Vehicle requirements to drive for Uber
Your car must be at least four doors, registered in your name or with written permission from the owner, and insured. Uber requires a vehicle inspection before you can start driving — this checks that brakes, lights, tires, and windshield meet basic safety standards. The inspection happens at a third-party location (not Uber directly) and costs money, though the amount varies by location.
Your vehicle must pass a background check that includes a title search to confirm no liens or salvage titles. If your car has been in a major accident, flooded, or rebuilt after being declared a total loss, it will not pass. The vehicle also cannot be a taxi, limousine, or commercial vehicle already registered for hire.
Key Takeaways
- Your car must be at least four doors and registered in your name or with documented owner permission.
- You will need to pay for a third-party vehicle inspection that checks safety systems like brakes, lights, and tires.
- Salvage titles, flood damage, and major accident history will disqualify your vehicle from Uber.
- Insurance is required, and Uber's commercial coverage does not replace your personal policy — you need both active at the same time.
- The inspection and background check process takes one to two weeks after you submit documents.
Age and mileage limits
Your vehicle cannot be older than a certain year — this limit changes by city and year. In most U.S. markets, Uber accepts cars from 2011 or newer, but some cities allow 2010 or older, and a few require 2015 or newer. Check your specific city on the Uber driver app or website before you start the inspection process, because an older car that fails in one city might pass in another.
Mileage limits also vary. Some cities cap vehicles at 200,000 miles; others allow higher mileage if the car passes inspection. A few markets have no mileage cap at all. The inspection itself is the real test — if your car runs safely and all systems work, high mileage alone will not disqualify you in most places.
Insurance you must carry
You need personal auto insurance that is active before you start driving for Uber. Your personal policy must cover you while you are logged into the Uber app, even if you are not actively on a trip. Many personal insurance policies exclude commercial use, so call your insurance company and tell them you will be driving for Uber — do not assume your current policy covers it.
Uber provides commercial coverage that kicks in during active trips (from when you accept a ride until the passenger exits), but this does not replace your personal insurance. You must have both. If you cause an accident while logged in but not on a trip, your personal insurance is responsible. If you cause an accident during an active trip, Uber's coverage applies first, then your personal policy covers anything above Uber's limits.
The cost of adding commercial coverage to your personal policy varies by insurer and location. Some companies charge $10 to $30 per month; others charge per trip. Get a quote before you commit to driving.
Documents you need to submit
You will need to upload several documents through the Uber driver app. These include your driver's license, vehicle registration, proof of insurance, and a photo of your vehicle (usually the front, back, and sides). The registration must show your name or have a notarized letter from the owner giving you permission to use the vehicle for Uber.
You will also need to provide your vehicle identification number (VIN), which is on your registration and dashboard. Uber uses the VIN to run the title search and check for salvage or flood history. If you have recently purchased the vehicle, make sure the registration is in your name before you apply — temporary registrations or dealer plates will not work.
Keep copies of everything you upload. If Uber requests additional documents or clarification, you will need to resubmit quickly to avoid delays.
The inspection process and cost
After you submit your documents, Uber will direct you to a third-party inspection location near you. Common inspection partners include local mechanics, car dealerships, and dedicated inspection centers. You schedule an appointment and bring your vehicle in person.
The inspection checks your brakes, lights (headlights, taillights, brake lights, turn signals), windshield condition, tires (tread depth and no major damage), wipers, horn, and seatbelts. The inspector also looks for rust, dents, or damage that affects safety. You do not need a perfect-looking car, but it must be mechanically sound and safe to drive passengers.
Inspection fees range from $20 to $100 depending on your location and the inspection partner. Some locations charge a flat fee; others charge per item checked. Ask the cost before you schedule. If your vehicle fails, you can fix the problems and request a reinspection, usually for a smaller fee or free within a set time frame.
What happens if your vehicle fails inspection
If your car does not pass, the inspection report will list the specific failures — usually things like worn brake pads, cracked windshield, low tire tread, or non-functioning lights. You then have the option to fix the issues and schedule a reinspection.
Some failures are quick and cheap to fix (new wiper blades, replacing a bulb). Others cost more (new tires, brake work, windshield replacement). If the repairs are expensive, you may decide it is not worth driving for Uber with that vehicle. There is no penalty for failing inspection — you simply cannot drive until you pass.
If your vehicle has a salvage title or major flood damage, it will fail inspection and cannot be resubmitted. These are permanent disqualifications.
Keeping your vehicle approved after you start driving
Your vehicle inspection is valid for one year. After that, you will need to pass another inspection to keep driving. Uber will notify you when your inspection is about to expire.
During the year, if you get into an accident, your vehicle may be flagged for reinspection even if it looks fine. If you make major repairs or modifications, tell Uber — some changes require a new inspection. If your registration or insurance lapses, your account will be deactivated until you update it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a vehicle that is not registered in my name?
Yes, but you need written permission from the registered owner. This is usually a notarized letter stating that you have permission to use the vehicle for Uber. You will upload this letter along with the owner's registration. If the owner is a spouse or family member, Uber may ask for additional proof of your relationship.
What if my car has a lien on it?
A lien means the bank or lender owns the vehicle until you pay off the loan. Uber will not approve a vehicle with an active lien. You must own the vehicle outright or have written permission from the lienholder. Contact your lender to ask if they will provide this permission — many will not, because commercial use increases risk.
Do I need to add Uber to my insurance policy before I apply?
Yes. Your insurance must be active and cover commercial use before you submit your documents. If you apply without it and then add coverage later, there may be a gap where you are not covered. Call your insurance company first, get confirmation in writing, and then start the Uber process.
Can I use a rental car or a car I am leasing?
Rental cars are usually not allowed because Uber requires proof of registration in your name. Leased vehicles may be allowed if you have written permission from the leasing company and the lease agreement allows commercial use. Most lease agreements prohibit this, so check your contract and contact the leasing company before you apply.
How long does the whole approval process take?
From submitting documents to passing inspection usually takes one to two weeks, depending on how quickly you schedule the inspection and how fast the inspection center processes results. If your vehicle fails and you need repairs, add time for that. Once you pass, you can start driving within 24 hours.