The Colorado Public Utilities Commission announced new safety rules for rideshare services that took effect September 30, aimed at preventing unauthorized drivers from operating under other people's accounts.
The rules represent the first phase of the commission's rideshare safety work. The PUC plans to introduce draft rules early next year to implement measures passed in the 2026 legislative session, including more frequent background checks for drivers and facial recognition requirements.
Alongside the regulations, the PUC launched an education campaign advising passengers to verify three details before each trip: the vehicle license plate, the vehicle's make and model, and the driver's name and photo. If anything appears suspicious, riders should not enter the vehicle and should report the issue immediately, the commission said.
Passengers are also advised to share their trip status with a trusted friend and call 911 if their safety is threatened.
Colorado currently has eight licensed rideshare operators and more than 35,000 licensed drivers. The industry provided approximately 37 million rides in 2025.