What You Need to Start an Uber Driver Account

To drive for Uber, you need a smartphone with the Uber Driver app, a valid driver's license, proof of vehicle registration, and proof of insurance. Uber also requires a background check, which takes a few days to complete. You'll create an account on the Uber website or through the app by entering your email, phone number, and password.

The vehicle itself must meet Uber's requirements: it typically needs to be at least four doors, in good condition, and pass a vehicle inspection. Some cities have additional rules about the car's age or mileage. You'll upload photos of your vehicle from multiple angles during signup, and Uber may ask you to visit an inspection center to verify the car in person.

You'll also need to provide your Social Security number, date of birth, and address so Uber can run the background check. This check looks at your driving record and criminal history. The timeline varies, but most people hear back within three to five business days.

Key Takeaways

  • Your account requires a smartphone, valid driver's license, vehicle registration, insurance, and a clean background check before you can start driving.
  • The vehicle must be at least four doors and meet Uber's condition standards, which vary by city and may include age or mileage limits.
  • You upload vehicle photos and your personal documents during signup, and Uber may require an in-person inspection at a local center.
  • The background check typically takes three to five business days, and you cannot drive until it clears.
  • Once approved, you log into the Driver app, go online, and accept ride requests from passengers in your area.

Documents You'll Upload During Signup

Uber asks for specific documents at different stages of account creation. You'll start with your driver's license, which Uber scans to verify your identity and driving record. Next comes your vehicle registration, which proves you own or lease the car. Then you'll upload proof of insurance — a photo of your insurance card or a document from your insurance company showing your name, vehicle, and coverage dates.

You'll also take photos of your vehicle: the front, back, left side, right side, and interior. These photos help Uber confirm the car matches what you described and is in roadworthy condition. Make sure the photos are clear and taken in good lighting so Uber doesn't reject them and ask you to resubmit.

Some cities require additional documents, such as a commercial driver's license, a vehicle inspection certificate, or proof of local registration. Uber will tell you during signup if your city has extra requirements. If you're missing a document, you can't move forward until you provide it.

How the Background Check Works

Uber uses a third-party company to conduct your background check. The check includes your driving record from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles and a criminal history search. Uber looks for serious traffic violations, DUIs, reckless driving convictions, and felonies. The exact standards vary by city, but Uber publishes its background check policy on its website so you can see what disqualifies a driver.

The background check is not when ready. After you submit your documents, Uber sends them to the background check company, which can take several days to process. You'll see a status in your account that says "pending," "approved," or "denied." If you're denied, Uber will tell you why and may give you the option to dispute the finding if you believe it's incorrect.

If your background check is approved, you'll receive an email confirming that you're cleared to drive. At that point, you can log into the Driver app and start accepting rides. If you're denied, you can contact Uber support to understand the reason and ask about next steps.

Logging In and Going Online for Rides

Once your account is approved, read the Uber Driver app on your smartphone. Log in with the email and password you created during signup. The app shows a map of your area with ride requests appearing in real time. When a passenger requests a ride, you'll see their pickup location, destination, and the fare estimate.

To start receiving ride requests, tap the "Go Online" button in the app. You'll only see requests in areas where Uber operates and where you're currently located. You can go offline at any time by tapping the same button, which stops new requests from coming through. Many drivers go online during peak hours — mornings, evenings, and weekends — when more passengers are requesting rides.

The app tracks your location while you're online, so Uber can match you with nearby passengers. You can see the passenger's name, rating, and pickup location before you accept the ride. After you accept, the app gives you turn-by-turn directions to the pickup spot and then to the destination.

Payment and Earnings in Your Driver Account

Uber deposits your earnings directly into the bank account you link to your driver account. You set this up during signup by providing your routing number and account number. Earnings are typically transferred once a week, usually on a set day like Tuesday or Wednesday, though the exact day depends on your bank and location.

Your earnings come from passenger fares minus Uber's commission. Uber takes a percentage of each ride — the amount varies by city and type of service (UberX, Uber Eats, etc.). You can see the breakdown of each ride in your app: the fare, Uber's cut, and your earnings. Tips that passengers add in the app are paid to you in full.

You can also see your total earnings for the week, month, or any date range by opening the "Earnings" tab in the Driver app. This shows how much you've made, how many rides you've completed, and how many hours you've been online. Some drivers use this information to figure out which times of day are most profitable.

Account Settings and Safety Features

Your driver account has settings you can adjust to control how you work. You can set your preferred vehicle type, choose which services you want to offer (rides only, food delivery, or both), and manage your availability. Some drivers set a maximum distance they're willing to drive or turn off requests during certain hours.

Uber includes safety features in the Driver app. You can share your trip details with a trusted contact, and Uber records audio during rides if you turn on the safety feature. The app also has a button to contact Uber support when ready if you feel unsafe. Your rating appears in your account — passengers rate you after each ride, and your average rating is visible to future passengers.

You can also view your account history, including past rides, earnings, and any messages from Uber support. If Uber needs to contact you about your account, you'll see a notification in the app or receive an email. It's important to check these regularly in case Uber has questions about your documents or driving record.

What Happens If Your Account Is Deactivated

Uber can deactivate your driver account if you violate its community guidelines. Common reasons include a low passenger rating, traffic violations, complaints about vehicle condition, or canceling too many rides. Uber will send you a warning or notification before deactivating your account in most cases, though serious violations can result in when ready deactivation.

If your account is deactivated, you'll receive an email explaining the reason. You can contact Uber support to appeal the decision or ask what you need to do to reactivate your account. Some deactivations are temporary — for example, if your insurance lapses, you can reactivate once you upload a new insurance document. Others are permanent.

You can also choose to deactivate your own account at any time through the app settings. This stops you from receiving ride requests, but you can reactivate later if you want to drive again. Your earnings history and ratings remain in your account even if it's inactive.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get approved as an Uber driver?

Most people are approved within three to five business days after submitting all required documents. The background check is the main factor — it takes a few days for the third-party company to process. If Uber asks you to visit an inspection center or resubmit photos, the timeline may be longer.

Can I drive for Uber with a rental car?

Yes, but the rental agreement must allow commercial use (driving for a rideshare service). You'll need to upload the rental agreement along with your other documents. Some rental companies charge extra for commercial use or don't allow it at all, so check with your rental company first.

What if I don't pass the background check?

Uber will tell you the reason you were denied. You can contact Uber support to dispute the finding if you believe it's incorrect — for example, if the background check company confused you with someone else. If the denial is accurate, you may not be able to drive for Uber, depending on what disqualified you.

How do I change my bank account for earnings deposits?

Go to your account settings in the Driver app, find the "Payment" or "Earnings" section, and update your bank information. Changes usually take effect within a few days. Make sure you enter your routing number and account number correctly so deposits go to the right place.

Can I have multiple Uber driver accounts?

No, Uber only allows one active driver account per person. If you try to create a second account with the same phone number or email, Uber will link it to your existing account. Using multiple accounts to avoid deactivation or hide violations violates Uber's terms and can result in permanent deactivation.