Company Vehicle Personal-Use Fees Have Increased
More employers now charge workers to use company cars for personal errands and allow family members to drive them.
Updated on Oct. 3, 2026 in Trucks
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Should companies charge employees for the personal use of assigned company vehicles?
Recent survey data reveals that 79% of fleet managers now permit personal use of company vehicles, with many companies raising fees for these privileges. While a majority of employers allow employees to use trucks and cars for personal tasks, these benefits often come with specific costs and insurance-related requirements.
Why it matters
Changes in company vehicle policy can directly impact household transportation budgets and insurance liability. As more firms increase these personal-use fees, families must weigh the convenience of these work-provided vehicles against the added financial and record-keeping burdens.
Of 71 total survey respondents, 54% currently charge personal-use fees starting at $130 per month. Additionally, 42% of companies now authorize employee spouses to operate these vehicles, provided a motor vehicle record check is completed.
The players
Automotive Fleet
A trade publication that tracks fleet management trends and corporate vehicle policy data.
The details
Companies determine vehicle eligibility primarily based on job function, which 69% of surveyed fleets identify as their main criteria. Employers assessing fees often implement these charges as a flat monthly rate to cover the additional wear and insurance costs associated with personal miles. Before allowing a spouse or non-employee to drive, households should verify that their employer has performed the necessary motor vehicle record checks to remain compliant with corporate risk-management policies.
Timeline
In 2013, 87% of fleet managers permitted personal vehicle use.
During 2024, the rate of fleets allowing personal use sat at 72%.
Eleven companies increased their personal-use charges in 2025.
Automotive Fleet published findings from their 2026 survey on October 2, 2026.
The Home Front
The shift toward greater personal-use access represents a departure from the restrictive fleet management policies that defined the decade following 2013. This trend suggests that businesses are increasingly treating vehicle access as a flexible perk rather than a strictly commercial asset.
Check your employee handbook or fleet agreement to determine if you are subject to the $130 monthly fee threshold. If your spouse drives your work vehicle, ensure they are registered with your company's risk management department to meet the 87% industry standard for record checks.
The takeaway
Company vehicle policies are becoming more flexible, but they carry more administrative requirements for your household. Ensure your insurance coverage is verified and all non-employee drivers are cleared through your company's official record check process.
Further reading
For more on managing vehicle assets, browse the latest updates in our Trucks section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Automotive Fleet.
Live Poll
Should companies charge employees for the personal use of assigned company vehicles?
