What You Need Before You Start

Uber requires you to meet several conditions before you can drive. You must be at least 18 years old, have a valid driver's license, and have been driving for at least one year (in most U.S. states). You also need a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), proof of residency, and a vehicle that meets Uber's standards.

Your vehicle must be at least 2010 or newer in most markets, though some cities require newer cars. It needs to pass a vehicle inspection, have valid registration and insurance, and be in good working condition. Uber will run a background check on you, which includes a driving record review and criminal history screening. The specific requirements vary by location, so check Uber's website for your city before you begin.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a valid driver's license, at least one year of driving history, and a vehicle from 2010 or newer to start the sign-up process.
  • Uber runs a background check that includes your driving record and criminal history, and the results determine whether you are accepted.
  • The sign-up process happens online through the Uber driver app, and you upload documents directly rather than visiting an office.
  • After you submit your documents, approval typically takes one to two weeks, though this varies by location and how quickly you provide required paperwork.
  • You will need to pass a vehicle inspection and provide proof of insurance and registration before you can accept your first ride.

Documents You Will Need to Upload

During sign-up, you upload documents directly through the Uber driver app. Have these ready before you start: a clear photo of your driver's license (front and back), a photo of your vehicle registration, proof of insurance with your name on it, and a recent utility bill or lease agreement showing your current address.

You will also need to provide your Social Security number or ITIN. Uber uses this for tax reporting and background check purposes. If you do not have a Social Security number, you can use an ITIN issued by the IRS. Keep copies of all documents you upload in case you need to resubmit or clarify anything during the review process.

The Step-by-Step Sign-Up Process

Start by downloading the Uber Driver app on your phone and tapping "Sign Up." Enter your phone number and email address, then create a password. Uber will send you a verification code via text or email — enter it to confirm your contact information.

Next, you fill in your personal details: full name, date of birth, and address. Then you enter your driver's license number and state, and upload photos of both sides of your license. After that, you add your vehicle information — make, model, year, color, and license plate number — and upload your registration and insurance documents.

Once you submit these documents, Uber sends them for review. You will receive an email or notification in the app telling you whether you passed the background check and document review. If everything is approved, you move to the next step: scheduling your vehicle inspection.

Vehicle Inspection and Insurance Requirements

After your documents are approved, you must schedule a vehicle inspection. Uber partners with inspection centers in most cities, or you can have an inspection done at certain auto service locations. The inspection checks that your car is safe and in working order — the inspector looks at brakes, lights, tires, windshield, and overall condition.

Your insurance must cover commercial rideshare driving. Personal auto insurance typically does not cover this, so you will need to add a rideshare endorsement to your policy or switch to a policy that includes it. Some insurance companies offer this as an add-on; others require a separate commercial policy. Uber does provide some coverage once you are actively driving, but your personal insurance must be in place first.

The inspection usually costs between $20 and $50 depending on your location. Once you pass, you upload the inspection report through the app. At this point, you can usually start accepting rides.

Background Check and What Disqualifies You

Uber runs a background check through a third-party screening company. The check looks at your driving record for the past seven years and your criminal history. Certain offenses will disqualify you: felonies (particularly violent crimes or crimes involving dishonesty), DUIs within the past seven years, and reckless driving convictions.

A single minor traffic violation will not disqualify you, but multiple violations or serious infractions can. If you have been denied a license or had it suspended, you cannot drive for Uber. The background check also flags if you have been involved in accidents — a few minor accidents may not disqualify you, but a pattern of accidents or at-fault collisions can.

If you are denied, Uber will tell you why in an email. Some reasons are permanent; others may be reconsidered after a certain amount of time has passed. You can contact Uber support to ask about your specific situation, though the decision is usually final.

How Long Approval Takes and What Happens Next

The entire process from sign-up to your first ride typically takes one to three weeks. The timeline depends on how quickly you upload documents, how fast Uber's review team processes them, and when you can schedule your vehicle inspection. If you submit everything at once and schedule your inspection quickly, you might be approved in five to seven business days.

Once you are approved and have passed inspection, you can open the Uber Driver app and start accepting ride requests. You set your own hours — you can drive whenever you want, as long as the app is on. Uber will deposit your earnings into your bank account weekly, usually on Tuesday or Wednesday.

Before your first ride, make sure your phone is fully charged, your app is updated, and you know how to navigate to pickup locations. Uber provides a driver rating system, so maintaining good ratings (above 4.6 stars in most cities) helps you stay active on the platform.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I have an accident or traffic ticket on my record?

A single traffic ticket or minor accident will not automatically disqualify you. Uber looks at your overall driving history over the past seven years. Multiple violations, serious infractions like reckless driving, or at-fault accidents that suggest a pattern of unsafe driving can result in denial. Contact Uber support with details about your record if you are unsure.

Can I use a vehicle I am financing or leasing?

Yes, you can drive a financed or leased vehicle. You will need to upload the registration and proof of insurance in your name or as an authorized driver. If the vehicle is registered to someone else, you may need written permission from the owner. Check with your lender or leasing company about their rideshare policies, as some restrict commercial use.

What happens if my background check is denied?

Uber will email you explaining why you were denied. If the reason is a recent conviction or incident, you may be able to reapply after a certain period. If the denial is based on your driving record, you can request a review if you believe the information is incorrect. Uber support can provide more details about your specific case and whether reapplication is possible.

Do I need commercial insurance before I start driving?

Yes. Your personal auto insurance does not cover rideshare driving. Before you can be approved, you need to add a rideshare endorsement to your policy or switch to a policy that includes rideshare coverage. Some insurance companies offer this as a low-cost add-on. You must provide proof of this coverage during sign-up.

Can I drive for Uber if I have a suspended or restricted license?

No. You must have a valid, unrestricted driver's license to drive for Uber. If your license is suspended, revoked, or restricted, you cannot sign up or drive. Once your license is reinstated and fully valid, you can reapply.