The basic requirements to become an Uber driver

To drive for Uber, you need to be at least 18 years old, have a valid driver's license, own or have regular access to a may have access to vehicle, and pass a background check. Uber runs a screening process that looks at your driving history and criminal record — the specifics vary by state and city, but most drivers are approved or denied within a few days to a week.

You'll also need a Social Security number, a valid email address, and a phone number to complete your account. Uber uses these to verify your identity and stay in contact with you about rides and payments. The entire signup process happens on the Uber Driver app or website, and you can start it from home before you ever meet anyone in person.

Your vehicle must be registered in your name or in the name of someone who lives with you. If you're using someone else's car, that person will need to add you as an authorized driver on their insurance policy, and Uber may ask for proof of that arrangement.

Key Takeaways

  • You must be at least 18, have a valid driver's license, and own or regularly access a vehicle that meets Uber's age and condition standards.
  • Uber runs a background check that includes your driving record and criminal history, and approval or denial typically takes several days to a week.
  • Your vehicle must be registered in your name or in the name of someone in your household, and you'll need proof of insurance that covers rideshare driving.
  • You need a Social Security number, email address, and phone number to complete your account and receive payment.
  • Insurance requirements vary by state, but Uber's own coverage does not replace your personal policy — you need both.

Vehicle requirements and age limits

Your car must be at least four doors and meet Uber's condition standards — no major dents, broken windows, or interior damage. The minimum age of the vehicle depends on where you drive. In most cities, your car must be 2011 or newer, though some areas allow 2010 or older vehicles. Uber inspects photos of your car during signup and may ask you to take new photos if the condition doesn't meet their standards.

You can drive a sedan, SUV, minivan, or hatchback. Uber does not accept two-door vehicles, convertibles, or vehicles with salvage titles. If you're unsure whether your specific car model qualifies, you can search the Uber vehicle list on their website by entering your vehicle's year, make, and model.

Your vehicle registration and proof of insurance must both be current and in your name. If the registration or insurance is expired, Uber will not let you go online to accept rides until you update it. You can upload new documents through the Uber Driver app at any time.

Insurance and what Uber's coverage does and doesn't cover

You must carry your own personal auto insurance policy. Uber's insurance does not replace it — it fills gaps in your coverage during specific moments. When you're online in the Uber app but haven't accepted a ride yet, you're covered only by your personal policy. Once you accept a ride, Uber's insurance kicks in and covers you up to certain limits while you're transporting a passenger.

The problem is that most personal auto insurance policies exclude rideshare driving. If you get in an accident while driving for Uber and your insurer finds out you were driving for a rideshare company, they may deny your claim. Before you sign up, contact your insurance company and ask whether your policy covers rideshare driving, or whether you need to add a rideshare endorsement. Some insurers offer this as an add-on for a small monthly fee; others require you to switch to a commercial or rideshare-specific policy.

Uber provides contingent liability coverage in most states, but it has limits and exclusions. It does not cover damage to your own vehicle — that's why you need your personal collision and comprehensive coverage. If you're financing or leasing your car, your lender or leasing company may also require you to maintain specific insurance levels.

Background check and driving record requirements

Uber pulls your driving record from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles and checks for serious violations. Most drivers with a clean record are approved within days. If you have traffic tickets, minor accidents, or a suspended license within the past few years, Uber may still approve you, but the timeline may be longer while they review the details.

Uber also runs a criminal background check through a third-party screening company. They look for felonies and certain misdemeanors, though the exact list of disqualifying offenses varies by state. Violent crimes, sexual offenses, and drug-related felonies typically result in denial. Some states allow Uber to consider the date of the offense — if it was many years ago, you may still be approved.

If your background check is denied, Uber will tell you the reason and give you a chance to dispute it if you believe the information is wrong. You can contact Uber's support team to request a review, and you may be asked to provide court documents or other proof that corrects the record.

Phone number, email, and payment setup

You'll need an active phone number and email address to create your Uber Driver account. Uber uses your phone number to send you ride requests and important account notifications. Your email is where Uber sends your weekly earnings summary and any messages about your account status.

To receive payment, you'll need to link a bank account in your name. Uber deposits your earnings weekly, usually on Tuesday or Wednesday, depending on your bank. The money comes from a clearing account, not directly from Uber, so there may be a one- or two-day delay depending on your bank's processing speed. You can check your balance and earnings history in the Uber Driver app at any time.

If you don't have a bank account, some banks and financial services offer accounts specifically for gig workers. You can also use certain money transfer services, though Uber's direct deposit option is the fastest and most reliable way to receive your pay.

Documents you'll upload during signup

During the signup process, you'll upload photos or scans of several documents through the Uber Driver app. You'll need a clear photo of the front and back of your driver's license, a photo of your vehicle's registration, and a photo of your proof of insurance. Uber also asks for a clear photo of the front and back of your vehicle.

Make sure all documents are current and legible. If Uber can't read the text or the document is expired, they'll ask you to resubmit. You can upload documents on your phone using the camera, or upload files from your computer. The app will tell you right away if the image quality is too low.

If you're using a vehicle registered to someone else in your household, you'll need to upload their registration and proof that they've added you as an authorized driver. Some states require a notarized form; others accept a letter from the registered owner. Uber will tell you what proof they need before you submit it.

State and local variations in requirements

Some cities and states have added their own rules on top of Uber's requirements. A few cities require Uber drivers to obtain a local permit or license, and some have set minimum insurance amounts that are higher than Uber's. A small number of places have age requirements higher than 18 — for example, some require drivers to be 21 or older.

Vehicle age limits also vary. Most places allow 2011 or newer, but some cities accept older vehicles, and a few require 2015 or newer. Before you start the signup process, search "Uber driver requirements [your city]" to see if your local government has added any rules.

If you drive in multiple cities or states, you may need to meet the strictest requirement of any place where you plan to work. For example, if you drive in both a city that requires 2011 or newer and a city that requires 2015 or newer, your vehicle must be 2015 or newer to drive in both places.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No. A suspended or revoked license disqualifies you when ready. A DUI or DWI conviction will also disqualify you in most cases, especially if it's recent. Uber's policy varies by state, but generally a DUI within the past seven years results in denial. If your conviction is older than that, you may be able to request a review.

What if my vehicle is financed or leased?

You can drive a financed or leased vehicle for Uber as long as the registration is in your name and your insurance covers rideshare driving. If the vehicle is leased, check your lease agreement — some leasing companies prohibit commercial use, including rideshare. Contact your lender or leasing company before you sign up to make sure you're allowed to use the vehicle this way.

Do I need a commercial driver's license?

No. A standard driver's license is sufficient for Uber. You do not need a commercial license unless you're driving a vehicle over a certain weight or in a specific category, which does not explore to most personal cars used for rideshare.

How long does the background check take?

Most background checks are completed within three to five business days. If there are issues on your record that need review, it may take one to two weeks. Uber will notify you by email once the check is complete and tell you whether you've been approved or denied.

Can I use someone else's car if they give me permission?

Yes, but the car must be registered in that person's name, and they must add you as an authorized driver on their insurance policy. You'll need to upload proof of that authorization during signup. The registered owner may also need to verify that they consent to you driving for Uber, depending on your state's requirements.