PUC gives Uber 2-year Pennsylvania license — except Philly

HARRISBURG, Pa. (AP) — The state Public Utility Commission has given ride-sharing service Uber a two-year experimental license to operate anywhere in the state except Philadelphia, where it has been operating despite a local ban.

The company connects passengers with drivers — who use their own vehicles — through smartphone apps. Under the license approved Thursday, Uber drivers must agree in writing that they will report ride-sharing activities to their own insurance companies.

Questions about whose insurance would cover accidents have been among several dogging the non-traditional ride service.

An experimental license was granted because Uber’s service doesn’t fit neatly within regulations designed to govern taxis, buses and other forms of public transportation.

State lawmakers are considering legislation to specifically regulate ride-sharing companies, but unless that passes, they’ll be required to obtain experimental licenses.