The Basic Requirements To Become An Uber Eats Driver
To drive for Uber Eats, you need to be at least 19 years old, have a valid driver's license, proof of insurance, and a vehicle registered in your name. Uber runs a background check on every applicant, which includes a driving record review going back seven years. If you have serious violations — DUIs, reckless driving, at-fault accidents, or multiple moving violations — you will likely be rejected.
You also need a smartphone with GPS, a data plan, and the Uber Eats app installed. The app runs constantly while you work, so a phone that drains battery quickly or loses signal often will make the job harder. Uber does not provide the phone or the plan; you pay for both.
Your vehicle must pass a vehicle inspection. Uber checks that your car is registered, insured, and roadworthy — no major dents, broken lights, or interior damage that makes it unsafe. The inspection happens through a third-party service, and you schedule it yourself at a location Uber directs you to. There is a fee for the inspection, usually between $15 and $30 depending on your state.
Key Takeaways
- You must be at least 19 years old with a valid driver's license, current insurance, and a vehicle registered in your name.
- Uber runs a seven-year background check that includes your driving record, and serious violations like DUIs or multiple at-fault accidents will disqualify you.
- Your vehicle must pass a third-party inspection that checks registration, insurance, and safety — you pay the inspection fee yourself.
- You need a smartphone with GPS and a data plan to run the Uber Eats app while delivering.
- The entire onboarding process typically takes one to two weeks after you submit your documents, though it can take longer if Uber requests additional information.
Documents You Will Need To Submit
Uber asks for your driver's license, proof of insurance, vehicle registration, and proof of residency. Proof of residency can be a utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days showing your name and address. You upload these documents through the Uber app during signup.
You will also need to provide your Social Security number for the background check. Uber uses a third-party screening company to verify your identity and pull your driving record. If you have ever been convicted of a felony, Uber's policy is to reject applicants with felonies on their record within the past seven years, though this varies slightly by state.
Keep copies of everything you submit. If Uber asks for clarification or says a document is unclear, you will need to resubmit quickly to avoid delays. The most common reason for rejection at this stage is a blurry photo of a license or an insurance card that has expired.
The Background Check And Driving Record Review
Uber pulls your driving record from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles. They look for serious violations: DUIs, reckless driving, driving with a suspended license, hit-and-run, and at-fault accidents. A single minor speeding ticket will not disqualify you, but multiple moving violations in a short period can.
The exact threshold varies by state because each state has different traffic laws and severity ratings. Uber publishes general guidelines but makes final decisions case by case. If you have a violation you are unsure about, you can contact Uber support before submitting your application to ask whether it will disqualify you.
The background check also screens for criminal history. Felonies within the past seven years are typically grounds for rejection. Misdemeanors are reviewed individually — a single old misdemeanor may not disqualify you, but multiple recent ones will.
Vehicle Requirements And The Inspection Process
Your vehicle must be at least 2000 model year or newer in most states, though some states allow older vehicles. It must have four doors, a trunk or cargo area, and working air conditioning and heating. The vehicle cannot be a salvage title, flood-damaged, or rebuilt after a total loss.
Once you pass the document review, Uber sends you a link to schedule a vehicle inspection. You choose a time and location from available slots in your area — usually at a third-party inspection center, not an Uber office. The inspection takes 15 to 30 minutes. The inspector checks that your registration and insurance match the vehicle, that all lights work, that there are no major dents or damage, and that the interior is clean and safe.
You pay the inspection fee upfront, typically $15 to $30. Some states or cities have higher fees. If your vehicle fails inspection, you can fix the issues and reschedule. Most failures are for things like a broken taillight or expired registration, which you can correct and reinspect within a few days.
Insurance Requirements
You must have active auto insurance in your name before you can drive for Uber Eats. Your personal auto insurance policy must cover commercial use, or you need a separate commercial rideshare insurance policy. Many personal policies exclude commercial delivery work, so check with your insurance company before you sign up.
Uber provides contingent liability coverage while you are actively delivering — meaning while you have a delivery assigned and are en route to pick it up or drop it off. This coverage does not replace your personal insurance; it fills gaps if your personal policy does not cover commercial use. You are responsible for having your own insurance active at all times.
If you do not have insurance or your policy does not cover commercial use, you will need to purchase a rideshare insurance add-on or a separate commercial policy. These typically cost $10 to $25 per month depending on your location and driving history.
Age, Identity, And Bank Account Requirements
You must be at least 19 years old. Uber verifies your age through your driver's license during the background check process. If you are under 19, you cannot proceed with signup.
You need a valid Social Security number to pass the identity verification. Uber uses this to run the background check and to report your earnings to the IRS. If you do not have a Social Security number, you cannot drive for Uber Eats.
You also need a bank account in your name to receive payments. Uber deposits your earnings weekly to the account you provide during signup. The account must be a U.S. bank account; some prepaid cards and international accounts are not accepted. You can change your bank account information anytime through the app.
Timeline From Signup To Your First Delivery
The entire process usually takes one to two weeks. On day one, you create your account and upload your documents. Within 24 to 48 hours, Uber reviews your documents and either approves them or asks for clarification. If approved, you schedule your vehicle inspection.
The inspection itself takes 15 to 30 minutes, but you may have to wait several days for an available appointment depending on demand in your area. After the inspection passes, Uber activates your account, usually within one business day. You can then log into the app and start receiving delivery requests.
If Uber requests additional documents or information, the timeline extends. For example, if your insurance card is unclear, you will need to resubmit a better photo, which adds two to three days. If your vehicle fails inspection, you fix the issue and reschedule, which can add a week.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if I have an accident or traffic ticket after I start driving?
Uber monitors your driving record periodically. Minor traffic tickets usually do not affect your account, but serious violations or multiple tickets can trigger a review. If Uber determines your record no longer meets their standards, they may deactivate your account. You can appeal the decision by contacting Uber support.
Can I drive for Uber Eats if I have a commercial driver's license?
Yes. A commercial driver's license is a valid driver's license and meets Uber's requirement. You do not need a special license to deliver for Uber Eats — a standard passenger vehicle license is sufficient.
What if my vehicle registration or insurance expires while I am driving?
Your registration and insurance must remain active at all times. If either expires, Uber will deactivate your account until you provide proof of renewal. You can reactivate by uploading updated documents through the app.
Do I need a commercial license plate or commercial registration?
No. A standard personal vehicle registration is acceptable. You do not need commercial plates or commercial registration to drive for Uber Eats, though some states offer commercial registration as an option if you prefer it.
Can I use a vehicle that is financed or leased?
Yes, as long as the vehicle is registered in your name and you have insurance in your name. If the vehicle is registered to someone else — a spouse, parent, or lender — you cannot use it. The registration must match the name on your Uber account.