What you need to do to drive for Uber
Driving for Uber requires you to meet Uber's baseline requirements, pass a background check, and provide documents that prove your identity and driving history. You do this through Uber's driver sign-up process on their website or app, not through a government agency. Uber reviews your application and decides whether to approve you — this is a private company decision, not a public benefit.
The process typically takes one to two weeks from the time you submit your documents until you receive approval or denial. During that time, Uber's system verifies your information against third-party databases. If you are approved, you can begin accepting rides immediately.
Key Takeaways
- You must be at least 18 years old, have a valid driver's license, and own or have regular access to a vehicle that meets Uber's age and condition standards.
- Uber requires a background check that looks at your driving record and criminal history; specific disqualifying offenses vary by state and are listed on Uber's website.
- You will need to provide your Social Security number, proof of insurance, vehicle registration, and a valid photo ID during sign-up.
- Uber does not pay you a salary; you earn money per ride based on distance and time, minus Uber's commission and any applicable tolls or fees.
- You are responsible for your own vehicle maintenance, gas, insurance, and taxes — Uber does not withhold taxes or provide benefits like health insurance.
Documents and information Uber requires
Before you can drive, Uber needs to verify who you are and confirm you are legally allowed to drive. You will need to upload or provide the following through the Uber app or website:
- A valid driver's license (from any U.S. state or territory)
- Proof of vehicle insurance that covers rideshare driving
- Vehicle registration documents
- Your Social Security number
- A photo ID that matches your name (passport, state ID, or driver's license)
- Proof of vehicle inspection (some states require this; Uber will tell you if yours does)
Your vehicle must be at least 15 years old or newer, depending on your city — Uber's requirements vary by location. The car must be in good working condition with no major damage, and you will need to pass a vehicle inspection if your state or city requires one. Uber uses third-party companies to run background checks on your driving record and criminal history; you do not pay for this check, but Uber does.
Background check and approval timeline
Uber contracts with third-party background check companies to review your driving record and criminal history. The check typically takes three to five business days, though it can take longer if there are delays in records retrieval. Uber will notify you by email or through the app whether you have been approved or denied.
If you are denied, Uber provides a reason — usually a disqualifying offense, a serious traffic violation, or a gap in your driving history that cannot be verified. Some denials can be appealed if you believe the information is incorrect. Uber's website lists the specific offenses that disqualify drivers in your state; these vary because state law varies.
Once approved, you can turn on the app and begin accepting rides. You do not need to wait for a physical document or card to arrive — approval in the app means you are ready to drive.
How you earn money and what Uber takes
Uber calculates your earnings based on the distance and time of each ride. The fare is set by Uber's algorithm, which changes based on demand in your area. After each ride, Uber deducts its commission (typically 25 to 30 percent of the fare), any tolls you paid, and any service fees. The remainder goes to you.
You see the estimated earnings before you accept a ride, though the final amount may differ slightly. Uber pays you weekly to a bank account you link during sign-up. You can view your earnings history in the app at any time. Uber does not withhold taxes from your payments — you are responsible for paying self-employment tax when you file your annual tax return.
Your actual take-home income depends on how many hours you drive, the demand in your area, and your vehicle's fuel and maintenance costs. Drivers in busy urban areas typically earn more per hour than drivers in rural areas. Surge pricing (higher fares during peak demand) can increase your earnings significantly during certain times of day.
Insurance and liability you need to understand
Your personal auto insurance policy likely does not cover rideshare driving. You must purchase rideshare insurance or a commercial auto policy before you drive for Uber. This is a legal requirement in most states and a requirement of Uber's terms of service.
Rideshare insurance is cheaper than commercial auto insurance but more expensive than personal auto insurance. Costs vary by state and insurer, typically ranging from $10 to $30 per week. Some insurance companies offer policies that cover you only when you are actively driving for Uber; others cover you anytime the app is on. You will need to show proof of this insurance during sign-up.
Uber also provides contingent liability coverage when you are actively on a ride, but this is a secondary layer — your personal rideshare insurance is the primary coverage. If you are in an accident while driving for Uber, you must report it to both your insurance company and Uber immediately.
Vehicle requirements and inspection
Your vehicle must meet Uber's standards for safety and condition. The car must be at least 15 years old (in most cities; some cities allow older vehicles, and a few require newer ones). It must have four doors, a valid registration, and pass a vehicle inspection if your state or city requires one.
The vehicle cannot have major damage — dents, broken windows, or interior tears that affect passenger safety will cause you to fail inspection. Uber uses third-party inspection services in some areas; in others, you can take a photo of your vehicle through the app and Uber's team reviews it remotely. If your vehicle fails inspection, you can resubmit photos or schedule a new inspection after you make repairs.
You are responsible for all maintenance and repairs. Uber does not provide vehicle maintenance or pay for repairs. If your vehicle breaks down, you cannot drive until it is fixed.
Taxes and expenses you are responsible for
As an Uber driver, you are self-employed. This means Uber does not withhold income tax, Social Security tax, or Medicare tax from your payments. You must pay these taxes yourself when you file your annual tax return.
You can deduct certain business expenses from your income to reduce your tax liability. Common deductions include vehicle depreciation, fuel, maintenance and repairs, insurance, tolls, and phone service. Keep records of all expenses — receipts, mileage logs, and maintenance invoices. The IRS allows you to deduct either your actual expenses or a standard mileage rate, which changes each year.
Uber sends you a Form 1099-NEC at the end of the year showing your total earnings. This form is also sent to the IRS. You must report this income on your tax return even if you do not receive a 1099. If you earn less than $400 in a year, you do not owe self-employment tax, but you still must report the income.
What happens if Uber deactivates your account
Uber can deactivate your driver account if you violate their terms of service. Common reasons include a low rating from passengers (typically below 4.6 stars), canceling too many rides, driving under the influence, or being involved in an accident. Uber notifies you by email if your account is deactivated and usually provides a reason.
Some deactivations are permanent; others are temporary. If you believe the deactivation is a mistake, you can appeal through Uber's support system. The appeal process varies in length — it can take days or weeks. During deactivation, you cannot accept rides or earn money through Uber.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get approved as an Uber driver?
The entire process typically takes one to two weeks from the time you submit your documents. The background check usually takes three to five business days. If Uber needs additional information or clarification, approval may take longer.
Can I drive for Uber if I have a criminal record?
It depends on the offense and how long ago it occurred. Uber's disqualifying offenses vary by state, but generally include violent crimes, sexual offenses, and serious drug convictions. Some offenses have a lookback period — for example, a DUI from 10 years ago may not disqualify you, but one from 3 years ago might. Check Uber's website for your state's specific rules.
What if my vehicle is too old or doesn't meet Uber's standards?
You will not be approved to drive until your vehicle meets Uber's requirements. If your car is too old, you will need to purchase or lease a different vehicle. If your car fails inspection due to damage or maintenance issues, you can fix the problems and resubmit for inspection.
Do I get paid if a passenger cancels the ride?
Uber's cancellation policy varies by city. In most places, if a passenger cancels after you have arrived at their pickup location, you receive a small cancellation fee (typically $3 to $5). If they cancel before you arrive, you receive nothing. The app shows you the cancellation policy for your area.
Can I drive for Uber and Lyft at the same time?
Yes. Both companies allow drivers to work for multiple rideshare services simultaneously. You will need to sign up for each service separately and meet each company's requirements. Many drivers use multiple apps to increase their earning opportunities.