What you need to drive for Uber
To drive for Uber, you must be at least 18 years old, have a valid driver's license, and own or have regular access to a car that meets Uber's vehicle requirements. Uber also requires you to pass a background check and have proof of car insurance. The specific vehicle rules vary by location — some cities allow older cars, while others require vehicles from a certain year forward. You'll also need a smartphone with a data plan to use the Uber Driver app.
Beyond the basics, Uber requires a Social Security Number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) for tax purposes, and a valid email address. If you're leasing a car, you'll need written permission from the leasing company to use it for rideshare work. Some insurance policies don't cover commercial driving, so you may need to add a rideshare endorsement to your existing policy or purchase a separate commercial policy.
Key Takeaways
- You need a valid driver's license, proof of insurance, a may have access to vehicle, and a smartphone to start the Uber Driver process process.
- Uber runs a background check that typically takes several days to a few weeks, and a failed check will prevent you from driving.
- Your car must meet Uber's age and condition standards, which differ by city and by service type (UberX, Uber Eats, etc.).
- You are responsible for your own vehicle maintenance, fuel, and insurance — Uber does not cover these costs.
- Your earnings come directly to your bank account after Uber deducts its commission, usually within a few business days of each week.
Vehicle requirements and inspection
Your car must pass Uber's vehicle inspection before you can start accepting rides. The inspection checks that your car has four doors, a valid registration, working lights and brakes, no major damage, and a clean interior. You'll schedule the inspection through the Uber Driver app at a location Uber designates in your area — usually a partner inspection center or a mobile inspection site.
Vehicle age limits vary by city. In many places, cars must be 2010 or newer for UberX (standard rides), but some cities allow older vehicles. Uber Eats delivery typically has less strict vehicle requirements than passenger rides. You can check your city's specific rules in the Uber Driver app before you start the process. If your car fails inspection, Uber will tell you what needs to be fixed, and you can resubmit after repairs.
Background check and approval timeline
After you submit your information through the Uber Driver app, Uber runs a background check that looks at your driving record and criminal history. The check typically takes three to seven business days, though it can take longer depending on your location and the completeness of your process. Uber will notify you by email or through the app once the check is complete.
A background check can result in denial if you have serious traffic violations, a recent DUI, or certain criminal convictions. Uber's standards vary by location, so what disqualifies you in one city may not in another. If you're denied, Uber provides a reason and information about how to appeal. Even after approval, Uber periodically re-checks driver records, so violations that occur after you start driving can end your account.
Insurance and liability coverage
Your personal auto insurance typically does not cover you while you're driving for Uber. You have three options: add a rideshare endorsement to your existing policy, purchase a separate commercial rideshare policy, or rely on Uber's insurance. Uber provides limited liability coverage when you're actively transporting a passenger, but this coverage has gaps — it does not cover damage to your own vehicle, and it only applies when you have a passenger in the car.
Most insurance companies offer rideshare endorsements that cost between $10 and $30 per month and fill the gaps in Uber's coverage. This is the most common choice among drivers. Before you start driving, contact your insurance company to understand what is and isn't covered under your current policy. Driving without proper coverage can result in your claim being denied if you're in an accident, leaving you personally liable for all costs.
How to set up your driver account
Start by downloading the Uber Driver app and tapping "Sign up to drive." You'll enter your email address, phone number, and password. Uber will send you a verification code via text or email. Next, you'll provide your legal name, date of birth, and address. You'll upload a photo of yourself and photos of your driver's license (front and back).
Then you'll add your vehicle information: the year, make, model, and license plate number. You'll upload a photo of your vehicle registration and proof of insurance. Uber will verify this information against state records. Once Uber confirms your documents, you'll schedule your vehicle inspection. After your car passes inspection and your background check clears, you'll link a bank account for deposits and agree to Uber's terms. You can then turn on the app and start receiving ride requests.
Earnings, taxes, and payment
Uber deposits your earnings into your linked bank account once per week, usually on Wednesday or Thursday. The amount you receive is your total fares minus Uber's commission, which is typically 25 to 30 percent of each ride, though the exact percentage varies by city and service type. You also keep tips that passengers add through the app or give you in cash.
You are responsible for paying your own taxes on your Uber income. Uber does not withhold taxes from your deposits. At the end of each year, Uber sends you a 1099-NEC form showing your total earnings. You'll report this income on your tax return and pay self-employment tax, which covers both the employee and employer portions of Social Security and Medicare taxes. Many drivers set aside 25 to 30 percent of their earnings to cover taxes and vehicle expenses like gas, maintenance, and insurance.
What happens after you're approved
Once you're approved, you can open the Uber Driver app and toggle the "Go Online" button to start receiving ride requests. Riders in your area will see your car on their map, and you'll get a notification when someone requests a ride. You can accept or decline each request — there's no penalty for declining, though accepting most requests helps your rating. You'll pick up the passenger at the location they set, drive them to their destination, and they'll rate you after the ride ends.
Your driver rating appears in your app and is based on passenger feedback. Ratings below 4.6 stars (the threshold varies by city) can result in your account being deactivated. You can drive as much or as little as you want — there are no minimum hours or shift requirements. However, you can only drive during hours when Uber operates in your city, which is typically 24 hours a day in major cities but may be limited in smaller areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a commercial driver's license to drive for Uber?
No. A standard driver's license is sufficient for UberX and most Uber services. Some cities may have local requirements, so check with your city's transportation department if you're unsure. A commercial license is not required by Uber itself.
What if I don't own a car?
Uber has partnerships with car rental companies in some cities that allow you to rent a vehicle specifically for Uber driving. These rentals are typically more expensive than standard car rentals because they're designed for rideshare work. Alternatively, you can use a car you lease or borrow, as long as you have permission from the owner and the vehicle meets Uber's requirements.
Can I drive for Uber if I have a bad driving record?
It depends on what's on your record. Minor traffic violations usually don't disqualify you, but serious violations like DUI, reckless driving, or multiple at-fault accidents within the past three to seven years may. Uber's standards vary by location. You can contact Uber support to ask about your specific situation before you explore.
How much can I earn driving for Uber?
Earnings vary widely based on your city, the time of day you drive, demand, and how many rides you accept. Uber doesn't publish average earnings, and rates change frequently. You can see the base fare and per-mile rates for your city in the Uber Driver app before you start driving.
What if my car doesn't pass inspection?
Uber will tell you which items failed and what needs to be fixed. Common failures include broken lights, worn tires, or interior damage. You can get repairs done and resubmit your car for inspection at no additional cost. You won't be able to drive until your car passes.