What You Need to Start Delivering for Uber Eats

To deliver for Uber Eats, you need to be at least 18 years old, have a valid driver's license, proof of insurance, and a vehicle registered in your name. You also need a smartphone with the Uber Driver app, a bank account for payouts, and a Social Security number or tax ID. The signup process itself takes place entirely online through the Uber Driver portal, though some steps require document uploads that Uber reviews before you can start accepting deliveries.

The vehicle requirements depend on whether you deliver by car, bike, or scooter. For car delivery, your vehicle must be registered, insured, and pass a vehicle inspection. Bikes and scooters have no registration or insurance requirement in most places, but you still need to be 18 and have a valid ID. Uber does not require you to own the vehicle outright — you can use a financed or leased car as long as you have proof of insurance in your name.

Key Takeaways

  • You must be 18 or older with a valid driver's license, proof of insurance, and a smartphone to start the signup process.
  • Document uploads include your license, insurance card, vehicle registration, and proof of address; Uber typically reviews these within a few days.
  • A background check is required and may take one to two weeks; any felony convictions or certain driving violations can disqualify you.
  • Once approved, you can start accepting delivery orders through the Uber Driver app and receive payment weekly to your bank account.
  • You are responsible for vehicle maintenance, gas, and insurance — these costs reduce your actual earnings.

Documents You Must Upload During Signup

Uber requires specific documents before you can be approved. You need a clear photo of both sides of your driver's license, a photo of your insurance card showing your name and the vehicle covered, and a photo of your vehicle registration. You also need proof of your address — a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days — and a photo of your vehicle itself (exterior and interior).

All documents must be clear, legible, and match the name on your driver's license. If your insurance card or registration shows a different name — for example, a spouse's name — Uber will ask for clarification or additional paperwork. Upload these documents through the Uber Driver app during signup. Uber typically reviews them within three to five business days, though this can take longer during high-volume periods.

The Background Check and Approval Timeline

After you upload your documents, Uber runs a background check through a third-party screening company. The check looks for felony convictions, certain misdemeanors (especially those involving violence or theft), and driving violations like DUIs or reckless driving. The background check usually takes one to two weeks, though it can be faster or slower depending on the screening company's workload and whether your record requires manual review.

You will receive an email once the background check is complete. If you are approved, you can start accepting deliveries immediately. If Uber denies you, the email will state the reason — usually a disqualifying conviction or driving record issue. You cannot appeal the decision directly to Uber, but you can contact the background check company to dispute inaccurate information on your report.

Setting Up Your Bank Account and Payment Method

During signup, you must provide your bank account information for payouts. Uber deposits your earnings weekly, typically on Tuesday or Wednesday, to the checking or savings account you link. The account must be in your name and be a U.S. bank account. You cannot use a prepaid card, PayPal, or a joint account unless your name is on it.

Uber charges no fee for weekly payouts. However, if you want to cash out your earnings before the weekly deposit — called "Instant Pay" — Uber charges a small fee (usually $0.50 to $2.00 per transfer, depending on your bank). You can set up Instant Pay through the app once your account is active, but it is not required.

Vehicle Inspection and Insurance Requirements

If you are delivering by car, your vehicle must pass an inspection before you start. Some cities require an in-person inspection at a partner location; others allow you to upload photos of your vehicle's odometer, license plate, and interior. The inspection confirms your vehicle is safe and roadworthy. You cannot have major damage, broken lights, or safety issues.

Insurance is mandatory. Your policy must cover commercial use or rideshare/delivery work — personal auto insurance often does not. Some insurance companies offer a separate rideshare rider for $10 to $20 per month; others require you to switch to a commercial policy. Before you start, contact your insurance company and confirm your policy covers delivery work. Uber may ask to see your insurance card during the signup process, and they verify it is active.

How Earnings and Payments Work

Uber Eats pays you per delivery, not per hour. Your payment for each order depends on the distance, time, and demand in your area. Uber shows you the estimated payout before you accept a delivery, so you know what you will earn. Tips are added separately and go directly to you — Uber does not take a cut of tips.

Your weekly payout includes all deliveries completed during that week, minus any adjustments for canceled orders or disputes. Uber deducts nothing for gas, vehicle wear, or insurance — those are your responsibility. You also receive a 1099-NEC tax form at the end of the year, meaning you are classified as an independent contractor and responsible for paying self-employment taxes. Many drivers set aside 25 to 30 percent of their earnings for taxes.

What Happens If Your Application Is Denied

If Uber denies your application, the most common reasons are a disqualifying criminal conviction, a serious driving violation (DUI, reckless driving, multiple accidents), or a problem with your documents (expired license, insurance that does not cover the vehicle, or proof of address that does not match your ID). Uber sends an email explaining the reason.

You cannot reapply immediately if you are denied. If the issue is a document problem — for example, your insurance card was expired — you can contact Uber support and ask to resubmit. If the issue is a background check result, you can dispute it with the background check company if you believe the information is wrong. Otherwise, you must wait a set period (usually six months to a year) before reapplying, depending on the reason for denial.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the entire signup process take?

Document review usually takes three to five business days, and the background check takes one to two weeks. In total, most drivers are approved within two to three weeks of starting signup. However, if Uber requests additional documents or your background check requires manual review, it can take longer.

Can I use someone else's car to deliver for Uber Eats?

No. The vehicle must be registered in your name, and your insurance must cover you as the driver. If you use a car registered to someone else, Uber will deny your application or deactivate your account if discovered.

What if I do not have a bank account?

You must have a bank account in your name to receive payouts. Uber does not offer alternative payment methods like prepaid cards or cash pickup. If you do not have a bank account, you will need to open one before you can complete signup.

Do I need a commercial driver's license to deliver for Uber Eats?

No. A standard driver's license is sufficient. A commercial driver's license (CDL) is only required for vehicles over a certain weight or for transporting passengers or hazardous materials — neither applies to food delivery.

Can I deliver if I have a suspended or revoked license?

No. Your driver's license must be valid and in good standing. Uber checks your driving record during the background check, and a suspended or revoked license will disqualify you.