What you need to start delivering for Uber Eats
To deliver for Uber Eats, you need to be at least 18 years old, have a valid driver's license, proof of insurance, and a vehicle registered in your name. You also need a Social Security number, a bank account for direct deposit, and a smartphone with the Uber Driver app installed. Uber runs a background check that includes your driving record and criminal history — the exact standards vary by location, but serious traffic violations or felonies typically disqualify you.
The vehicle itself can be a car, motorcycle, scooter, or bicycle, depending on what Uber Eats offers in your city. If you use a car or motorcycle, your insurance must be active and in your name. Uber does not provide insurance, so you are responsible for coverage. Some insurance companies offer rideshare or delivery add-ons; others require you to switch plans.
Key Takeaways
- You must be 18 or older with a valid driver's license, proof of insurance, and a vehicle registered in your name to start the account setup process.
- Uber runs a background check on your driving record and criminal history, and the results determine whether you can proceed.
- You need a smartphone, a bank account for direct deposit, and a Social Security number to complete your profile.
- The entire process from account creation to your first delivery typically takes one to two weeks, depending on how quickly you submit documents and Uber processes them.
Documents you must submit before your first delivery
Uber requires you to upload several documents through the Driver app before you can start accepting orders. You need a photo of your driver's license (front and back), a photo of your vehicle registration, and proof of insurance. You also need a profile photo of your face taken against a plain background — Uber uses this to verify your identity when you pick up orders.
If your vehicle registration or insurance is not in your name, you will need to add yourself as an authorized driver or owner on those documents. Uber will not accept a registration or insurance card in someone else's name alone. Some states also require a vehicle inspection or emissions test; Uber will tell you during signup if your state is one of them.
Keep copies of everything you submit. If Uber asks for clarification or a resubmission, you will have the originals on hand. The app shows you the status of each document — "pending review," "approved," or "needs resubmission" — so you know where you stand.
The background check and approval timeline
After you submit your documents, Uber sends them to a third-party background check company. This check looks at your driving record for the past seven years and your criminal history. Uber typically completes this within three to five business days, though it can take longer if there are delays or if they need you to clarify something.
If the background check comes back clear, Uber moves to the next step: vehicle inspection. In some cities, you can use a third-party inspection service (like a mechanic or car wash); in others, you must schedule an appointment at an Uber inspection center. The inspection checks that your vehicle is safe and meets Uber's standards — working lights, no major damage, clean interior. This step usually takes a few days to schedule and complete.
Once your vehicle passes inspection and your background check is approved, Uber activates your account. From the day you start the signup process to your first delivery, plan on one to two weeks. If any document is rejected or needs resubmission, add another week.
Setting up your bank account and payment method
Uber deposits your earnings directly into a bank account in your name. You must provide your routing number and account number during signup. The account can be checking or savings, but it must be a U.S. bank account. If you do not have a bank account, you will need to open one before you can finish your Uber Eats profile.
Uber typically deposits your earnings once per week, usually on Tuesday or Wednesday, depending on your location. The exact day is shown in the app. You can also cash out your balance instantly using Uber's "Instant Pay" feature, though this usually costs a small fee (typically $0.50 to $2.00 per transfer).
You will also need to add a payment method to your Uber Driver account — a debit or credit card. This is separate from your bank account and is used if you need to pay for vehicle maintenance, tolls, or other delivery-related expenses through the app.
Choosing your delivery method and vehicle type
During signup, Uber asks what you plan to use for deliveries: a car, motorcycle, scooter, or bicycle. Your choice determines what orders you can accept and how much you earn per delivery. Car deliveries typically pay more than bike deliveries because they cover larger distances and can carry more items. Scooter and bike deliveries are usually limited to shorter distances in urban areas.
If you do not own a vehicle, Uber does not provide one. You will need to purchase or lease your own. Some delivery drivers use car rental services or lease-to-own programs, though these add to your costs and reduce your net earnings. Bicycles and scooters are the lowest-cost entry point if they are available in your area.
You can change your vehicle type later, but you will need to submit new registration and insurance documents if you switch to a car or motorcycle. Switching from a car to a bike does not require new documents.
What happens after you are activated
Once your account is active, you can open the Uber Eats Driver app and toggle yourself "online" to start receiving delivery requests. You are not required to work set hours — you can go online whenever you want and go offline whenever you want. Uber sends you orders from restaurants and customers near your location, and you decide whether to accept each one.
You earn money per delivery, with the amount depending on distance, time, and demand in your area. Uber also shows you the estimated pickup and dropoff locations before you accept, so you can decide if the trip is worth your time. You keep 100% of customer tips, which are added to your Uber Eats payment.
Your account status is shown in the app at all times. If Uber deactivates your account for any reason — low ratings, policy violations, or a failed background check renewal — you will receive a notification explaining why and what steps you can take to appeal.
Common reasons accounts are rejected or deactivated
Uber denies accounts or deactivates them after approval for several reasons. A driving record with recent serious violations (DUI, reckless driving, multiple at-fault accidents) is the most common cause. Criminal convictions, especially felonies or crimes involving dishonesty or violence, also result in denial. Some misdemeanors may be acceptable depending on how recent they are and what state you are in.
After activation, accounts are deactivated most often for low ratings (typically below 4.6 stars), canceling too many orders, or violating Uber's community guidelines (theft, unsafe driving, harassment). If your account is deactivated, Uber provides a reason and sometimes a path to reactivation, such as completing a safety course or waiting a set period before reapplying.
Vehicle-related rejections happen when your car does not pass inspection, your insurance lapses, or your registration expires. These are usually fixable — renew your registration or insurance, schedule a new inspection, and resubmit.
Frequently Asked Questions
How old do I have to be to deliver for Uber Eats?
You must be at least 18 years old. Uber verifies your age through your driver's license during the signup process. If you are under 18, you cannot create an account.
Can I use someone else's car to deliver?
No. The vehicle must be registered in your name, and your insurance must cover you as the driver. If the car belongs to someone else, Uber will reject your account during document verification.
What if I have a minor traffic violation on my record?
Minor violations like speeding tickets usually do not disqualify you. Uber looks at the severity and recency of violations. Recent serious violations (DUI, reckless driving, at-fault accidents) are more likely to result in denial. The background check company will flag anything they find, and Uber makes the final decision.
How long does the background check take?
The background check typically takes three to five business days. Vehicle inspection can add another few days depending on availability in your area. The entire process from signup to activation usually takes one to two weeks.
Can I deliver with a motorcycle or scooter?
Yes, if Uber Eats offers that option in your city. Motorcycles and scooters are available in many urban areas. You still need a valid driver's license, insurance, and registration in your name. The insurance requirements are the same as for cars.