ZERO RIDESHARE
DRIVER TERMS AND CONDITIONS
These Terms govern your use of the Zero Rideshare platform as an independent driver partner (Captain).
Effective date: May 1, 2026
Key Captain Standards & Guarantees
Introduction
These Terms and Conditions (“Terms”) govern your use of the Zero Rideshare platform (“Zero” or “Platform”) as a driver (“Captain”). By registering on Zero you agree to these Terms in full. Zero Rideshare Inc. is a California corporation operating as a Transportation Network Company (“TNC”) across all states where it holds the required permits and licences.
Zero operates a marketplace platform that connects independent Captains with riders. Zero does not provide transportation services directly.
Purpose of the app
This app is intended for driver pre-registration and onboarding evaluation. Submission of your information does not guarantee approval, activation, or engagement, does not create an employment relationship, and is subject to Zero’s review, background checks, and regulatory compliance.
ELIGIBILITY
To register and operate as a Captain on Zero you must meet the following requirements at all times:
2.1 Driving Licence
You must hold a valid driver’s licence issued by the relevant state authority permitting you to drive for hire. Your licence must remain valid and in good standing at all times during your use of the Platform.
2.2 Background Check
You must consent to and pass a background check conducted by Zero’s authorised background verification provider. Zero receives a pass or fail result only. Before any adverse action is taken based on your background check Zero will:
You have the right to dispute any inaccurate information in your background check report directly with the background verification provider. These rights are governed by the Fair Credit Reporting Act (“FCRA”) and other applicable laws.
2.3 Driving Record
You must maintain a clean driving record as determined by Zero’s Motor Vehicle Record (“MVR”) verification process. Continuous MVR monitoring applies throughout your use of the Platform. Material violations on your driving record may result in deactivation.
2.4 Insurance
You must maintain at all times a valid commercial auto insurance policy covering rideshare operations and a rideshare endorsement on your personal auto insurance policy. Zero uses an insurance verification provider to verify your insurance coverage.
TNC insurance periods:
Zero’s contingent TNC policy applies across all three periods to the extent required by applicable state TNC regulations. Your primary insurance obligation is not replaced by Zero’s contingent policy.
Zero-arranged insurance or endorsement:
Where a Captain does not hold qualifying commercial auto insurance Zero may at its discretion arrange insurance coverage or an endorsement on your behalf. Under such arrangement:
- • Insurance-related charges platform coverage fees or endorsement costs may be deducted from the Captain’s earnings
- • Charges may be calculated on a per-mile per-trip percentage-based or other usage-based basis
- • Applicable rates and charges will be disclosed through the Zero app before trips are accepted
- • Such deductions will not reduce your earnings below the applicable minimum wage or earnings guarantee required by law
- • Zero reserves the right to modify insurance-related charges or coverage terms at any time with reasonable notice subject to applicable law
- • Participation in any Zero-arranged insurance or endorsement programme does not guarantee coverage for all incidents losses liabilities or claims
2.5 Vehicle Requirements
Your vehicle must comply with all applicable TNC regulations in the state where you operate. Your vehicle must at all times be properly registered, pass all required inspections, and be maintained in a safe and roadworthy condition.
2.6 Verification Costs
Background verification, insurance verification, and MVR verification costs are currently borne by the Captain. Zero reserves the right to assume all or part of these verification costs at its discretion in the future with reasonable notice.
2.7 Account Registration
You must provide truthful, current, and complete information during registration. You are responsible for maintaining account security. You may not create duplicate or fraudulent accounts. Zero reserves the right to suspend or terminate accounts for violations.
2.9 No Guarantee of Onboarding
Pre-registration is not an offer of engagement. Approval depends on background verification, market demand, and regulatory requirements. Zero reserves the right to accept or reject applications at its sole discretion subject to applicable laws.
2.8 Document and Information Submission
You may be required to submit:
Documents must be valid, unaltered, and clearly visible. Submission does not guarantee approval. Additional documentation may be requested.
INDEPENDENT CONTRACTOR RELATIONSHIP
3.1 You are an independent contractor. Nothing in these Terms creates an employment, agency, partnership, or joint venture relationship between you and Zero.
3.2 As an independent contractor you have full discretion over when you work, where you work, which trips you accept, and how you perform your work subject to these Terms. Zero does not control the manner or means by which you perform transportation services.
3.3 Zero does not guarantee any minimum number of trips, earnings, or hours.
3.4 You are solely responsible for all taxes applicable to your earnings. Zero will provide tax documents as required by applicable law.
3.5 California Proposition 22 compliance
Captains operating in California are app-based drivers as defined under California Proposition 22. Zero complies with all requirements of Proposition 22 including:
ZERO KEY
4.1 Upon successful registration Zero may issue you a unique Zero Key — a QR code that serves as your identity and referral credential on the Platform.
4.2 Your Zero Key is personal to you. You may not share, sell, or transfer your Zero Key to any other person.
4.3 Zero encourages Captains to maintain a single Zero Key per verified phone number. A single Zero Key accumulates referral points and earns a higher Captain status and rewards on the Platform.
4.4 Upon deactivation of your account your Zero Key will be deactivated. Pending rewards and revenue share earned through your Zero Key prior to deactivation will be addressed as part of your final earnings settlement. Changes to the Zero Key programme will not affect already earned but unpaid revenue share.
4.5 Revenue share
Zero may offer Captains a revenue share programme through which you earn a percentage of the platform fee generated by riders and drivers you refer to Zero through your Zero Key. Where such a programme is offered:
- • The applicable revenue share percentage rate and calculation method will be communicated through the Zero app
- • Revenue share is earned on completed and verified trips taken by your referrals
- • Revenue share payments will be made in accordance with Zero’s payout schedule
- • Zero will provide not less than 30 days written notice before any material change to the revenue share rate or calculation method
- • Changes will not apply retroactively to already earned but unpaid revenue share
4.6 Zero reserves the right to modify, suspend, discontinue, or terminate the Zero Key programme including its features, eligibility criteria, rewards structure, referral mechanics, or associated benefits at any time with reasonable notice to the extent permitted by applicable law.
4.7 Zero reserves the right to suspend, restrict, or permanently terminate your Zero Key, account access, rewards eligibility, or participation on the Platform if in Zero’s reasonable discretion you violate these Terms, engage in unsafe abusive discriminatory fraudulent or unlawful conduct, receive repeated safety complaints, manipulate referrals or platform systems, provide false information, fail to maintain required licences or insurance, or endanger riders drivers or the public.
4.8 Creation or use of multiple accounts, duplicate Zero Keys, fraudulent referrals, or attempts to manipulate the rewards system may result in suspension, forfeiture of rewards, or permanent deactivation.
EARNINGS AND CHARGES
5.1 Your earnings per trip are based on the agreed trip fare between you and the rider. Zero will communicate the earnings structure applicable to your trips through the app.
5.2 Platform Fees and Rider Charges
Zero collects applicable fees and charges from riders as determined by Zero from time to time. These may include:
The applicable charges will be displayed to riders in the Zero app at the time of booking. Zero reserves the right to introduce, modify, or remove any charges at any time with reasonable notice.
5.3 Where applicable Zero may deduct an insurance charge from your earnings as described in Section 2.4. Such deductions will not reduce your earnings below the applicable minimum wage or Proposition 22 earnings guarantee where applicable.
5.4 Earnings are paid out after each completed trip through Zero’s payment processing provider to your registered bank account. Payout timing may vary depending on your bank and payment provider.
5.5 You are responsible for maintaining accurate and valid bank account details on the Platform. Zero is not responsible for delays caused by incorrect bank account information.
5.6 In the event of account deactivation Zero will process your final earnings payment within a reasonable timeframe. Any disputed amounts will be addressed through Zero’s dispute resolution process.
5.7 You may access your complete earnings history through the Zero app at any time.
CONDUCT AND SAFETY
6.1 You must conduct yourself professionally and respectfully toward all riders and members of the public at all times.
6.2 Immediate Deactivation
The following conduct may result in immediate deactivation:
6.3 Warning and Temporary Deactivation
The following conduct may result in a formal warning followed by temporary deactivation and mandatory coaching before reactivation:
6.10 Non-Discrimination
Captains must not discriminate against any rider or prospective rider on the basis of race, colour, national origin, religion, gender, sexual orientation, disability, age, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. Violation of this section may result in immediate and permanent deactivation.
6.11 Goodwill: Captains are ambassadors of Zero. You are expected to be courteous, helpful, and professional at all times. Zero reserves the right to take action where Captain conduct is determined to negatively affect Zero’s reputation or the experience of riders on the Platform.
6.12 Coaching and Reactivation
In most cases of temporary deactivation Zero will require the Captain to complete a coaching, training, or mentorship programme before reactivation. Coaching may be delivered by a Zero support representative, an authorised training provider, or a Senior Captain designated by Zero as a mentor.
Reactivation is subject to Zero’s satisfaction that the Captain has completed the required coaching. Failure to complete required coaching within a reasonable timeframe may result in permanent deactivation.
INSURANCE AND LIABILITY
7.1 You are required to maintain valid commercial auto insurance with rideshare endorsement at all times or participate in an alternative insurance arrangement as described in Section 2.4. You must not go online on the Platform if your insurance is not active and valid.
7.2 Zero maintains a contingent TNC liability policy as required by applicable state TNC regulations. This policy is contingent only and does not replace your primary insurance obligation.
7.3 Accident Procedure: In the event of an accident during a trip you must ensure the safety of all parties, contact emergency services if required, notify Zero through the app or at support@zero-ride.com, cooperate with Zero’s insurance partners, and file a report with your own insurance provider.
7.4 Zero’s liability arising from your use of the Platform is limited to the extent required by applicable law and Zero’s contingent TNC policy. Nothing in these Terms limits Zero’s liability for personal injury or death caused by Zero’s own negligence or wilful misconduct.
7.5 Indemnification: You agree to indemnify and hold Zero harmless from any claims, losses, damages, or expenses arising from your conduct during trips or your use of the Platform.
DATA AND PRIVACY
Your use of the Platform is governed by the Zero Driver Privacy Policy, which is incorporated into these Terms by reference.
DEACTIVATION
9.1 Zero reserves the right to deactivate your Captain account — temporarily or permanently — for violation of these Terms or applicable law. Zero will exercise this right in good faith and in a manner proportionate to the conduct identified.
9.2 Conduct that may result in immediate permanent deactivation is set out in Section 6.2.
9.3 Conduct that may result in temporary deactivation followed by mandatory coaching and reactivation is set out in Section 6.3.
9.4 Upon temporary deactivation:
- • You will receive written notice of the reason for deactivation through the app
- • You will be informed of the coaching or training required for reactivation
- • Your Zero Key will be temporarily suspended
- • You may appeal by contacting support@zero-ride.com within 14 days
- • Zero will review appeals and provide a written decision within 10 business days
9.6 Zero reserves the right to permanently deactivate accounts where serious safety or legal violations are confirmed or where a Captain fails to meet reactivation requirements following temporary deactivation.
INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY
10.1 The Zero app, Zero Key, Zero logo, platform technology, and all related content are the intellectual property of Zero Rideshare Inc.
10.2 You are granted a limited, non-exclusive, non-transferable, revocable licence to use the Zero app solely for the purpose of providing transportation services through the Platform in accordance with these Terms.
10.3 You may not copy, modify, distribute, reverse engineer, or create derivative works from any Zero intellectual property without prior written consent from Zero.
DISPUTE RESOLUTION
11.1 Informal Resolution
Before initiating any formal dispute process you agree to contact Zero at support@zero-ride.com and attempt to resolve the dispute informally within 30 days of written notice.
11.2 Binding Arbitration
If informal resolution fails any dispute arising from or relating to these Terms or your use of the Platform shall be resolved by binding individual arbitration under the rules of the American Arbitration Association (“AAA”). The seat of arbitration shall be the State of California. The arbitrator’s award shall be final and binding. Arbitration shall be conducted by a neutral arbitrator. Each party shall bear its own costs unless the arbitrator determines otherwise. Both parties have the right to legal representation in arbitration.
11.3 Class Action Waiver
You waive your right to participate in any class action lawsuit or class-wide arbitration against Zero. All disputes must be brought on an individual basis only. This waiver is a material term of these Terms.
11.4 PAGA carve-out
Nothing in this arbitration agreement waives or limits any rights or claims you may have under the California Private Attorneys General Act (“PAGA”) to the extent prohibited by law.
11.5 Mutuality
This arbitration obligation applies equally to Zero. Zero agrees to arbitrate disputes with you on an individual basis under the same terms.
11.6 Exceptions
Either party may seek emergency injunctive relief from a court of competent jurisdiction to prevent irreparable harm pending arbitration.
LIMITATION OF LIABILITY
12.1 To the maximum extent permitted by applicable law Zero’s total liability to you for any claims arising from these Terms or your use of the Platform shall not exceed the greater of the total earnings paid to you by Zero in the 30 days immediately preceding the event giving rise to the claim or $500.
12.2 Zero is not liable for any indirect, incidental, special, consequential, or punitive damages arising from your use of the Platform.
12.3 Zero is not liable for any loss of earnings, loss of opportunity, or loss of data arising from Platform downtime, technical errors, or deactivation.
12.4 Nothing in these Terms limits Zero’s liability for personal injury or death caused by Zero’s own negligence or wilful misconduct or for any liability that cannot be limited under applicable law.
GOVERNING LAW
These Terms are governed by the laws of the State of California without regard to conflict of law provisions. Where Zero operates in other states the applicable TNC regulations and state laws of those states apply to the extent required by local law. Where applicable state law provides greater protections to Captains than these Terms those state law protections apply.
AMENDMENTS
Zero reserves the right to amend these Terms at any time. Captains will be notified of material changes through the Zero app or by email at least 14 days before the changes take effect. Continued use of the Platform after notification constitutes acceptance of the amended Terms.
SEVERABILITY
If any provision of these Terms is found to be invalid or unenforceable the remaining provisions shall continue in full force and effect. If the class action waiver is found unenforceable the arbitration agreement shall be void and disputes shall be resolved in court.
ENTIRE AGREEMENT
These Terms together with the Zero Driver Privacy Policy constitute the entire agreement between you and Zero regarding your use of the Platform as a Captain.
Zero Rideshare Inc.
440 N Hill Ave, Pasadena CA 91106 | EIN 33-2177527
Effective date: May 1, 2026