Requirements to drive for Uber

To drive for Uber, you must meet a set of baseline requirements that Uber checks before you can start accepting rides. These include being at least 18 years old, having a valid driver's license, proof of insurance, and a vehicle that meets Uber's standards. You also need a Social Security number or tax ID, a valid phone number, and a bank account for deposits.

Uber runs a background check on every applicant, which includes a review of your driving record and criminal history. The company looks for serious violations like DUIs, reckless driving, or major criminal convictions within a set timeframe. The exact rules vary by state and city — some jurisdictions have stricter rules than others, and Uber sometimes applies those local rules even when its own policy would be more lenient.

You will also need to pass a vehicle inspection. Uber requires that your car be no more than a certain age (usually 15 years old for UberX, newer for Uber Black), have valid registration and inspection stickers, and pass a safety check. The inspection can happen at an Uber hub, a partner location, or through a third-party service depending on where you live.

Key Takeaways

  • You must be at least 18, have a valid driver's license, proof of insurance, and a vehicle that passes Uber's inspection before you can start driving.
  • Uber runs a background check that includes your driving record and criminal history; serious violations like DUIs or major crimes within recent years will likely disqualify you.
  • Your vehicle must usually be no more than 15 years old for standard UberX service, with current registration, inspection, and proof of insurance.
  • The exact rules for what disqualifies you vary by state and city, so what blocks you in one place might not in another.
  • You need a Social Security number or tax ID, a valid phone number, and a bank account to receive payments.

Driver's license and insurance requirements

Your driver's license must be valid and issued by a U.S. state or territory. Uber will not accept an international license, even if you are in the country legally. The license must match the name and date of birth you provide during signup.

Insurance is mandatory. You must carry commercial rideshare insurance or a personal auto policy that covers rideshare driving. Standard personal auto insurance often does not cover you while you are driving for a service like Uber, so check your policy before you start. Many insurance companies offer rideshare coverage as an add-on, and some rideshare companies offer their own policies. Uber provides some coverage during active trips, but it does not replace your own insurance requirement.

Vehicle age, condition, and inspection

Your vehicle must pass Uber's inspection standards. For UberX (the standard service), most vehicles must be 15 years old or newer, though this varies slightly by city. Luxury services like Uber Black have stricter age limits — usually 10 years or newer. The inspection checks that your car has working lights, brakes, wipers, and seat belts; no major dents or damage; a clean interior; and a valid registration and inspection sticker.

You can schedule an inspection at an Uber hub, a partner inspection location, or sometimes through a mobile inspection service. The process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. If your vehicle fails, Uber will tell you what needs to be fixed. You can resubmit for inspection once repairs are complete.

Background check and driving record

Uber uses a third-party background check company to review your history. The check looks at your driving record for the past three to seven years (depending on your state) and your criminal history. Uber will reject you if you have certain convictions — including felonies, violent crimes, sexual offenses, or drug-related convictions — though the exact timeframe varies by state and sometimes by city.

For driving violations, Uber has a points system. Minor infractions like speeding tickets may not disqualify you, but multiple violations or serious ones like DUIs, reckless driving, or driving with a suspended license usually will. If you have been denied, you can contact Uber's support team to ask what specifically disqualified you, though they do not always provide detailed explanations.

Age and identification documents

You must be at least 18 years old. Uber will verify your age through your driver's license and may ask for additional documents like a passport or state ID. You will also need to provide your Social Security number or Individual Tax Identification Number (ITIN) for tax reporting purposes.

All documents you submit must match the name and date of birth you use to create your account. If there are discrepancies, Uber will ask you to resubmit or clarify before you can proceed. This verification step can take a few days to a week.

Phone number and bank account

You need a valid phone number that you can access regularly, since Uber uses it to contact you about rides and account issues. The phone number must be able to receive text messages and calls. You will also need a bank account in your name to receive payments. Uber deposits earnings directly to your account, usually on a weekly or daily basis depending on your location and settings.

The bank account must be a U.S. account. If you do not have one, you will need to open one before you can start driving. Some banks offer accounts specifically for gig workers, though any standard checking account will work.

What happens if you do not meet the requirements

If you are denied, Uber will send you a message explaining that you do not meet the requirements, though the explanation is often brief. You can contact Uber support to ask for more detail, but the company does not always provide specifics about what disqualified you. If the issue is something that can be fixed — like an expired inspection sticker or a vehicle that is too old — you can reapply once the problem is resolved.

If the denial is based on your background check or driving record, you have fewer options. You cannot change your past, but you can ask Uber to review the decision if you believe there was an error in the background check itself. Some cities and states have rules that limit how far back Uber can look at your record, so the rules may differ depending on where you want to drive.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive for Uber with a suspended or revoked license?

No. Your license must be valid and in good standing. A suspended or revoked license will disqualify you, and Uber will not approve your account. You must wait until your license is reinstated and then reapply.

What if I have a DUI on my record?

A DUI usually disqualifies you. Uber's policy typically looks back seven years, though some states have different rules. If your DUI is older than that, you may be able to drive in that state. Contact Uber support to ask about your specific situation, as the rules vary by location.

Do I need commercial insurance or can I use my personal policy?

Your personal auto insurance likely does not cover rideshare driving. You need either a commercial rideshare policy or a personal policy with a rideshare endorsement. Check with your insurance company before you start driving — driving without proper coverage could leave you unprotected if there is an accident.

How long does the approval process take?

The approval process usually takes three to five business days once you have submitted all documents and passed your vehicle inspection. Background checks can take longer if there are issues that need review. You will receive a notification when your account is approved.

Can I appeal if I am denied?

You can contact Uber support to ask for a review if you believe there was an error. However, Uber does not have a formal appeals process. If the denial is based on a background check issue, you may be able to dispute the information with the background check company directly, and then ask Uber to review again.