What you need before you start the Uber driver process
To drive for Uber, you must meet several requirements before you can begin. You need a valid driver's license, proof of vehicle insurance, and a vehicle that meets Uber's age and condition standards. You also need a Social Security number, a bank account for deposits, and a phone with the Uber Driver app installed. Uber will run a background check, which takes several days to a few weeks depending on your state.
Your vehicle must be at least 2010 or newer for most Uber services, though some cities allow older cars for Uber Eats delivery only. The car needs to pass a vehicle inspection — either through Uber's partner inspection network or at a third-party location — and you must provide proof of current registration and insurance. Insurance requirements vary by state; some states require commercial rideshare coverage, while others allow personal policies that cover rideshare driving.
You'll also need a valid phone number and email address that you control, since Uber uses these to contact you and send earnings statements. Some cities require additional documents like a local business license or vehicle inspection certificate from the Department of Motor Vehicles.
Key Takeaways
- Your driver's license, vehicle insurance, and vehicle registration must all be current and in your name or you must have written permission from the vehicle owner.
- Uber runs a background check that typically takes several days to a few weeks, and you cannot drive until it clears.
- Your vehicle must pass an inspection through Uber's network or a third-party location before you can turn on the app.
- Some states and cities require commercial rideshare insurance or local permits, so check your local rules before you begin the process.
- Once approved, you can start accepting rides when ready, but Uber may place restrictions on your account if your ratings or cancellation rate falls below certain thresholds.
Documents and information Uber will ask for
When you create your Uber driver account, you'll upload documents directly through the app. Uber asks for a photo of your driver's license (front and back), a photo of your vehicle registration, and a photo of your proof of insurance. You'll also provide your Social Security number, date of birth, and address. Have these documents ready before you start; the process moves faster if you don't have to stop and find them.
Uber will ask you to take a selfie during the process so they can match it to your driver's license photo. Make sure the photo is clear, well-lit, and shows your face straight-on. If the app rejects your photo, try again in natural light without sunglasses or hats.
You'll need to link a bank account where Uber will deposit your earnings. This account should be in your name. Uber typically deposits earnings weekly, usually on Tuesday or Wednesday depending on your location.
The vehicle inspection and approval process
After you submit your documents, Uber will send you a link to schedule a vehicle inspection. You can choose to inspect through Uber's partner network (often local inspection shops or car washes) or through a third-party inspector. The inspection checks that your vehicle has working lights, brakes, wipers, and mirrors, and that the interior is clean and free of major damage. The inspection typically costs between $20 and $50 depending on your location and which provider you use.
You'll receive the inspection results within a few days. If your vehicle passes, Uber will notify you through the app. If it fails, you'll see which items need to be fixed. Common failures are broken tail lights, worn tires, or interior damage. Once you fix the issues, you can schedule another inspection at no additional cost within a certain timeframe.
Some cities allow you to inspect your vehicle at a Department of Motor Vehicles location instead of through Uber's network. Check the app to see which options are available in your area.
Background check requirements and timeline
Uber runs a background check through a third-party company, usually Checkr or similar services. The check looks at your driving record, criminal history, and sex offender registry. The process typically takes 3 to 10 business days, though it can take longer if there are delays in obtaining records from your state or if Uber needs to review something in your history.
You'll receive updates through the app as your background check progresses. If Uber approves you, you'll see a notification that you're cleared to drive. If there's an issue, Uber will tell you what they found and whether you can dispute it. You have the right to see what the background check company found about you and to correct any errors before Uber makes a final decision.
Uber's background check standards vary slightly by state because state laws differ. Some states allow people with certain criminal convictions to drive for Uber after a waiting period; others do not. Check Uber's website for your specific state's rules if you have concerns about your history.
Insurance and local permit requirements by location
Insurance rules for rideshare drivers differ by state and sometimes by city. Some states require you to carry commercial rideshare insurance, which covers you while you're logged into the Uber app and waiting for or completing rides. Other states allow personal auto insurance that includes rideshare coverage. A few states have no specific requirement but recommend commercial coverage.
Uber provides contingent liability coverage in most states, which means Uber's insurance covers you if you're in an accident while actively on a ride. However, this coverage often has gaps — for example, it may not cover you while you're logged in but waiting for a ride request. Check your state's insurance rules and talk to your insurance company about what coverage you need before you drive.
Some cities require rideshare drivers to obtain a local business license or vehicle permit. Cities like San Francisco, New York, and Los Angeles have specific rules. Check your city or county government website or contact the Department of Motor Vehicles to find out what's required where you live.
How to complete your profile and start driving
Once your background check clears and your vehicle passes inspection, Uber will notify you through the app that you're cleared to drive. At this point, you can open the Driver app, turn on your availability, and start accepting ride requests. Your first rides may come slowly as Uber's algorithm learns your preferences and as you build ratings from passengers.
Before you accept your first ride, set up your payment method and review Uber's driver policies. You can choose to receive earnings weekly via direct deposit or through when ready Pay (a feature that lets you cash out daily, though it usually charges a small fee). Make sure your bank account information is correct so deposits go through without delay.
Uber tracks your ratings and cancellation rate from day one. Passengers rate you after each ride on a scale of 1 to 5 stars. If your rating falls below 4.6 stars in most cities, Uber may deactivate your account. Similarly, if you cancel too many ride requests after accepting them, Uber may restrict your access to the app. Drive carefully, keep your car clean, and communicate clearly with passengers to maintain good ratings.
What happens after you're approved and active
Once you're driving, Uber sends you ride requests through the app. You have a few seconds to accept or decline each request. The app shows you the pickup location, the passenger's rating, and the estimated fare before you accept. You can see the dropoff location after you accept the ride.
Earnings appear in your Driver app in real time. You can see how much you've earned each day and each week. Uber takes a percentage of each fare (the percentage varies by city and service type), and you keep the rest plus tips. Tips are added to your earnings separately and are always yours to keep.
Uber may periodically review your account. If your rating drops, you receive a warning. If you're involved in an accident or a passenger reports a problem, Uber may investigate. You can contact Uber support through the app if you have questions about a ride, a rating, or your account status.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need commercial insurance to drive for Uber?
It depends on your state. Some states require commercial rideshare insurance, while others allow personal insurance with rideshare coverage. Check your state's insurance rules and contact your insurance company to confirm what you need. Uber provides contingent liability coverage, but it may not cover all situations, so personal or commercial coverage is important.
How long does the background check take?
Background checks typically take 3 to 10 business days, though they can take longer if there are delays in obtaining records from your state. You'll see updates in the app as the check progresses. If there's an issue, Uber will notify you and explain what they found.
What if my vehicle is older than 2010?
Most Uber services require vehicles from 2010 or newer. However, some cities allow older vehicles for Uber Eats delivery only. Check the Uber app in your area to see which services accept older vehicles. If your car doesn't meet the age requirement, you cannot drive for Uber in your city.
Can I drive for Uber if I own the vehicle but someone else's name is on the title?
No. The vehicle must be registered in your name, or you must have written permission from the registered owner. If someone else owns the car, you'll need a notarized letter from them saying you have permission to use it for rideshare driving. Uber will ask to see this letter during the process.
What happens if my rating drops below 4.6 stars?
If your rating falls below the minimum threshold in your city (usually 4.6 stars), Uber will send you a warning. If it continues to drop, Uber may deactivate your account. You can improve your rating by driving safely, keeping your car clean, being polite to passengers, and addressing any issues that come up during rides.