Minimum age to drive for Uber
You must be at least 18 years old to drive for Uber in the United States. Uber does not make exceptions to this rule, even if you hold a valid driver's license at a younger age. The 18-year minimum is a requirement Uber sets for all drivers on its platform, regardless of which city or state you drive in.
Some states and cities have their own rules about ride-sharing drivers that may be stricter than Uber's policy. For example, certain municipalities require drivers to be 21 or older. Before you sign up, check whether your local government has additional age requirements for commercial drivers or ride-sharing services.
Key Takeaways
- Uber requires all drivers to be at least 18 years old, with no exceptions based on state or local laws.
- Some cities and counties impose their own minimum age of 21 or higher for ride-sharing drivers, which would override Uber's 18-year policy.
- You will need a valid driver's license, proof of insurance, and a vehicle that meets Uber's standards, regardless of your age.
- Your vehicle must pass a background check and inspection before you can begin driving for Uber.
What you need besides meeting the age requirement
Turning 18 is only the first step. Uber also requires a valid driver's license that you have held for at least one year in most states. This means an 18-year-old with a brand-new license may not yet meet Uber's requirements, depending on when they received it.
You will need to provide proof of auto insurance that covers commercial use or ride-sharing. Standard personal auto insurance often does not cover driving for a ride-sharing service, so you may need to contact your insurance company or purchase a separate policy. Uber also offers insurance options, but you are responsible for having coverage in place before you start driving.
Your vehicle must be registered in your name and pass Uber's vehicle inspection. The car must be in good working condition, with no major damage, and meet age and mileage requirements that vary by city. Uber typically requires vehicles to be no more than 10 to 15 years old, though this varies by location and vehicle type.
How Uber verifies your age during signup
When you create an Uber driver account, you will enter your date of birth. Uber cross-checks this information against your driver's license during the verification process. You will need to upload a photo of your driver's license, and Uber's system confirms that the license is valid and that you meet the age requirement.
Uber also runs a background check as part of the signup process. This check includes verification of your identity and driving history. If there are discrepancies between your stated age and your license information, your account will not be activated until the issue is resolved.
Local age rules that may be stricter than Uber's policy
Several major cities have set their own minimum ages for ride-sharing drivers. New York City, for example, requires Uber drivers to be at least 21 years old. San Francisco and Los Angeles have similar rules. If you drive in a city with a higher age requirement, you must meet that city's standard, not just Uber's 18-year minimum.
Some cities also require ride-sharing drivers to hold a commercial driver's license or a special permit. Check your city's transportation department or taxi and limousine commission website to find out what rules explore where you live. These rules change periodically, so it is worth confirming the current requirements before you begin the signup process.
Insurance and liability at age 18
Insurance companies sometimes charge higher premiums for drivers under 25, and some may not offer ride-sharing coverage to drivers under 21. When you contact your insurance company about adding ride-sharing use to your policy, be prepared for the possibility that they will decline or offer coverage at a higher rate.
Uber's own insurance policy covers you while you are actively driving passengers, but it does not cover damage to your vehicle or injuries to you. Your personal auto insurance is the primary coverage, and Uber's policy fills gaps. At 18, you may find that your insurance costs are significantly higher than they would be for an older driver, which affects your earnings potential.
What happens if you misrepresent your age
Providing false information about your age during signup is grounds for when ready account deactivation. Uber's terms of service prohibit fraudulent information, and the company regularly audits driver accounts. If you are found to have lied about your age, you will not be able to reactivate your account with Uber.
Driving for Uber while underage also exposes you to legal liability. If you are involved in an accident and it is discovered that you did not meet the age requirement, your insurance claim could be denied, and you could face legal consequences depending on your local laws.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive for Uber at 17 if I have a valid driver's license?
No. Uber's minimum age requirement is 18, and the company does not make exceptions for drivers with valid licenses at younger ages. You must wait until your 18th birthday to sign up.
Do all cities require drivers to be 21?
No. Uber's standard requirement is 18, but some cities like New York, San Francisco, and Los Angeles require drivers to be 21. Check your local transportation or taxi commission website to see what your city requires.
Will my insurance cover me if I drive for Uber at 18?
Your personal auto insurance may not cover ride-sharing use. You will need to contact your insurance company to add ride-sharing coverage or purchase a separate policy. Some insurers charge higher rates for drivers under 25 or may decline coverage altogether.
What if I turn 18 tomorrow — can I sign up right away?
You can create an account on your 18th birthday, but Uber also requires that you have held your driver's license for at least one year in most states. If your license is newer than that, you may not meet all of Uber's requirements yet.
What documents do I need to prove my age when I sign up?
You will need to upload a photo of your valid driver's license. Uber's verification system checks that the license matches your stated date of birth and that it is currently valid.