatically to active Bolt drivers

• Covers passenger injury or third-party damages

• Allows drivers to top-up with extra protection

• Easy access via the Bolt Driver app

Best for: Bolt drivers who want simple, platform-integrated insurance.

5. Santam Ride-Hailing Insurance

Why It Stands Out

Santam works through a strong broker network to provide highly customized e-hailing cover. It's ideal for new drivers or those who want to understand every detail of their policy.

Key Benefits:

• Full commercial policy with vehicle downtime cover

• Broker support for setting correct cover limits

• Legal and liability support

• Optional cover for loss of income and passenger injury

Best for: First-time or learner Uber drivers who want guidance.

6. King Price Insurance for E-Hailing

Why It Stands Out

King Price is known for their decreasing premium model, where your insurance cost drops as your car loses value. They also support customizations for Uber/Bolt usage.

Key Benefits:

• Tailored policies for e-hailing drivers

• Built-in accident and hijack cover

• GPS tracker and driver behavior discounts

• Fast online quotes and monthly flexibility

Best for: Drivers looking for value and long-term savings.

7. ABSA Vehicle and Driver Protection

Why It Stands Out

ABSA offers comprehensive cover to their account holders with options like driver injury benefits and income protection for e-hailing users.

Key Benefits:

• Built-in ride-hailing cover

• Bundle discounts for ABSA customers

• 24/7 emergency line and car hire options

• Covers medical bills after an accident

Best for: Uber or Bolt drivers with ABSA bank accounts.

8. Auto & General Ride-Hailing Cover

Why It Stands Out

Auto & General offers SmartDrive technology, allowing drivers to monitor their behavior and earn lower premiums over time.

Key Benefits:

• Usage-based pricing

• Rapid accident claims and roadside response

• Covers business use and theft

• Driver app with rewards

Best for: Tech-driven Uber/Bolt drivers who want dynamic pricing.

9. Old Mutual iWYZE Business Use Car Insurance

Why It Stands Out

Old Mutual iWYZE offers highly flexible business-use policies for drivers who want professional-grade support with a trusted national brand.

Key Benefits:

• Supports high-mileage vehicles

• Passenger and third-party liability

• Loyalty discounts and claims support

• Optional add-ons for windshield, fire, and towing

Best for: Long-time car owners and professional Uber/Bolt drivers.

10. Budget Insurance Ride-Hailing Add-On

Why It Stands Out

Budget Insurance allows drivers to add ride-hailing protection to their existing policy. This is perfect for part-time Uber or Bolt users.

Key Benefits:

• Fixed monthly cost

• Flexible add-on options

• Digital service management

• Covers theft, fire, and liability

Best for: Part-time drivers or side-hustlers using Uber/Bolt occasionally.

How to Choose the Best Car Insurance for Uber and Bolt Drivers

Choosing the right insurance policy can make the difference between stress and security. Here's what to consider:

1. Type of Coverage Needed

• Comprehensive e-hailing cover: Includes vehicle, passenger, and income protection.

• Third-party only: Covers damages caused to others (less ideal).

• Add-ons and bundles: For flexibility and cost savings.

2. Cost of Premiums

• Compare monthly and annual payments.

• Ask about driver tracking discounts.

• Look for rewards programs like VitalityDrive.

3. Claim Process and Support

• Choose insurers with 24/7 claims support.

• App-based claims are faster and more convenient.

• Look for options that offer vehicle replacement or downtime cover.

4. Income Protection and Downtime Benefits

• Important for full-time drivers.

• Helps you stay afloat while your car is being repaired.

5. Platform Compatibility

• Some policies are approved by Uber/Bolt.

• Others are built-in or integrated with the platform (e.g., Bolt Ride Protect).

Tips to Save Money on Uber/Bolt Insurance

• Install a tracking device for discounts.

• Drive safely to unlock usage-based rewards.

• Compare multiple quotes every year.

• Bundle with home or life insurance.

• Choose a vehicle with low repair costs and low-risk profile.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is personal car insurance enough for Uber or Bolt in South Africa?
No. Standard personal car insurance does not cover commercial ride-hailing activities. You need e-hailing insurance.

2. How much does Uber/Bolt car insurance cost per month?
Premiums can range from R800 to R2,000+ per month, depending on your car, location, driving record, and coverage type.

3. Which insurance companies are approved by Uber in South Africa?
OUTsurance, Discovery, MiWay, and Santam are among providers recognized for offering e-hailing insurance suitable for Uber drivers.

4. Can part-time Bolt drivers use personal insurance?
Not safely. If you’re driving for money, even part-time, you need to disclose this and get ride-hailing coverage.

5. What happens if I get into an accident while driving for Uber without proper insurance?
Your claim may be denied, and you could be personally liable for damages and injuries.

6. Does Bolt provide any insurance?
Yes, Bolt offers a basic third-party liability cover for its active drivers, but it’s minimal. Top-up cover is highly recommended.

7. What’s the difference between commercial and ride-hailing insurance?
Ride-hailing insurance is a specific type of commercial insurance tailored for Uber/Bolt drivers and includes passenger liability and downtime cover.

8. Does insurance cover my passengers in case of an accident?
Yes, if your policy includes passenger liability cover. Always confirm this in your policy terms.

9. Can I insure a second-hand car for Uber or Bolt driving?
Yes, but the car must still meet the platform’s safety and age requirements.

10. Can I switch insurers during my Uber driving period?
Yes, most insurers allow mid-policy cancellations, especially when switching to better coverage.

Conclusion: Drive Smart, Insure Right

Finding the best car insurance for Uber and Bolt drivers in South Africa is essential if you want to protect your earnings, passengers, and peace of mind. As the e-hailing economy grows, so do your insurance options. From trusted brands like OUTsurance and Discovery to affordable providers like MiWay and Budget Insurance, there's a plan for every driver.

Compare the policies, choose based on your driving frequency and budget, and always ensure your insurer knows you're using your car for ride-hailing. It’s not just about being covered—it’s about being covered correctly.

Your car is your business. Insure it the right way in 2025.