What Uber expects from new drivers and delivery partners before you start
Uber does not have a formal "career prep" program, but the company does require specific documents, background checks, and vehicle standards before you can accept rides or deliveries. The requirements differ depending on whether you want to drive passengers (Uber X, Uber Black), deliver food (Uber Eats), or do both. You will need a valid driver's license, proof of insurance, vehicle registration, and a clean driving record. Uber also runs a background check that looks at your driving history, criminal record, and sex offender registry status.
The process from application to your first trip typically takes one to two weeks, though it can be faster or slower depending on how quickly you submit documents and whether Uber needs to verify anything with third parties. You can start the application on the Uber Driver app or the Uber Eats app, depending on which service you want to join. The app will tell you exactly which documents you need based on your location, because requirements vary by state and city.
Key Takeaways
- You must have a valid driver's license, proof of insurance, vehicle registration, and a clean driving record before Uber will activate your account.
- Uber runs a background check that includes your driving history and criminal record; the results determine whether you are approved.
- The approval process usually takes one to two weeks from the time you submit all required documents.
- Requirements vary by state and city, so the Uber Driver or Uber Eats app will show you exactly what documents you need in your location.
- You can drive passengers, deliver food, or do both, but each service has slightly different document and vehicle requirements.
Documents you will need to submit
The core documents are the same across most locations: a photo of your driver's license (front and back), proof of vehicle insurance, vehicle registration, and proof of your Social Security number. Uber accepts a Social Security card, tax return, or W-2 form as proof. You will also need to provide your date of birth and a phone number where Uber can reach you.
If you are driving passengers (not just delivering), Uber requires proof that your vehicle passes inspection in your state. Some states require an annual safety inspection; others do not. You will need to show proof of that inspection or a certificate stating your vehicle does not require one. If you are under 25 years old, Uber requires an additional insurance document showing you are listed as a driver on the policy.
For Uber Eats delivery only (bicycle, scooter, or on foot), the requirements are lighter: you need a photo ID, proof of your phone number, and your date of birth. You do not need vehicle insurance or registration if you are not using a car.
How Uber's background check works
Uber uses a third-party background check company to review your driving record, criminal history, and sex offender registry status. The company pulls your record from the Department of Motor Vehicles in your state and checks national criminal databases. This process usually takes three to five business days, but can take longer if there are delays in accessing records or if Uber needs to verify something manually.
Uber has specific rules about what disqualifies you. A single traffic violation will not end your application, but multiple violations in a short time, a DUI or DWI conviction, reckless driving charges, or a felony conviction within the past seven years will likely result in rejection. Uber also rejects applicants with a sex offender conviction or anyone who appears on a sex offender registry. If you have been rejected, Uber will tell you the reason, though the explanation may be brief.
If you believe the background check contains an error, you can dispute it through Uber's support system. You will need to provide documentation (such as court records or a letter from your state's DMV) showing that the information is incorrect. This process can take several weeks.
Vehicle requirements for passenger rides
Your car must be at least four doors and meet your state's safety inspection standards. Uber does not have a single age limit for all vehicles — it varies by state and city — but generally cars older than 15 to 20 years may not be approved. The vehicle must have valid registration and insurance in your name or in the name of someone who has given you written permission to use it.
Your insurance must cover commercial use (driving for hire). Personal auto insurance policies often exclude commercial driving, so you will need to either add a commercial rider to your existing policy or purchase commercial insurance separately. Uber offers its own insurance product in some states, but it is supplemental and does not replace your own policy. Check with your current insurance company first to see whether they cover Uber driving or whether you need to switch providers.
The vehicle must be in good mechanical condition. Uber does not require a formal pre-purchase inspection, but the company reserves the right to deactivate your account if your car develops safety issues (broken lights, worn tires, visible damage) that passengers report or that Uber observes during a ride.
What happens after you are approved
Once Uber approves your application, you will receive a notification in the Uber Driver app or Uber Eats app. You can then turn on the app and start receiving ride or delivery requests. Your first few trips may be limited — Uber sometimes caps new drivers at a certain number of rides per day for the first week — but this restriction is lifted once you complete a few trips without problems.
You will be able to see your earnings in real time within the app. Uber deposits your money into your bank account weekly, usually on Tuesday or Wednesday, depending on your location. You can also cash out instantly using Uber's instant cash-out feature, though there is a small fee for each instant withdrawal.
Uber monitors your ratings and behavior continuously. If passengers rate you below 4.6 stars (on a scale of 1 to 5), or if you receive complaints about safety, cleanliness, or professionalism, Uber may deactivate your account. You can see your rating in the app at any time.
Differences between passenger driving and food delivery
Passenger driving (Uber X, Uber Black) requires a four-door vehicle, commercial insurance, and a background check. You will need to pass a vehicle inspection and meet your state's safety standards. Earnings vary by location and demand, but Uber typically takes a percentage of each fare (usually 25 to 30 percent) and you keep the rest, plus tips.
Food delivery (Uber Eats) can be done by car, bicycle, scooter, or on foot. If you use a car, the same insurance and vehicle rules apply. If you use a bicycle or scooter, you only need a photo ID and proof of your phone number. Earnings are lower per delivery than per passenger ride, but you can complete more deliveries in the same time. Uber Eats also takes a percentage of each order (usually 15 to 30 percent depending on your location and the restaurant), and you keep the rest plus tips.
Some drivers do both passenger and delivery work. If you want to do both, you will need to meet the requirements for passenger driving (the stricter set), and then you can also turn on Uber Eats deliveries whenever you want.
Common reasons applications are rejected or delayed
The most common reason for rejection is a driving record issue: multiple traffic violations, a DUI, reckless driving, or a suspended license. The second most common is incomplete or unclear documents — for example, a photo of your driver's license that is too blurry to read, or insurance that does not show your name clearly. If your documents are unclear, resubmit them with better photos or clearer copies.
Delays often happen because Uber cannot reach you by phone or email to ask for clarification. Make sure the phone number and email you provide are ones you check regularly. If Uber sends you a message asking for more information, respond within a few days or your application may be closed and you will have to start over.
Vehicle registration or insurance issues also cause delays. If your insurance company has not yet added you as a commercial driver, or if your vehicle registration is expired, Uber will ask you to resubmit proof once those issues are resolved. Do not submit false or forged documents — Uber verifies everything with the issuing agencies, and submitting false information can result in permanent deactivation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the background check take?
Most background checks complete within three to five business days. If Uber needs to verify something manually or if there are delays accessing records from your state's DMV, it can take up to two weeks. You can check the status of your background check in the Uber Driver app under "Documents."
Can I drive for Uber if I have a criminal record?
It depends on the type and age of the conviction. Felonies within the past seven years, sex offender convictions, and violent crimes will disqualify you. Misdemeanors and older felonies may not, but Uber reviews each case individually. If you have been rejected, you can contact Uber support to ask for a review or to dispute the background check results.
What if my insurance company says they do not cover Uber driving?
You will need to find a different insurance company or add a commercial rider to your policy. Some insurers offer commercial coverage for rideshare driving; others do not. Call your current company first, and if they cannot help, search for "rideshare insurance" in your state. Uber also offers supplemental insurance in some locations, but it does not replace your own policy.
Can I start driving before my background check is complete?
No. Uber will not activate your account until the background check is finished and you have been approved. You can submit your documents and wait for the results, but you cannot accept rides or deliveries until Uber sends you an approval notification.
What happens if I get a traffic ticket after I start driving for Uber?
A single ticket will not automatically deactivate your account, but Uber may review your driving record periodically. Multiple violations in a short time can result in deactivation. If you receive a serious violation (DUI, reckless driving), Uber will likely deactivate you immediately. You can dispute the deactivation if you believe it was an error.