Uber requires a vehicle inspection before you can start driving, and you'll need to pass it again every year
Before Uber activates your driver account, you must have your vehicle inspected by an approved third-party inspector. This inspection verifies that your car meets Uber's safety and condition standards. The inspection is not done by Uber directly — you schedule it through a partner inspection service in your area, pay the inspection fee (which varies by location, typically between $15 and $50), and receive a report that you upload to your Uber driver account.
Once you're driving, Uber requires a renewal inspection every 12 months. If your vehicle fails inspection or your inspection expires, Uber will deactivate your account until you complete a new one. The inspection itself takes about 30 minutes and covers mechanical function, safety features, and the overall condition of the interior and exterior.
Key Takeaways
- You must complete an initial vehicle inspection through an Uber-approved inspector before your first trip, and renew it annually.
- The inspection checks brakes, lights, tires, windshield, seatbelts, and interior condition — not just whether the car runs.
- You pay the inspection fee directly to the third-party service, and Uber does not reimburse it.
- If your inspection expires or you fail, Uber will turn off your account until you pass a new inspection.
- You can find approved inspectors through the Uber app or by searching your city name plus "Uber vehicle inspection."
What the inspection actually checks
The Uber vehicle inspection form covers safety and mechanical systems that directly affect passenger safety. An inspector will verify that your brakes work properly, all lights (headlights, taillights, brake lights, turn signals) function, tires have adequate tread and are not damaged, the windshield is free of cracks in the driver's line of sight, and all seatbelts are present and operational.
The inspector also checks the interior condition — seats must not be torn or heavily stained, the floor must be clean and free of debris, and the trunk or cargo area must be accessible and reasonably clean. The exterior is inspected for major dents, rust, or damage that affects the vehicle's structural integrity or appearance. Some inspectors will also verify that your vehicle's registration and insurance are current.
The specific checklist can vary slightly by state and by Uber's current standards, so ask your inspector for the full list before the appointment. You can also view Uber's vehicle requirements in the driver app under the "Documents" or "Vehicle" section.
How to find and schedule an inspection
Open your Uber driver app and look for the vehicle inspection section, usually under "Documents" or "Vehicle Information." Uber will show you a list of approved inspection partners in your area, along with their locations and hours. You can also search online for "Uber vehicle inspection near me" or "[your city] Uber inspection" to find additional approved providers.
Call or visit the inspector's website to schedule an appointment. Bring your vehicle registration, proof of insurance, and a valid ID. Some inspectors offer same-day or next-day appointments, while others may have a wait. The inspection itself takes 20 to 40 minutes. Once you pass, the inspector will provide a report — either printed or digital — that you upload to your Uber account immediately or within a few days.
If you fail the inspection, the inspector will tell you which items need to be fixed. Common failures include worn tires, non-functional lights, or damaged windshields. You can have the repairs done and return to the same inspector for a re-inspection, which may cost less than the initial inspection.
Cost and timing for your inspection
Inspection fees range from $15 to $50 depending on your location and the inspection service. Uber does not cover this cost — you pay the inspector directly. Some areas have lower-cost options through community colleges or vocational schools, so it's worth calling around if the standard inspection price is high in your area.
The inspection is valid for 12 months from the date you pass it. Uber will send you a reminder notification when your inspection is about to expire, usually 30 days before the deadline. If you miss the deadline, Uber will deactivate your account and you'll need to pass a new inspection to reactivate.
Plan to schedule your inspection at least a week before you want to start driving, in case you fail and need time for repairs. If you're renewing an inspection, schedule it before your current one expires to avoid any gap in your driving may be able to access.
What happens if you fail the inspection
A failed inspection means one or more items on the checklist did not meet Uber's standards. The inspector will provide a written report listing the specific failures — for example, "left headlight not functioning" or "tread depth below minimum." You then have the option to repair the vehicle and return for a re-inspection.
Most inspection services charge a lower fee for re-inspections, typically $10 to $25. You do not need to go to the same inspector, but using the same one can be faster since they already have your vehicle's history. Once you pass the re-inspection, upload the new report to Uber and your account will be reactivated within a few hours to a day.
If you choose not to repair the vehicle, you cannot drive for Uber until you do. Uber will not make exceptions for vehicles that fail inspection, regardless of how long you've been driving.
Renewing your inspection each year
Twelve months after you pass your initial inspection, you'll need to renew it. Uber will notify you through the app when your inspection is expiring. You can schedule a renewal inspection with any approved inspector — you don't have to use the same one as before.
The renewal inspection covers the same checklist as the initial inspection. If your vehicle has been well-maintained, renewal inspections typically pass on the first attempt. If you've had repairs or your vehicle has accumulated wear, the inspector may flag items that need attention.
Schedule your renewal at least a few weeks before your current inspection expires. If your inspection lapses without a renewal, Uber will deactivate your account and you'll need to pass a new inspection to reactivate — this can take several days depending on inspector availability.
Preparing your vehicle for inspection
Before your appointment, wash your car inside and out. Clean the interior thoroughly — vacuum the seats and floors, wipe down the dashboard, and remove any trash or personal items. Make sure all windows are clean and free of cracks or chips in the driver's line of sight.
Check that all lights work: headlights, taillights, brake lights, turn signals, and interior dome light. Test your brakes to ensure they're responsive. Inspect your tires for adequate tread (at least 2/32 of an inch) and proper inflation. Verify that all seatbelts latch and retract smoothly. If you know of any issues, get them fixed before the inspection rather than hoping the inspector will overlook them.
Bring your vehicle registration, proof of current insurance, and a valid driver's license to the appointment. Some inspectors may also ask for your vehicle's VIN or odometer reading, so have that information ready.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a regular car inspection or emissions test instead of Uber's inspection?
No. Uber requires its own specific inspection form completed by an approved inspector. A state safety inspection or emissions test does not satisfy Uber's requirement, even if your vehicle passes both. You must use an Uber-approved inspector.
What if I can't find an approved inspector in my area?
Contact Uber support through the driver app and explain your situation. In areas with very few inspectors, Uber may extend your deadline or direct you to a partner service outside your immediate area. Do not delay — contact support as soon as you realize there's a shortage of inspectors near you.
Do I need a new inspection if I buy a different car?
Yes. Each vehicle must pass its own inspection before you can drive it for Uber. If you switch cars, you'll need to schedule a new inspection for the replacement vehicle. You cannot use your previous car's inspection report for a different vehicle.
What if my inspection expires while I'm on a trip?
Uber checks your inspection status at the start of each trip. If your inspection expires between trips, you won't be able to accept new rides. Complete a renewal inspection before your current one expires to avoid this situation.
Can I dispute a failed inspection?
If you believe the inspector made an error, you can request a re-inspection with a different approved inspector. Bring documentation of any recent repairs if you believe an item was incorrectly marked as failed. Uber does not overturn inspection results, but a second opinion from another inspector may help clarify whether the vehicle actually meets standards.