Driver business guidesCA
Start your business in California
Start with CPUC's charter-party carrier (TCP) guidance for prearranged private transportation. The authority you need depends on your service; confirm the appropriate category with CPUC.
Sources reviewed:
Register your business
Choose your entity type and complete the relevant Secretary of State filings. Review the business documents CPUC requires before applying for transportation authority.
Confirm your operating permits
Review the TCP permit or certificate categories and apply through CPUC's Transportation Carrier Portal. Wait until the appropriate operating authority is active before providing services that require it.
Prepare your vehicle and insurance
Review CPUC insurance filings, DMV Employer Pull Notice and drug/alcohol testing requirements. Vehicle inspections depend on the equipment you operate, including buses and modified limousines.
Check airport access
CPUC directs carriers to contact each airport's ground transportation office about airport permits. Confirm the access agreement and pickup rules for every airport you plan to serve.
Prepare for your first bookings
Once you have the required permits and insurance, give customers a clear way to find your company and book with you.
- Set your services, coverage area, prices and cancellation policies.
- Share your booking page with your contacts, hotels and local businesses.
- Ask for reviews after trips and follow up with your customers.
Manage your company with PrivyRides
Organize your customers, bookings, prices and payments. With the applicable plan and a published profile, you can list your company in the marketplace and offer booking on your website.
Customers choose the company. Your company provides transportation and maintains its permits and insurance; a listing does not guarantee bookings.
Create a driver account