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, own or have regular access to a car that meets Uber's vehicle requirements, and pass a background check. Uber also requires proof of insurance, vehicle registration, and a valid Social Security number or tax ID. The exact requirements vary slightly by city — some places require additional permits or inspections — so you will need to check what your local jurisdiction demands before you start.

Your car must be at least four doors, have working seat belts and airbags, and pass a vehicle inspection. Uber accepts most sedans, SUVs, and hatchbacks made in 2011 or later, though the year cutoff changes by location and Uber updates it annually. If your car is older or has significant damage, you may not be able to use it. You can also rent a car through Uber's rental partners if you do not own one, though this costs money and reduces your earnings.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a valid driver's license, proof of insurance, vehicle registration, and a clean enough background check to pass Uber's screening.
  • Your car must be at least four doors, have working safety features, and usually be no more than 10 to 15 years old depending on your location.
  • The background check process takes one to two weeks, and Uber will tell you if you do not pass before you can start driving.
  • You set your own hours and can drive whenever you want, but you are responsible for gas, maintenance, insurance, and taxes on your earnings.
  • Some cities require additional permits or vehicle inspections beyond what Uber requires, so check your local rules before you begin the process.

Documents you will need to submit

Uber requires you to upload several documents through its app or website before you can start driving. You will need a photo of your driver's license, proof of vehicle insurance in your name, a photo of your vehicle registration, and proof of your Social Security number (usually a Social Security card, tax return, or W-2). Some states also require you to provide a copy of your vehicle's title or proof of ownership.

All documents must be clear, legible, and current. If your insurance or registration is expiring soon, Uber may ask you to renew them before approval. You can upload documents on your phone using the Uber Driver app, and Uber will review them within a few days. If anything is missing or unclear, Uber will send you a message asking you to resubmit.

The background check process

Uber uses a third-party company to run a background check on every driver. The check includes your driving history, criminal history, and sex offender registry status. Uber looks for serious felonies, violent crimes, and major traffic violations. A single speeding ticket or minor accident will not disqualify you, but a DUI, reckless driving conviction, or multiple at-fault accidents within the past seven years may.

The background check typically takes one to two weeks. Uber will notify you by email or through the app whether you passed or did not pass. If you do not pass, Uber will tell you why and may offer you a chance to dispute the findings if you believe there is an error. You cannot drive until the background check is complete and you have passed.

Vehicle inspection requirements

In most cities, you must pass a vehicle inspection before you can start driving. Some inspections are done by Uber-approved mechanics or inspection centers, while others are done by local government agencies. The inspection checks that your car has working brakes, lights, wipers, seat belts, and airbags, and that there is no major damage to the frame or interior.

If your car fails inspection, you will need to repair the issues and have it inspected again. Some cities do not require an inspection at all, so check Uber's requirements for your specific location. You can find inspection locations and book an appointment through the Uber Driver app.

How to submit your information to Uber

Download the Uber Driver app and create an account using your phone number and email address. You will be asked to enter your name, date of birth, and address. Then upload your driver's license photo, insurance proof, registration, and Social Security verification through the app. Uber will review each document and let you know if anything needs to be resubmitted.

Once all documents are approved, you will be assigned to a background check. While the check is running, you can complete your vehicle inspection if your city requires one. After the background check passes and the inspection is complete, Uber will activate your account and you can start accepting rides. The entire process from account creation to first ride usually takes two to four weeks.

What happens after you are approved

Once your account is active, you can open the Uber Driver app and toggle online whenever you want to accept rides. You set your own schedule — you can drive full-time, part-time, or just a few hours a week. Uber sends you ride requests in your area, and you choose whether to accept each one. Your earnings come from the fare Uber charges passengers, minus Uber's commission, which is typically 25 to 30 percent depending on your city.

You are responsible for all costs: gas, car maintenance, insurance, and vehicle repairs. You must also report your earnings to the IRS and pay self-employment taxes. Uber sends you a 1099-NEC form at the end of the year for tax purposes. Some drivers use accounting software or work with a tax professional to track expenses and deductions, which can lower the taxes you owe.

Local rules and permits that may apply

Some cities require Uber drivers to obtain a local permit or license in addition to Uber's requirements. Cities like New York, San Francisco, and Chicago have their own driver licensing systems with additional background checks, training, or fees. A few cities cap the number of Uber drivers allowed or require drivers to work for a specific company. Before you start the Uber process, search your city's name plus "Uber driver permit" or contact your local transportation department to find out what is required.

Some jurisdictions also require vehicle inspections by city inspectors rather than Uber-approved mechanics, or they set different age limits for cars. A handful of cities do not allow Uber to operate at all. Checking local rules first can save you time and money if your city has additional steps or restrictions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive for Uber if I have a bad driving record?

It depends on what is on your record. Minor speeding tickets or one accident will not disqualify you. However, a DUI, reckless driving conviction, or multiple at-fault accidents in the past seven years will likely result in rejection. Uber's exact standards vary by location, so you can contact Uber support to ask about your specific situation before you submit documents.

What if I do not own a car?

Uber offers car rental programs through partners like Hertz and Avis. You can rent a car weekly or monthly and use it to drive for Uber. The rental cost is deducted from your earnings, which significantly reduces your profit. Some drivers find this worthwhile if they are new to driving for Uber and want to test it out before buying a car.

How long does it take to get approved?

The entire process typically takes two to four weeks from the time you submit your first document. The background check is usually the longest step, taking one to two weeks. If you live in a city that requires a vehicle inspection, that can add another week. Uber will notify you when each step is complete.

Do I need a commercial driver's license?

No. A regular passenger driver's license is sufficient for Uber. You do not need a commercial license unless you are driving for a commercial trucking company or operating a taxi service in a city that requires it. Check your local rules to be sure, but most places do not require a commercial license for rideshare driving.

What if Uber rejects my background check?

Uber will tell you the reason for rejection. If you believe the information is wrong — for example, if the background check confused you with someone else — you can dispute it. Contact Uber support with documentation that proves the error. If the rejection is correct, you cannot drive for Uber, but you may be able to drive for other rideshare companies with different standards.