What Uber Courier is and who can use it

Uber Courier is Uber's service for delivering packages and documents within a city, separate from food delivery (Uber Eats) or ride-sharing. A customer orders a courier through the Uber app, and an independent driver picks up the item and delivers it to the destination. The service operates in select cities across the United States and internationally, though availability varies by location.

You can use Uber Courier as a customer to send packages, documents, or small items across town. You do not need to be an Uber account holder to order, though having an account makes the process faster. Pricing is based on distance, item size, and current demand — similar to how Uber ride prices work.

If you want to work as an Uber Courier driver, you must meet Uber's driver requirements: be at least 18 years old, have a valid driver's license, pass a background check, and have an insured vehicle. The vehicle does not need to be a car — motorcycles, scooters, and bicycles are accepted in some cities. You drive your own vehicle and are responsible for maintenance, fuel, and insurance.

Key Takeaways

  • Uber Courier is available only in certain cities, so check the app to see if the service operates in your area before ordering.
  • As a customer, you pay per delivery based on distance and demand; prices can surge during busy times, similar to ride pricing.
  • As a driver, you keep a percentage of each delivery fee after Uber's cut, and you are responsible for your own vehicle costs and insurance.
  • Drivers are independent contractors, not employees, which means Uber does not provide benefits like health insurance or paid time off.
  • You can only accept deliveries in the vehicle type you registered with — a car driver cannot switch to a motorcycle mid-shift.

How to order a courier delivery

Open the Uber app and select "Courier" from the service menu. Enter the pickup location (where the item is now) and the delivery location (where it needs to go). The app will show you the estimated price and delivery time. You can add delivery instructions — for example, "Leave at front door" or "Ring the bell twice" — and specify any special handling the item needs.

Once you confirm the order and payment method, Uber matches you with a nearby driver. You can track the driver's location in real time, just as you would with a ride. The driver will arrive at the pickup location, collect the item, and deliver it to the destination. Payment is processed through the app automatically.

If the service is not available in your city, the Courier option will not appear in the app menu. Availability changes as Uber expands, so check periodically if you are in an area where it is not yet offered.

How driver earnings and payment work

Uber Courier drivers earn money per delivery. The amount you earn depends on the distance traveled, the time spent, and surge pricing (when demand is high). Uber takes a percentage of each fare — the exact cut varies by city and changes over time. You receive the remainder as your earnings.

Payment is deposited into your bank account on a weekly basis, usually within a few business days of the end of the week. You can view your earnings breakdown in the Uber Driver app, which shows each delivery's fare, Uber's cut, and what you kept. The app also tracks your acceptance rate, cancellation rate, and customer ratings.

You are responsible for all vehicle-related costs: gas, maintenance, repairs, insurance, and registration. These expenses reduce your actual take-home income. Unlike employees, you do not receive a paycheck stub or tax withholding — Uber sends you a 1099 form at the end of the year for tax purposes, and you are responsible for paying self-employment tax.

Vehicle requirements and insurance

Your vehicle must be registered, insured, and in good working condition. Uber requires proof of insurance that covers commercial use (delivery work). Standard personal auto insurance often does not cover commercial activity, so you may need to add a commercial rider or switch to a commercial policy. Some insurance companies offer specific policies for gig workers.

The vehicle must pass Uber's inspection, which checks for safety issues, mechanical problems, and excessive wear. Uber will reject vehicles that are too old (typically more than 15 years), have high mileage, or show signs of poor maintenance. You can use a car, motorcycle, scooter, or bicycle depending on what Uber accepts in your city.

Uber provides some insurance coverage while you are actively on a delivery, but it is limited and does not replace your personal policy. The coverage applies only after you have accepted a delivery and are en route. Before pickup or after dropoff, you are covered only by your own insurance. Read Uber's insurance policy carefully and confirm with your insurance company what is and is not covered.

Background checks and account approval

To become an Uber Courier driver, you must pass a background check. Uber uses third-party screening companies to review your driving history, criminal record, and other factors. The check typically takes 3 to 5 business days, though it can take longer if there are issues that need clarification.

Certain criminal convictions, a poor driving record, or multiple traffic violations can disqualify you. Uber's standards vary by state and city because background check rules differ by jurisdiction. If you are denied, Uber will tell you the reason and may allow you to appeal if you believe the decision was wrong.

Once approved, you can start accepting deliveries immediately. Your account remains active as long as you maintain Uber's standards: keep your rating above a certain threshold (usually 4.6 stars or higher), accept a minimum percentage of offers, and do not cancel too many deliveries without a valid reason.

Ratings, deactivation, and account suspension

Your customer rating is visible to Uber and affects whether you continue to receive deliveries. If your rating drops too low — typically below 4.6 stars — Uber may deactivate your account, meaning you can no longer accept new deliveries. Ratings are based on customer feedback about speed, professionalism, and item condition upon arrival.

You can also be deactivated for violating Uber's policies: refusing deliveries too often, canceling orders without reason, arriving late repeatedly, or behaving unprofessionally. Deactivation can be temporary (a warning) or permanent (you lose access to the platform). Uber notifies you of the reason, but the appeals process is limited and decisions are rarely overturned.

If your account is suspended, you have a window to appeal — usually 30 days. You can submit additional information or context about the incident. However, Uber's final decision is binding, and there is no external review process. Once deactivated permanently, you cannot reapply.

Taxes and self-employment obligations

As an independent contractor, you are responsible for paying income tax and self-employment tax on your Uber Courier earnings. Self-employment tax covers Social Security and Medicare and is typically around 15.3% of your net income. You must pay estimated taxes quarterly if you expect to owe more than $1,000 at the end of the year.

Keep records of all your earnings and expenses. Deductible expenses include gas, vehicle maintenance, insurance premiums, phone bills (if used for work), and depreciation on your vehicle. These deductions reduce your taxable income. Many gig workers use tax software or hire an accountant to track expenses and file correctly.

Uber sends you a 1099-NEC form by January 31 each year showing your total earnings. This form is also sent to the IRS. If you do not pay taxes owed, the IRS can pursue collection, including wage garnishment or liens. Set aside a portion of each delivery payment for taxes so you are not caught short at tax time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Uber Courier available in my city?

Open the Uber app and look for "Courier" in the service menu. If it does not appear, the service is not available in your area yet. You can also check Uber's website for a list of cities where Courier operates, though the list is not always current. Availability expands periodically, so check back if it is not available now.

What happens if a package gets lost or damaged during delivery?

As a customer, you can report the issue through the app and request a refund or replacement. Uber has a claims process for damaged or lost items. As a driver, you are not liable for damage unless you caused it through negligence — Uber's insurance typically covers accidental damage. However, if a customer claims you stole or intentionally damaged an item, Uber may deactivate your account pending investigation.

Can I use Uber Courier to deliver alcohol or other restricted items?

No. Uber Courier does not allow delivery of alcohol, prescription medications, or other age-restricted or regulated items. Violating this policy can result in account deactivation. Check Uber's full list of prohibited items before accepting a delivery.

Do I need a commercial driver's license to work as an Uber Courier driver?

In most states, no — a standard driver's license is sufficient for Uber Courier work. However, some states or cities have specific rules about commercial delivery, so check your local regulations. If you are unsure, contact your state's Department of Motor Vehicles or your local transportation authority.

What if I get into an accident while on a delivery?

Report it to Uber immediately through the app. Uber provides limited liability coverage while you are actively on a delivery, but your personal insurance is the primary coverage. File a claim with your insurance company and provide them with Uber's incident report. Do not admit fault at the scene; let the insurance companies investigate.