The Basic Requirements Uber Sets for All Drivers
To drive for Uber, you must be at least 18 years old, have a valid driver's license, and own or have regular access to a vehicle that meets Uber's standards. Uber will run a background check on you, which includes a review of your driving record and criminal history. You'll also need a valid Social Security number, a phone number, and an email address to set up your account.
Your vehicle must be registered in your name or in the name of someone who lives with you. The car needs to be insured with a policy that covers commercial rideshare driving — your personal auto insurance typically does not. Uber requires that your vehicle pass a vehicle inspection, which checks things like brakes, lights, tires, and overall safety. The inspection must be completed at an approved inspection location, and you'll need to provide photos of your car's exterior and interior.
Key Takeaways
- You must be at least 18 years old with a valid driver's license and a vehicle registered in your name or a household member's name.
- Your vehicle insurance must specifically cover rideshare driving, not just personal use.
- Uber runs a background check that includes your driving record and criminal history, and you must pass a vehicle safety inspection.
- You need a valid Social Security number, phone number, and email address to create and maintain your Uber driver account.
- Vehicle age and mileage limits vary by city and vehicle type, so check Uber's requirements for your specific location.
Vehicle Age, Mileage, and Condition Standards
Uber sets minimum standards for how old your car can be and how many miles it can have on it. These limits vary by city and by the type of Uber service you want to drive for. For UberX (the standard service), most cities require your vehicle to be no more than 10 to 15 years old, though some cities allow older cars. Mileage limits also vary — some cities cap it at 200,000 miles, while others allow higher mileage.
Your car must be in good working condition with no major dents, rust, or interior damage. Uber inspectors look at the seats, carpets, headliner, and dashboard to make sure they're clean and not torn. If your vehicle fails inspection, you'll be told what needs to be fixed. You can then schedule a new inspection once repairs are complete. Check your local Uber requirements before you start, because a car that qualifies in one city might not in another.
Background Check and Driving Record Standards
Uber's background check looks at your criminal history, driving record, and sex offender registry status. The company uses a third-party screening service to pull this information. You will be disqualified if you have certain felonies on your record, a history of violent crimes, or sexual offenses. Uber also checks for drug-related convictions, though the specific rules vary by state and by how recent the conviction is.
Your driving record matters significantly. If you have too many traffic violations, at-fault accidents, or moving violations in the past three to seven years, Uber may deny your process. A single speeding ticket usually won't disqualify you, but multiple violations or serious infractions like DUIs will. Uber does not publish exact thresholds — the decision depends on the severity and recency of violations and your location. If you're unsure whether your record will pass, you can contact Uber support before you formally submit your process.
Insurance Requirements for Rideshare Drivers
Standard personal auto insurance does not cover you when you're driving passengers for money. You must have a rideshare insurance policy or an endorsement added to your existing policy that covers commercial driving. Some insurance companies offer rideshare coverage as an add-on; others require you to switch to a commercial policy. The cost varies widely depending on your insurer, location, and driving history.
Uber provides some insurance coverage while you're actively driving passengers, but it does not replace your own policy — it fills gaps. Your personal insurance is your first line of coverage, and Uber's coverage kicks in only when your own policy doesn't explore. You must show proof of insurance during the vehicle inspection and keep your policy active at all times. If your insurance lapses, your Uber account will be deactivated until you provide updated proof of coverage.
The Vehicle Inspection Process
Once you've gathered your documents and your vehicle meets the basic standards, you'll schedule a vehicle inspection at an Uber-approved location. During the inspection, a technician will check your brakes, tires, lights, wipers, horn, seat belts, and overall safety features. They'll also inspect the interior for cleanliness and damage and take photos of your car from multiple angles. The inspection typically takes 30 to 60 minutes.
You'll need to bring your vehicle registration, proof of insurance, and a valid ID to the inspection. After the inspection is complete, you'll receive a report. If your vehicle passes, you can move forward with activating your driver account. If it fails, the report will list what needs to be repaired. Once you've made the repairs, you can schedule another inspection. There is usually a fee for the inspection, which varies by location and inspection provider.
Documents and Information You'll Need to Provide
Uber will ask you to upload several documents through the app or website. You'll need a clear photo of your driver's license (front and back), a photo of your vehicle registration, and proof of insurance. You'll also need to provide your Social Security number for tax purposes and background check verification. Some cities require additional documents, such as a commercial driver's license or a local business permit.
Make sure all documents are current and match the name on your Uber account. If your name on your driver's license doesn't match your insurance or registration, you'll need to update those documents before Uber will let you drive. Keep digital copies of everything in case you need to resubmit or update them later. Uber may ask for updated documents periodically, especially if your insurance or registration is about to expire.
How Long the Approval Process Takes
After you submit all your documents and pass the vehicle inspection, Uber typically reviews your process within a few days to a week. The background check can take several days to complete. Once everything is approved, you can start driving, though some cities have additional waiting periods or requirements. In rare cases, if Uber needs more information or if there's an issue with your background check, the process can take longer.
You'll receive notifications through the Uber app as your process moves through each stage. If there's a problem — such as a document that's unclear or a vehicle inspection that failed — Uber will let you know what you need to fix. The sooner you address any issues, the sooner you can start driving. Some cities have high demand for drivers and may fast-track applications, while others may have a longer queue.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a commercial driver's license to drive for Uber?
No, a standard driver's license is sufficient for UberX and most Uber services. However, some cities or states may have specific requirements, and Uber Eats (delivery only) has different rules than passenger services. Check your local requirements before you start the process.
What happens if my vehicle fails inspection?
Uber will provide a detailed report of what failed. You can take your vehicle to a mechanic to have the issues fixed, then schedule a new inspection. You won't be able to drive until your vehicle passes, but you can resubmit as many times as needed.
Can I use a vehicle that's financed or leased?
Yes, as long as the vehicle is registered in your name or in the name of someone in your household. If the car is leased, check your lease agreement first — some leasing companies prohibit commercial use like rideshare driving.
What if I have a minor traffic violation on my record?
A single minor violation like a speeding ticket usually won't disqualify you. Uber looks at the overall pattern of your driving history. Multiple violations or serious infractions like DUIs are more likely to result in denial.
Do I need to have my own insurance before I start the Uber process?
Yes. You must have rideshare insurance or an endorsement in place before your vehicle inspection. Uber will ask for proof of insurance, and you won't be able to drive without it.