What you need to do to drive for Uber
To drive for Uber, you must meet Uber's baseline requirements, pass a background check, and provide documents that prove your identity and driving history. The process takes roughly one to two weeks from application to approval, though it varies by location and how quickly you submit your paperwork.
You'll need to be at least 21 years old (or 18 in some cities), have a valid driver's license, proof of insurance, and a vehicle that meets Uber's age and condition standards. Most cars must be 2011 or newer, though this varies by city and vehicle type. You'll also need a Social Security number or tax ID, a phone number, and a bank account for deposits.
Uber requires a background check that covers your driving record and criminal history. The company uses third-party screening services and has specific rules about what disqualifies you — typically serious felonies, violent crimes, or a pattern of traffic violations. You can contact Uber support to ask about your specific history before you apply.
Key Takeaways
- You must be at least 21 years old, have a valid driver's license and proof of insurance, and own a vehicle that meets Uber's age and condition requirements.
- Uber runs a background check on your driving record and criminal history before you can start driving.
- The approval process typically takes one to two weeks, but you can start driving immediately once Uber sends you the green light.
- You are responsible for your own vehicle maintenance, insurance, gas, and taxes — Uber does not cover these costs.
- Your earnings depend on demand in your area, the time of day you drive, and how many rides you complete; Uber takes a percentage of each fare.
Documents and information Uber will ask for
When you apply, have these documents ready: a valid driver's license, proof of vehicle registration, proof of insurance, and your Social Security number. You'll also need to upload a photo of yourself and a photo of your vehicle's front and back.
Uber will ask for your banking information so it can deposit your earnings. Most drivers receive payouts weekly, though the exact timing depends on your bank. You'll need a bank account in your name; some drivers use a business account, but a personal checking account works fine.
If you've had traffic violations or accidents, Uber may ask for more information about them. Be honest — the company can see your driving record anyway, and lying on your application can result in permanent rejection.
How the background check works
Uber uses third-party screening companies to run your background check. The check covers your driving record for the past seven years and your criminal history. Uber's policy disqualifies drivers with certain felonies, violent crimes, or sex offenses, and also looks at the frequency and severity of traffic violations.
You don't have to wait passively. If you're concerned about your history, contact Uber support before you apply and describe your situation. The company sometimes makes exceptions or can tell you upfront whether you'll be rejected. This is faster than applying, waiting weeks, and then being denied.
If Uber rejects you, you can request to know why. Some cities allow you to reapply after a certain period; others do not. The rules vary, so ask Uber directly about your options.
Vehicle requirements and what happens if yours doesn't may have access to
Your car must be at least 2011 model year in most cities, though some areas allow older vehicles and others require newer ones. The vehicle must be registered in your name, have valid insurance, and pass a visual inspection. Uber doesn't inspect your car in person — you'll upload photos and Uber's system checks them against its requirements.
The car must be in good working condition with no major damage, no missing parts, and a clean interior. Uber rejects vehicles with significant dents, broken windows, or stains. If your car doesn't meet the standard, you can either fix it and reapply or use a different vehicle if you own one.
Some cities offer vehicle rental programs through Uber or third-party companies if you don't own a may have access to car. These programs charge a weekly or daily fee, and your earnings are reduced by that amount. The math rarely works in your favor unless you're driving full-time, so compare the cost against your expected earnings first.
Insurance and what your personal policy covers
Your personal auto insurance likely does not cover commercial driving. Most personal policies exclude any income-generating use of your vehicle, which means Uber driving is not covered if you have an accident. You need commercial or rideshare insurance.
Uber provides limited liability coverage while you have a passenger in the car, but this covers damage to other people or their property — not your own vehicle or medical bills. The coverage also has gaps: it doesn't apply while you're waiting for a ride request or driving to pick up a passenger. You are responsible for those periods.
Buy a rideshare insurance policy from your current insurer or a new one. These policies cost between $10 and $30 per week and cover the gaps in Uber's coverage. Some insurers offer policies that only activate when you're logged into the Uber app, so you're not paying for coverage on days you don't drive.
How much you earn and what Uber takes
Your earnings come from fares, and Uber takes a percentage of each one — typically 25 to 30 percent, though this varies by city and ride type. You also keep tips, which passengers add through the app. Surge pricing (higher fares during busy times) is split the same way: Uber takes its cut, and you keep the rest.
Your actual hourly earnings depend on demand in your area, the time of day you drive, and how efficiently you complete rides. Drivers in busy cities during peak hours can earn $20 to $30 per hour before expenses. Drivers in slower areas or during off-peak times earn less. Uber does not may provide a minimum wage or a minimum number of rides.
You must pay for gas, vehicle maintenance, repairs, and insurance out of your earnings. You're also responsible for self-employment taxes, which are roughly 15 percent of your net income. Many drivers don't account for these costs upfront and end up with less take-home pay than they expected.
Taxes and record-keeping you'll need to handle
Uber is not your employer — you're an independent contractor. This means Uber doesn't withhold taxes, provide benefits, or cover workers' compensation. You're responsible for paying self-employment tax and income tax on your earnings.
Uber sends you a 1099-NEC form at the end of the year showing your gross earnings. This is what you report to the IRS. You can deduct business expenses — gas, maintenance, insurance, phone service — to reduce your taxable income. Keep receipts and track your mileage; the IRS allows a standard mileage deduction if you prefer not to track actual expenses.
Many drivers set aside 25 to 30 percent of their earnings for taxes and expenses. If you don't, you may owe a large bill at tax time. Consider working with a tax professional who understands gig work, especially if this is your primary income.
What happens after you're approved
Once Uber approves you, you'll receive an email confirming your status. You can then download the Uber Driver app, log in, and start accepting rides. There's no formal start date or training — you begin whenever you want.
Your first few rides may be slower as you learn the app and get comfortable with the process. Uber's rating system is important: passengers rate you after each ride, and your average rating affects how many ride requests you receive. Ratings below 4.6 stars can result in deactivation.
You can drive as much or as little as you want. There's no minimum number of hours or rides per week. You can log in and out of the app whenever you choose. However, Uber may deactivate your account if you go too long without accepting rides or if your rating drops significantly.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get approved after I apply?
Most drivers are approved within one to two weeks, but it depends on how quickly you submit your documents and how long the background check takes. If Uber needs more information from you, the process can take longer. You can check your application status in the Uber Driver app.
What if I have a DUI or accident on my record?
Uber's policy varies by location and the details of your history. Contact Uber support before you apply and describe your situation honestly. Some cities reject drivers with recent DUIs; others may consider it depending on how long ago it happened. You won't know unless you ask.
Can I drive for Uber and another rideshare company at the same time?
Yes. Many drivers work for Uber, Lyft, and other platforms simultaneously. You can log into multiple apps and accept rides from whichever company offers the best fare. This is legal and common, though it requires managing multiple apps and ratings.
What if my car breaks down while I'm driving a passenger?
You're responsible for getting the passenger to their destination or arranging a replacement ride. Uber does not cover towing or repairs. This is why insurance and a maintenance fund are critical — a major repair can wipe out weeks of earnings if you're not prepared.
Can Uber deactivate me without warning?
Yes. Uber can deactivate your account for low ratings, safety violations, or not driving for an extended period. You have the right to appeal, but Uber's decision is final. This is why maintaining a high rating and staying active is important if you want to keep driving.