The Basic Requirements to Drive for Uber Eats

To drive for Uber Eats, you need to be at least 19 years old, have a valid driver's license, proof of insurance, and a vehicle registered in your name. You'll also need a smartphone with the Uber Driver app, a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number, and a valid bank account for deposits. Uber runs a background check on every applicant, which typically takes three to five business days.

Your vehicle must pass a vehicle inspection before you can start accepting deliveries. The inspection checks that your car is safe to drive — working brakes, lights, wipers, and tires with adequate tread. You can have the inspection done at any certified mechanic or at certain Uber-affiliated locations, depending on your area. The cost varies but is usually between $20 and $50.

Key Takeaways

  • You must be at least 19 years old with a valid driver's license, proof of insurance, and a vehicle registered in your name.
  • Your vehicle will need to pass a safety inspection that checks brakes, lights, wipers, and tire condition before you can start.
  • Uber runs a background check that typically takes three to five business days, and you cannot drive during this period.
  • You need a smartphone, a valid bank account, and either a Social Security number or ITIN to complete your account setup.
  • Some states and cities have additional requirements, such as commercial insurance or local permits, that you should check before starting.

Documents You'll Need to Provide

When you sign up, Uber will ask you to upload several documents through the app. You'll need a photo of your driver's license (front and back), a photo of your vehicle registration, and proof of insurance. The insurance must list you as the driver and cover the vehicle you plan to use for deliveries. Personal auto insurance may not cover commercial driving, so check your policy or contact your insurance company before you start.

You'll also need to provide your Social Security number or ITIN, which Uber uses to verify your identity and run the background check. If you're a non-citizen with work authorization, an ITIN works in place of a Social Security number. Have these documents ready before you start the sign-up process — uploading them as you go makes the process faster.

The Background Check and What It Covers

Uber checks your driving record, criminal history, and sex offender registry as part of the background check. The company looks for serious traffic violations, DUIs, reckless driving convictions, and felonies. A single minor traffic ticket will not disqualify you, but multiple violations or a recent DUI will. The exact rules vary by state and city, so Uber may reject an applicant in one city but not another.

The background check is run by a third-party company, not by Uber directly. Once you submit your documents, you cannot drive until the check is complete. If Uber denies your account, you can contact Uber support to ask why and whether you can reapply later. Some rejections are permanent, but others may be reconsidered after a certain amount of time has passed.

Vehicle Requirements and the Inspection Process

Your vehicle must be at least 20 model years old (this means a 2004 or newer if you're explore in 2024, though the year changes annually). The car must have four doors, working air conditioning and heating, and no major damage to the body. Uber does not allow vehicles with salvage titles or those that have been declared a total loss by an insurance company.

To schedule the inspection, you'll receive a link in the Uber Driver app after your background check clears. You can choose from approved inspection locations in your area, or in some cities you can have a mobile inspector come to you. Bring your vehicle registration and proof of insurance to the inspection. The inspector will check that your lights, wipers, brakes, horn, and tires all work and meet safety standards. If your vehicle fails, you can fix the issues and reschedule the inspection at no additional cost.

State and Local Requirements That May explore

Some states and cities require additional steps before you can drive for Uber Eats. California, for example, has specific insurance requirements for app-based drivers, and some cities require you to obtain a local business permit or commercial driver's license. A few jurisdictions also require a background check through the local police department in addition to Uber's check. Check your state's Department of Motor Vehicles website and your city or county government website to see what applies to you.

Insurance is the most common additional requirement. Many states allow personal auto insurance to cover food delivery, but others require commercial coverage or a specific rideshare endorsement. Contact your insurance company and ask whether your current policy covers app-based delivery driving. If it does not, you may need to switch providers or add coverage before Uber will let you start.

What Happens After You're Approved

Once your background check clears and your vehicle passes inspection, you can turn on the Uber Driver app and start accepting delivery orders. Your first few orders may come slowly as the app learns your preferences and availability. You set your own hours and can pause the app whenever you want — there is no minimum number of hours you must work.

You'll be paid per delivery, with the amount depending on distance, time, and demand in your area. Uber deposits your earnings into your bank account weekly, usually on Tuesday or Wednesday. You're responsible for tracking your mileage and expenses for tax purposes, as Uber does not withhold taxes from your payments.

Common Reasons Applications Get Denied

The most common reason for denial is a failed background check — usually due to a recent DUI, multiple traffic violations, or a felony conviction. Vehicle-related denials happen when the car is too old, has a salvage title, or fails the safety inspection. Some applicants are denied because their insurance does not cover commercial delivery driving, or because they don't have proof of insurance at all.

Age is another factor: you must be at least 19 to drive for Uber Eats (some markets require 21). If you're denied, Uber will send you an email explaining the reason. If the reason is something you can fix — like adding insurance or repairing your vehicle — you can reapply once the issue is resolved. If the reason is a background check issue, you may need to wait a certain amount of time before reapplying, depending on what Uber found.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a commercial driver's license to deliver for Uber Eats?

No, a regular driver's license is sufficient in most states. A few states or cities may require a commercial license for delivery drivers, so check your local requirements. Your state's DMV website will have this information.

Can I use someone else's car to deliver for Uber Eats?

No, the vehicle must be registered in your name. Uber verifies this during the sign-up process. If you want to use a different car later, you'll need to add it to your account and have it pass inspection.

What if I have a minor traffic violation on my record?

A single minor ticket, such as a speeding violation, will not automatically disqualify you. Uber looks at the overall pattern of your driving record. Multiple violations or serious offenses like DUI are more likely to result in denial.

How long does the entire sign-up process take?

The background check takes three to five business days. The vehicle inspection can usually be scheduled within a few days. In total, you can expect to wait one to two weeks from the time you submit your documents until you're ready to start driving.

Can I reapply if Uber denies my account?

It depends on the reason for denial. If it's a vehicle issue or insurance problem, you can reapply once you've fixed it. If it's a background check issue, you may need to wait several months or longer before reapplying, depending on what Uber found.