What Uber Asks For Before You Can Drive

Uber requires you to submit documents and pass background checks before you can accept rides. You cannot start driving the day you apply — the process typically takes one to two weeks, though it can stretch longer if documents are missing or if Uber needs clarification on your background.

The core requirements are: a valid driver's license, proof of vehicle registration and insurance, a Social Security number, and a clean driving record. Uber also runs a criminal background check through a third-party company. If you have certain convictions or moving violations within the past seven years, you may be rejected.

You will need to provide documents in digital form through the Uber app or website. Blurry photos, expired documents, or mismatched names between your license and registration will cause delays — Uber will ask you to resubmit.

Key Takeaways

  • You must have a valid driver's license, current vehicle registration, and proof of insurance before Uber will review your application.
  • Uber runs a background check that looks at driving violations and criminal history from the past seven years.
  • The review process takes one to two weeks on average, but missing or unclear documents can add weeks to the timeline.
  • Your vehicle must meet Uber's age and condition standards, which vary by city and by whether you drive UberX, Uber Eats, or another service type.

Documents You Need to Gather

Before you open the Uber app, collect these items in digital form — photos or scans work, but they must be clear and show the full document:

  • A valid driver's license (front and back)
  • Vehicle registration (current and in your name)
  • Proof of insurance that covers commercial rideshare (standard personal auto insurance often does not)
  • A Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number
  • Your vehicle's VIN (Vehicle Identification Number), which appears on the registration and on the driver's side of the windshield

If your vehicle registration or insurance is in someone else's name, Uber will reject your application. You must be the registered owner or have written permission from the owner on file with Uber.

Your insurance is critical. Many personal auto policies exclude commercial use. Before you apply, call your insurance company and ask whether your policy covers rideshare driving. If it does not, you will need to add a rideshare endorsement or switch to a policy that includes it. This step often takes a few days and costs extra per month.

Vehicle Requirements by City and Service Type

Uber's vehicle standards depend on where you live and which service you want to drive. UberX (standard rides) has different rules than Uber Eats (food delivery) or Uber Comfort (premium rides).

For UberX in most cities, your vehicle must be at least four doors, have working seat belts and airbags, and pass a vehicle inspection. The maximum age varies — some cities allow vehicles up to 15 years old, others require vehicles from the past 10 years. Uber checks your vehicle's history through its VIN; if the car has been in a major accident or has a salvage title, you will be rejected.

Uber Eats has looser rules — motorcycles, scooters, and bicycles are allowed in some cities, and there is no vehicle age limit. UberX Comfort requires a newer vehicle (usually within the past five years) and seats at least five passengers.

Check Uber's website for your specific city before you apply. The requirements are listed under the "Become a Driver" section, and they change by location.

The Background Check Process

Uber uses a third-party background check company (usually Checkr or similar) to review your driving history and criminal record. The check looks back seven years for most violations and longer for certain felonies.

Uber will reject you if you have:

  • A DUI or DWI conviction within the past seven years
  • More than three moving violations (speeding, running a red light, reckless driving) in the past three years
  • A suspended or revoked license at any point in the past seven years
  • Certain felony convictions, including violent crimes, sexual offenses, or drug trafficking
  • A hit-and-run or driving with a suspended license conviction

If you have a record that concerns you, you can contact Uber's support team before you apply and ask whether you will be rejected. This does not may provide approval, but it can save you time if the answer is no.

How to Submit Your Application Through the App

Open the Uber app and tap "Account" at the bottom right. Select "Become a Driver" or "Sign Up to Drive." You will be asked to enter your phone number and create a password if you do not already have an Uber account.

Next, Uber will ask you to choose your service type (UberX, Uber Eats, etc.) and your city. Then you will upload your documents: driver's license, vehicle registration, proof of insurance, and a photo of your vehicle (exterior and interior).

Take clear photos in good lighting. Blurry images, glare on the license, or documents that are cut off at the edges will be rejected, and Uber will ask you to resubmit. This can add a week to your timeline.

After you submit, Uber will send you an email confirming receipt. You will not hear anything else for several days while the background check runs. Once the check is complete, Uber will either approve you or send you a rejection letter explaining why.

What Happens After Approval

If Uber approves you, you will receive an email and a notification in the app. At that point, you can turn on the driver toggle in the app and start accepting rides.

Before your first ride, Uber requires you to complete a brief orientation video (usually 10 to 15 minutes) that covers safety, passenger communication, and how to use the app's features. You must watch this before you go online.

Your first few rides may be monitored more closely — Uber tracks your ratings and cancellation rate. If you cancel too many rides early on or receive poor ratings, Uber may deactivate your account while they review your performance.

You will also need to set up direct deposit so Uber can pay you. This is done in the app under "Earnings" or "Payments." Uber typically pays weekly, and the money goes to your bank account three to five business days after the payment is sent.

Common Reasons Applications Get Rejected or Delayed

Missing or unclear documents are the most common cause of delay. If your driver's license photo is cut off, your insurance card is expired, or your vehicle registration does not match your name, Uber will ask you to resubmit. Always double-check that documents are fully visible and current before you upload.

Insurance issues also hold up many applications. If your insurance does not cover rideshare, Uber will reject you. You must add a rideshare endorsement or switch policies before reapplying.

Vehicle age or condition can disqualify you. If your car is older than Uber's limit for your city, or if the VIN check shows a salvage title or major accident history, you will be rejected. You cannot appeal this — you would need a different vehicle.

Background check issues are harder to fix. If you have a DUI or multiple moving violations in the past few years, Uber will likely reject you. Some rejections are permanent; others may be reconsidered after a certain amount of time has passed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the whole process take from application to first ride?

One to two weeks is typical if your documents are clear and your background check passes. If Uber asks you to resubmit documents, add another week. If there are issues with your background or vehicle, it can take three to four weeks or result in rejection.

Can I drive for Uber if I have an accident on my record?

A single accident does not automatically disqualify you, but Uber reviews the details. If you were at fault and it was recent, it may delay approval. If the accident resulted in a moving violation (like reckless driving), it counts against you. Uber's background check will flag it, and they will make a decision based on how recent it was and your overall driving record.

What if Uber rejects me — can I reapply?

Yes, but only after the reason for rejection is resolved. If it was a document issue, resubmit with clear photos. If it was a background check issue, you cannot reapply until enough time has passed (usually seven years for moving violations). Contact Uber support to ask when you can try again.

Do I need commercial insurance before I apply?

Yes. Standard personal auto insurance does not cover rideshare driving. You must have a policy that includes rideshare coverage or add a rideshare endorsement. Uber will ask for proof of insurance during the application, and if it does not cover commercial use, your application will be rejected.

What if my vehicle registration is in my spouse's name?

Uber requires the vehicle to be registered in your name. If it is not, you will need written permission from the registered owner on file with Uber, or you will need to transfer the registration to your name before you apply. Check with your state's DMV about the process and timeline for a title transfer.