Quick Answer
What is California TCP insurance?
California TCP insurance is the CPUC-mandated commercial auto liability for charter-party carriers — at least $1.5M combined single limit, or $5M for vehicles seating 8+ passengers. The policy is filed directly with the CPUC via Form PL to keep the TCP permit active.
Permit Classes & Required Limits
California TCP Insurance Minimums
| Feature | TCP P (1-7) | TCP A (8-15) | TCP A (16+) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Auto Liability (CSL) | $1.5M | $5M | $5M |
| Form PL Required | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Drug & Alcohol Program | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Workers' Comp | If 1+ employee | Required | Required |
| Vehicle Inspections | Annual | Annual | Annual + 90-day |
Key Definitions
- TCP Permit Classes
- TCP P (1-7 passengers), TCP A (charter, 8+), TCP B (interstate), TCP C (scheduled service). Each has its own insurance and CPUC requirements.
- Form PL
- The CPUC's proof-of-insurance filing. Your insurer files this directly with the CPUC; if the filing lapses, your TCP permit is suspended automatically.
- Combined Single Limit
- A single liability limit that covers any combination of bodily injury and property damage in one accident. California TCP requires $1.5M or $5M depending on seating.
- CPUC Audit
- Periodic CPUC review of your TCP records — driver pull notice, vehicle inspections, drug & alcohol program, and proof of continuous insurance.
Where We Write California TCP Insurance
Frequently Asked Questions
What is TCP insurance in California?+
TCP insurance is the commercial auto liability coverage required by the California Public Utilities Commission for charter-party carriers — sedans, SUVs, limos, sprinters, and Uber Black vehicles. The minimum is $1.5M combined single limit, or $5M for vehicles seating 8+ passengers.
What's the difference between TCP and TNC in California?+
TCP (Transportation Charter-Party) governs pre-arranged for-hire vehicles — limos, Uber Black/SUV, and chauffeured services. TNC (Transportation Network Company) governs Uber/Lyft regular ride matching. Different permits, different filings, different insurance minimums.
How quickly are CPUC Form PL filings handled?+
Same-day filings on bound policies. Renewal filings are automatic before expiration so you never lose your TCP permit because of an insurance gap.
Do TCP carriers need workers' comp in California?+
Yes — California requires workers' comp the moment you have one or more employees, including drivers classified as W-2. We bundle workers' comp on the same policy package.
Can I write Uber Black / SUV under a TCP policy?+
Yes. California Uber Black drivers operate under TCP rules, not the TNC permit class. We write combined TCP / Uber Black policies for fleets running both.