Can an employer demand that I provide them with proof of auto insurance to prove reliable transportation?

Question

Can an employer demand that I provide them with proof of auto insurance to prove reliable transportation?

Anonymous Mar 30, 2011 14 views 2 answers

I do not drive my personal vehicle for my company under any circumstance, in fact employees are prohibited to do so, nor do I drive my vehicle while "on the clock". Is it legal for my employer to demand, a year after I have been working for the company, that I provide them with a copy of my auto insurance policy to prove that I have reliable transportation to work? I have never had an issue with getting to work, and I have never missed any work, let alone due to a transportation problem. I live 3 miles from work. And last I checked I can walk, bike, skate, etc. to work if I wish as long as I arrive on time for my shift. Also, I believe an employer only has the right to ask a potential employee if they have reliable transportation to work, but not what kind of transportation. Am I correct?

Charles Candiano · Accepted Answer · 2026-06-15T10:34:14+00:00

I am not licensed in Michigan but I believe it woul apply. You have identified all of the relevant issues in defense of your position. You have told us why you believe the practice to be manifestly unreasonable but you have NOT told us why you believe it is illegal. Discrimination is NOT illegal. Discrimination on the basis of a protected trait (e.g. age, sex, race, etc) is illegal. There is no special protection for folks who do not drive and there certainly is no pspecial protection for folks who do drive uninsured. My analysis would be that the practice is ridiculous but not illegal. If this information has been helpful, please indicate by clicking the thumbs-up icon below. Legal Disclaimer: Mr. Candiano is licensed to practice law in Illinois and Indiana. The response herein is not legal advice and does not create an attorney/client relationship. The response is in the form of legal education and is intended to provide general information about the matter within the question. You may contact the writer with these links: [email protected] http://www.themargolisfirm.com

John Swimmer · Accepted Answer · 2026-06-15T10:34:14+00:00

You should start by checking your employee handbook. Your employer may ask if you have reliable transportation to work, but this may be a subtle form of discrimination if the employer acts on it by taking an adverse employment action against if you show up to work on time.

Can an employer demand that I provide them with proof of auto insurance to prove reliable transportation?

Attorney Answers

Browse by Practice Area

Browse by State