The Basic Requirements to Drive for Uber Eats
To drive for Uber Eats, you must be at least 19 years old, have a valid driver's license, and own or have access to a vehicle. Uber Eats accepts cars, motorcycles, scooters, and bicycles depending on your location. You will also need a Social Security number, proof of insurance, and a valid email address to complete the signup process.
Your driver's license must be current and issued by a U.S. state, territory, or Canadian province. The license cannot be expired or suspended. Uber Eats will verify your identity and run a background check before you can start accepting deliveries.
Key Takeaways
- You must be at least 19 years old with a valid, non-suspended driver's license and proof of vehicle insurance.
- Uber Eats accepts cars, motorcycles, scooters, and bicycles, though vehicle type availability depends on your city.
- A background check is required and typically takes three to five business days to complete.
- You will need to provide your Social Security number, vehicle registration, and proof of insurance during signup.
- Insurance requirements vary by state — some states require commercial coverage, while others allow personal auto insurance.
Vehicle Registration and Insurance
Your vehicle must be registered in your name or you must have written permission from the owner to use it for deliveries. You will need to upload a photo of your vehicle registration during signup. The registration cannot be expired.
Insurance is mandatory. Some states require commercial delivery insurance, while others allow standard personal auto insurance. Check your state's requirements before you start, because driving without the correct coverage can void your policy. Your insurance company may charge extra for delivery work, or they may not cover it at all under a personal policy. Uber Eats does not provide insurance for you.
Background Check and Approval Timeline
Uber Eats runs a background check on all new drivers. The check looks at your driving record, criminal history, and sex offender registry. You cannot have certain convictions, including felonies within the past seven years, DUIs within the past three years, or reckless driving convictions within the past three years. The exact rules vary by state.
The background check typically takes three to five business days. During this time, you cannot accept deliveries. Uber Eats will send you an email when the check is complete. If you are denied, you can contact Uber Eats support to ask why and whether you can reapply later.
Documents You Will Need to Upload
During signup, you will upload documents through the Uber Eats app. Have these ready before you start:
- A photo of your driver's license (front and back)
- A photo of your vehicle registration
- A photo of your proof of insurance
- A clear photo of your vehicle (taken from the front, driver's side, and back)
- A recent selfie for identity verification
Photos must be clear, well-lit, and show all required information. Blurry or incomplete photos will be rejected and you will have to resubmit. Make sure your documents are current — expired registration or insurance will delay approval.
Age and Driving Record Restrictions
You must be at least 19 years old. Some cities require drivers to be 21 or older, so check your local rules. Your driving record matters: Uber Eats will reject you if you have too many traffic violations, at-fault accidents, or serious moving violations in the past three to seven years depending on the violation type.
A single speeding ticket usually will not disqualify you, but multiple violations within a short time period can. If your application is denied because of your driving record, you may be able to reapply after a certain amount of time has passed. Uber Eats will tell you when you can try again.
Phone and Bank Account Requirements
You need a smartphone with the Uber Eats driver app installed. The app works on both iPhone and Android. Your phone must have a working GPS, camera, and reliable data connection to receive and complete delivery orders.
You will also need a bank account in your name to receive payments. Uber Eats deposits your earnings weekly, usually on Wednesday or Thursday depending on your bank. The account must be a checking or savings account at a U.S. bank. You cannot use a prepaid card or account in someone else's name.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive for Uber Eats if I have a suspended license?
No. Your driver's license must be valid and not suspended or revoked. If your license is currently suspended, you will need to resolve that with your state's DMV before you can sign up. Uber Eats checks your license status during the background check.
What if I don't own a car — can I use someone else's?
Yes, but you need written permission from the owner. During signup, you will declare whether the vehicle is registered in your name. If it is not, Uber Eats may ask for proof that you have permission to use it. The vehicle registration photo you upload should match the name of the person who gave you permission.
How long does it take to get approved after I submit my documents?
The background check takes three to five business days. Document review can take an additional one to three days if photos are unclear or information is missing. Once approved, you can start accepting deliveries immediately. If documents are rejected, you will have to resubmit and the timeline restarts.
Do I need commercial insurance or can I use my personal auto policy?
It depends on your state. Some states require commercial delivery insurance, while others allow personal auto insurance. Contact your insurance company before you sign up and tell them you will be doing delivery work. They will tell you whether your current policy covers it or whether you need to add coverage or switch to a commercial policy.
What happens if my background check is denied?
Uber Eats will send you an email explaining why. Common reasons include serious traffic violations, recent DUIs, or certain criminal convictions. You can contact Uber Eats support to ask for more details. Depending on the reason, you may be able to reapply after a set amount of time has passed.