United States · 6 min read
Carpooling in the USA: HOV lanes, gas money and road trips
Find carpools across the US: commuting with HOV lanes, splitting gas money fairly, insurance basics, and popular routes like NYC–Boston and LA–San Diego.
By the LinqRoad team · Updated
Commuting with HOV lanes
Many US metro areas, including Los Angeles, the Bay Area, Seattle, Washington, D.C., Houston and Atlanta, have HOV (high-occupancy vehicle) lanes. Most need 2 or more people in the vehicle, and some need 3 or more. Hours vary, and some express lanes charge a toll or need a transponder even for carpools, so check the signs for your route.
A regular carpool partner can save you time in traffic as well as money.
Gas money and insurance
Splitting gas and tolls for a trip you're making anyway is standard carpooling. If a driver charges more than their costs, the trip can look like a commercial ride, which usually isn't covered by a personal auto policy and may need licensing depending on the state. When in doubt, ask your insurer.
Road trips worth sharing
- Northeast: New York–Boston, New York–Philadelphia, New York–Washington, D.C.
- California: Los Angeles–San Diego, San Francisco–Los Angeles, San Francisco–Lake Tahoe
- West: Los Angeles–Las Vegas, Seattle–Portland
- Texas Triangle: Dallas–Houston, Austin–San Antonio, Houston–Austin
- Southeast: Atlanta–Nashville, Miami–Orlando
Frequently asked questions
Does my car insurance cover carpool passengers?
Personal auto policies generally cover passengers on a cost-sharing carpool, but charging for profit may not be covered. Check your own policy or ask your insurer.
How many people count as a carpool for HOV lanes?
Usually 2 or more, including the driver; some lanes need 3 or more. Hours and rules vary by road, so follow the posted signs.
Ready to share a ride?