← Calculators · TVDE Portugal · 6 min read
TVDE Insurance in Portugal: the guide without the sales pitch
Regular car insurance isn't enough to drive for Uber, Bolt or Free Now — the law requires a specific policy built for professional use. Here's what you need to know before signing up, no sales pitch attached.
Why regular insurance doesn't work
Personal car insurance covers private use. The moment you accept paying passengers, you're using the car commercially — and if you have an accident on a personal policy, the insurer can simply refuse to pay, citing improper use. TVDE insurance exists specifically to close that gap.
What the law requires
Law 45/2018, of 10 August requires two types of coverage: civil liability adapted for professional use, with a minimum coverage of 7.75 million euros, and protection for transported passengers. This is the absolute minimum — without it, you're operating illegally and risk fines and vehicle impoundment, on top of having no real protection in an accident.
What it actually costs
There's no single figure — it depends on your age, driving history, the car you drive, and whether you add own-damage cover. As a general reference, TVDE insurance always costs more than equivalent personal insurance, reflecting the higher risk of a car in intensive professional use, often for hours at a stretch. It's always worth getting quotes from 3 or 4 insurers before deciding — the gap between the priciest and cheapest quote tends to be surprising.
Mandatory vs optional
Civil liability and passenger protection are mandatory by law. Own-damage cover — covering repairs to your own car even when you're at fault — is optional, but on newer or financed cars it usually pays off, since an accident without it can get very expensive out of pocket.
Frequently asked questions
Does regular car insurance work for TVDE?
No. You need a specific TVDE policy. Using personal insurance for professional activity can mean the insurer refuses to pay out on a claim, and is also illegal under the law regulating the activity.
How much does TVDE insurance cost in Portugal?
It varies a lot by driver profile and car, but is always higher than equivalent personal insurance, given the greater risk of intensive professional use. Comparing quotes from several insurers is the most effective way to avoid overpaying.
What minimum coverage is required?
Mandatory civil liability for TVDE has a minimum coverage of 7.75 million euros. For years it was common for insurers to require much higher amounts (15.5 or even 50 million), but that stopped being a legal requirement — they're still available as an option, not a requirement.
Do I need insurance if I work for a fleet company?
If you drive a car belonging to a TVDE fleet company, it's usually that company that arranges and pays for the vehicle's insurance. Still, it's always worth confirming in writing what's covered before you start working.