What you need to become an Uber driver
To drive for Uber, you must meet several requirements before the company will activate your account. You need a valid driver's license, proof of vehicle registration, proof of insurance, and a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number. Uber also runs a background check that looks at your driving record and criminal history — the company has specific rules about what disqualifies you, which vary slightly by state and city.
Your vehicle must be at least 15 years old (in most markets; some cities require newer), pass a vehicle inspection, and have valid registration and insurance. The inspection is done by a third party that Uber directs you to, not by Uber itself. You pay for this inspection out of pocket — the cost typically ranges from $20 to $50 depending on your location.
You also need a smartphone with data service, a valid email address, and a bank account in your name to receive payments. Uber deposits your earnings weekly, usually on Tuesday or Wednesday, to the account you provide during setup.
Key Takeaways
- You must provide a valid driver's license, vehicle registration, proof of insurance, and Social Security number before Uber will review your account.
- Uber runs a background check that examines your driving record and criminal history; disqualifying factors vary by location.
- Your vehicle must pass a third-party inspection and meet age and insurance requirements; you pay for the inspection yourself.
- The entire process from submission to account activation typically takes one to two weeks, though it can be longer if documents are missing or incomplete.
Documents you must submit
Gather these documents before you start the signup process. You will need a photo of your valid driver's license (front and back), a photo of your vehicle registration, and proof of current auto insurance that covers commercial rideshare driving. Many personal auto insurance policies do not cover rideshare work — you may need to add a rideshare endorsement or switch to a policy that includes it. Check with your insurance company before you submit anything to Uber.
You will also need to provide your Social Security number or ITIN, your bank account number and routing number, and a valid email address. Some markets require a photo of your vehicle from multiple angles. Uber's app will tell you exactly what photos and documents are required in your city when you begin the signup flow.
Keep copies of everything you submit. If Uber requests clarification or additional documents, you will need to resubmit quickly — delays in responding can push back your activation date by weeks.
The background check and what disqualifies you
Uber uses a third-party company to run a background check that covers your driving record for the past seven years and your criminal history. The company looks for serious traffic violations (like reckless driving or DUI), major criminal convictions, and patterns of violations. A single speeding ticket will not disqualify you, but multiple violations or a recent major offense will.
Disqualifying factors include a DUI or DWI conviction within the past seven years, a felony conviction within the past seven years, a sex offense conviction at any point, and certain drug-related convictions. Some cities have additional rules — for example, some require that you have held your driver's license for at least one year before you can drive for Uber. Check your city's specific rules on Uber's website before you submit your documents.
If your background check comes back with issues, Uber will notify you and may give you a chance to dispute the findings. You can request a copy of your background report and correct errors if the information is wrong.
Vehicle inspection and insurance requirements
After you submit your documents, Uber will direct you to a third-party inspection facility in your area. You schedule an appointment, bring your vehicle, and a technician checks that the car is safe and roadworthy. The inspection looks at brakes, tires, lights, windshield condition, and overall mechanical safety. It does not check emissions or registration status — those are separate.
The inspection typically takes 30 minutes to an hour. You pay the inspection fee at the facility (usually $20 to $50). Once the inspection passes, the facility reports the result to Uber electronically. If your vehicle fails, you will need to fix the issues and schedule a reinspection.
Before you schedule the inspection, confirm that your auto insurance covers rideshare driving. Standard personal auto policies often exclude commercial use. Contact your insurance company and ask whether your current policy covers Uber driving, or whether you need to add a rideshare endorsement. Some insurers charge $10 to $20 per month for this coverage; others may require you to switch to a commercial or rideshare-specific policy. Do this before your inspection appointment — you will need proof of rideshare-compliant insurance to complete your signup.
Timeline from signup to your first ride
The process typically takes one to two weeks from the moment you submit your documents to the moment your account is activated. However, this timeline assumes all your documents are complete and correct the first time. If Uber requests additional information or clarification, or if your background check requires review, the process can stretch to three or four weeks.
Here is the typical sequence: you submit documents through the Uber app (1 to 2 days for Uber to receive and review them), Uber orders your background check (3 to 5 days for results), you schedule and complete your vehicle inspection (1 to 3 days depending on appointment availability), and Uber activates your account once all checks pass (1 to 2 days). If any step is delayed or incomplete, the entire timeline extends.
Once your account is activated, you can log into the Uber Driver app and start accepting rides immediately. You do not need to wait for a physical card or any other material — everything happens in the app.
What happens if your application is denied
If Uber denies your application, the company will send you a notification through the app or email explaining the reason. Common reasons include a disqualifying item on your background check, a vehicle that failed inspection, missing or incomplete documents, or an issue with your insurance.
If the reason is something you can fix — like a failed vehicle inspection or missing insurance documentation — you can resubmit once the problem is resolved. If the reason is a background check issue, you have the right to request a copy of your report and dispute any errors. If the information is correct and disqualifying, you will not be able to drive for Uber in that market, though you may be able to reapply after a certain period (usually one to two years, depending on the disqualifying factor).
If you believe Uber made an error, you can contact Uber support through the app to request a review. Response times vary, but Uber typically responds within one to two weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a commercial driver's license to drive for Uber?
No. A standard personal driver's license is sufficient in all states. You do not need a commercial license, taxi license, or any special endorsement on your license. However, your auto insurance must cover rideshare driving — that is separate from your license type.
What if I have an accident or traffic ticket after I start driving?
You should report accidents to Uber through the app and to your insurance company immediately. Traffic tickets and minor accidents do not automatically deactivate your account, but Uber monitors your driving record. Multiple violations or serious incidents can result in deactivation. Uber reviews your record periodically, so new violations may affect your account status over time.
Can I use a vehicle that is financed or leased?
Yes, as long as you have the registration in your name and proof of insurance. If the vehicle is financed, the lender's name will appear on the registration — that is fine. If the vehicle is leased, check your lease agreement first; some leasing companies prohibit commercial use like rideshare driving. Contact the leasing company before you submit your documents to Uber.
How long does the background check take?
Most background checks return results within three to five business days. In some cases, if the report requires manual review or if there are discrepancies, it can take up to two weeks. Uber will notify you once the check is complete.
What if I do not have a Social Security number?
You can use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. You will need to provide this during signup. If you do not have either, you will not be able to drive for Uber, as the company requires one for tax reporting and payment purposes.