You must be at least 18 years old to drive for Uber in the United States, but most cities also require you to be 21 or older, and Uber's own insurance rules often push that minimum higher depending on your location and vehicle type.
The age you need to be varies by where you drive. Federal law sets 18 as the minimum to hold a commercial driver's license in most states, but Uber's requirements and your local regulations may demand you be older. Some cities have their own rules about ride-share drivers that go beyond what Uber requires. Your insurance status also matters — Uber provides coverage during rides, but the specifics of that coverage can depend on your age and driving history.
Before you start the sign-up process, check what your city or county requires. A city ordinance can set a higher age floor than Uber does, and you cannot drive legally in that city below that age, even if Uber's app would let you create an account. The same applies to your state's regulations on commercial transportation.
Key Takeaways
- Uber's minimum age is 18 in most of the United States, but your city or county may require you to be 21 or older.
- Your state's transportation or taxi licensing rules may set an age requirement that is higher than Uber's own policy.
- Drivers under 25 often face higher insurance costs or stricter coverage limits through Uber's insurance program.
- You will need a valid driver's license, a vehicle that meets Uber's safety standards, and proof of insurance before you can drive.
Age requirements that vary by city and state
Uber's baseline policy is 18 years old, but that is not the only rule you face. Many cities — including New York City, Los Angeles, and San Francisco — require ride-share drivers to be 21 or older. Some cities set the bar at 25. These local rules exist because cities regulate taxi and ride-share services through their own licensing systems, and they can impose stricter standards than a private company does.
Your state may also have rules. Some states treat ride-share driving as a form of commercial transportation and set their own age minimums through the Department of Transportation or a similar body. You need to meet both Uber's requirement and your state's and city's requirements — whichever is highest.
To find out what applies where you live, contact your city's transportation department or taxi and limousine commission. They can tell you the exact age requirement for your area. Uber's website lists some city rules, but it is not exhaustive, so calling your local authority is the fastest way to get a definitive answer.
Insurance and age-related restrictions
Uber provides insurance coverage while you are actively driving a passenger, but the terms of that coverage can shift based on your age and driving record. Drivers under 25 are statistically more likely to be in accidents, so Uber's insurance partners sometimes impose higher deductibles or exclude certain types of claims for younger drivers.
You will also need your own personal auto insurance. Most personal policies do not cover commercial driving, so you will need to either switch to a commercial policy or add a ride-share endorsement. Insurance companies often charge more for drivers under 25, regardless of their driving history. Some insurers will not insure ride-share drivers under 21 at all.
Before you sign up with Uber, call your insurance company and ask whether they cover ride-share driving and what the cost is. This step can save you from discovering later that you cannot legally drive because your insurance does not cover commercial use.
What you need to have ready before you sign up
Beyond age, Uber requires a valid driver's license, proof of vehicle insurance, and a vehicle that passes their safety inspection. The vehicle must be at least 2010 or newer in most cities (older in some), have four doors, and pass a background check on its history. You will also need a Social Security number and a bank account for deposits.
Uber will run a background check on you, which includes your driving record and any criminal history. The specifics of what disqualifies you vary by city, but serious violations, DUIs, or recent accidents can prevent you from being approved. You can ask Uber about your specific situation before you submit your full process.
What happens if you are under the local age requirement
If you are below your city's minimum age, you cannot legally drive for Uber in that city, even if you meet Uber's own 18-year-old minimum. Uber's app may allow you to create an account, but you will not pass the local background check and approval process. Driving without meeting local requirements can result in fines, your vehicle being impounded, or both.
Some drivers have tried to work around local age rules by signing up in a nearby city with a lower minimum, then driving in their home city. This is illegal and can result in criminal charges for operating without a license. Your best option is to wait until you meet your local age requirement or move to a location with a lower minimum.
How age affects your earnings and deactivation
Your age does not directly change how much Uber pays per ride, but it can affect your insurance costs and your ability to maintain an account. Drivers with accidents or violations are more likely to be deactivated, and younger drivers statistically have higher accident rates. Staying deactivated means you lose access to the platform.
Uber also periodically reviews driver accounts and may deactivate you if your driving record worsens or if you fall below their insurance standards. Younger drivers should be especially careful about traffic violations and accidents, because they can end your ability to drive for the platform.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive for Uber at 18 if my city requires drivers to be 21?
No. Your city's requirement overrides Uber's policy. You must meet the age requirement set by your local government, even if Uber's app would let you sign up. Driving without meeting local rules is illegal.
Does Uber check my age before I start driving?
Yes. Uber verifies your age during the sign-up process using your driver's license and background check. They also verify that you meet your city's specific age requirement. If you do not meet the local minimum, your process will be rejected.
What if I turn 21 while I am already driving for Uber?
Your account will not be affected. Age requirements explore at the time you sign up. If you were 18 and met all requirements when you started, you can continue driving after you turn 21. However, your insurance terms may change, so contact your insurance company to confirm coverage.
Can I drive for Uber if I have a learner's permit instead of a full license?
No. Uber requires a valid, unrestricted driver's license. A learner's permit is not sufficient, and you would not be insured under Uber's coverage while driving on a permit.
How do I find out my city's age requirement?
Contact your city's transportation department, taxi and limousine commission, or ride-share licensing office. They can tell you the exact age minimum for your area. You can also check your city's website or call 311 in many cities to be directed to the right department.