Your car must meet Uber's age, condition, and registration requirements before you can start driving
Uber requires your vehicle to pass a vehicle inspection before you can accept rides. The inspection checks that your car is safe, has valid registration and insurance, and meets minimum standards for age and mileage. You cannot drive for Uber until this inspection is complete and approved.
The specific requirements depend on where you drive. Some cities and states have their own rules that are stricter than Uber's baseline standards. Your car must meet whichever standard is higher in your location.
Key Takeaways
- Your car must pass a vehicle inspection that verifies registration, insurance, and safety before Uber approves it for rides.
- Most cars must be 15 model years old or newer, though some cities allow older vehicles and some require newer ones.
- You need current auto insurance that covers commercial rideshare driving, not just personal use.
- The inspection happens through a third-party vendor Uber contracts with, and you schedule it yourself after you submit your vehicle information online.
Age and mileage limits for your vehicle
Uber's standard requirement is that your car be no more than 15 model years old. A 2009 model year car would meet this standard in 2024, for example. However, some cities and states set their own minimums — San Francisco, New York City, and Los Angeles all require newer vehicles, typically 2010 or later. A few markets allow cars up to 20 years old.
Mileage limits also vary by location. Uber's baseline is usually 200,000 miles, but some cities cap it at 150,000 miles or lower. When you enter your vehicle information in the Uber app, the system will tell you whether your specific car meets the requirements in your area.
The model year is what matters for the age requirement, not how long you have owned the car. A 2015 car is a 2015 car regardless of when you bought it.
Insurance requirements for rideshare driving
Your personal auto insurance policy does not cover you when you are driving for Uber. You need a separate commercial rideshare insurance policy, or an endorsement added to your personal policy that covers rideshare work. Standard personal policies explicitly exclude commercial use.
Uber provides some coverage during rides, but only after a passenger is in your car. The coverage gap — the time between when you accept a ride and when the passenger gets in — is your responsibility. Most rideshare insurance policies cover this gap.
You must show proof of insurance during the vehicle inspection. The policy must be active and current. Some insurance companies offer rideshare endorsements for $10 to $30 per month; others require a separate policy. Check with your current insurer first, then compare quotes from companies that specialize in rideshare coverage if your insurer does not offer it.
Registration, title, and ownership documents
Your vehicle registration must be current and match the state where you plan to drive. Uber will ask for a photo of your registration during the inspection process. If your registration is expired or will expire within 60 days, you cannot pass inspection.
The vehicle must be registered in your name or in the name of someone who lives with you. If the car is registered to a business, a family member who does not live with you, or a rental company, you will need additional documentation. Uber may ask for a notarized letter of permission from the registered owner.
You will also need the vehicle title or proof of ownership. If you are still paying off a loan, the lender's name will appear on the title — this is normal and does not disqualify you.
Safety and mechanical inspection standards
The third-party inspection company checks that your car is safe to carry passengers. They inspect the exterior for major damage, dents, or rust that affects safety. The interior must be clean and free of major tears or stains. All windows must be intact, and windshield damage cannot obstruct the driver's view.
The inspection also verifies that your lights work — headlights, brake lights, turn signals, and interior lights. Your tires must have adequate tread and no bulges or damage. The horn, wipers, and mirrors must all function. Brakes and steering must work properly.
You do not need a mechanic's report or emissions test for Uber's inspection, though your state may require these separately for registration. The Uber inspection is a visual and functional check, not a full diagnostic.
How the inspection process works
After you submit your vehicle information in the Uber app, you will receive an email with instructions to schedule an inspection. Uber contracts with third-party inspection vendors in your area — the vendor name and location depend on where you live. You book an appointment directly with that vendor, usually through their website or by phone.
The inspection typically takes 15 to 30 minutes. You drive to the inspection location, a technician walks around and inside your car, takes photos, and runs through a checklist. If your car passes, the inspection is uploaded to Uber within a few hours or the next business day. If it fails, the vendor will tell you what needs to be fixed and you can reschedule after repairs are complete.
You pay for the inspection yourself. The cost varies by location but is typically $10 to $50. Some vendors charge a flat fee; others charge per inspection attempt.
What happens if your car fails inspection
If your car does not pass, the inspection report will list the specific issues. Common failures include expired registration, missing or broken lights, low tire tread, cracked windshield, or interior damage. You have the option to fix the problems and reschedule the inspection.
If the issues are major — such as the car being too old or having too many miles — you will not be able to drive for Uber in that location with that vehicle. You would need a different car that meets the requirements.
There is no limit to how many times you can reschedule and retake the inspection, as long as you fix the issues that caused the failure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a car that is registered to someone else?
Only if that person lives with you and the registration is in their name. If the car belongs to a family member who lives elsewhere, a friend, or a rental company, you will need written permission from the registered owner, usually notarized. Uber may deny your request even with permission if the owner cannot be verified.
Do I need a commercial driver's license to drive for Uber?
No. A standard driver's license is sufficient in most places. Some cities require a commercial license or a special rideshare permit, but this is separate from Uber's vehicle requirements. Check your local city or county rules before you start the inspection process.
What if my car is financed and the lender's name is on the title?
That is normal and does not disqualify you. Uber only requires that the car be registered in your name or the name of someone you live with. The lender's name on the title does not change this. You still need to show proof of ownership during inspection.
Can I use a rental car or a car-sharing service vehicle?
No. Uber requires that you own or co-own the vehicle. Rental cars and car-sharing vehicles are not permitted because the insurance and liability structure does not work with Uber's requirements. You must use a car registered in your name or a household member's name.
How often do I need to pass inspection again?
Uber requires a vehicle inspection once per year. You will receive a notification when your inspection is about to expire, and you will need to reschedule with the same vendor or a different one in your area to renew it.