What Uber requires before you can start driving

Uber requires you to be at least 18 years old, have a valid driver's license, proof of insurance, and a vehicle that meets their standards. You also need to pass a background check and provide documents that verify your identity and driving history. The exact requirements vary slightly by state and city, but these core items are the same everywhere Uber operates.

The process takes about one to two weeks from the time you submit your documents until you receive approval to start accepting rides. Some cities have additional local rules — for example, certain areas require a commercial driver's license or a specific type of vehicle inspection. Before you start gathering documents, check Uber's requirements page for your specific city, because missing one document means your process will be delayed.

Key Takeaways

  • You must be at least 18 years old with a valid driver's license, proof of insurance, and a vehicle registered in your name or with written permission from the owner.
  • Uber runs a background check that looks at your driving record and criminal history; you cannot drive if you have certain convictions or more than a few moving violations in the past seven years.
  • Your vehicle must be at least four years old (or newer, depending on your city), have four doors, and pass a vehicle inspection that Uber arranges or that you complete yourself.
  • You will need to upload photos of your driver's license, proof of insurance, vehicle registration, and sometimes a vehicle inspection report through the Uber app.
  • Local requirements vary by city — some areas require a commercial license, a specific inspection, or proof of local registration, so check your city's rules before you explore.

Driver's license and age requirements

You must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid driver's license issued by your state. Your license cannot be suspended, revoked, or expired. Uber will verify your license number against your state's Department of Motor Vehicles records, so make sure the information you enter matches exactly what appears on your license.

If you have a learner's permit or a temporary license, you cannot drive for Uber. You need a full, unrestricted license. If your license is currently suspended or revoked, you must wait until it is reinstated and then explore. Uber will not process your process while your license is invalid.

Insurance and vehicle registration

You must carry active auto insurance that covers rideshare driving. Standard personal auto insurance often does not cover commercial activity like Uber, so contact your insurance company and ask whether your policy covers rideshare or whether you need to add a rideshare endorsement. Some insurance companies offer separate rideshare policies that cost less than a full commercial policy.

Your vehicle must be registered in your name, or you must have written permission from the registered owner to use it for Uber. If someone else owns the car, you will need to upload a signed document from them saying you have permission to drive it for Uber. The registration must be current and valid in your state.

Vehicle age and condition standards

Your vehicle must meet Uber's age and condition requirements. In most cities, your car must be four years old or newer, though some cities allow vehicles up to five or six years old. Uber checks the model year against your vehicle identification number (VIN), so the year you report must match your registration and title.

Your car must have four doors, a working seatbelt in every seat, and no major damage to the body or interior. Uber will ask you to upload photos of the front, back, left side, and right side of your vehicle, plus photos of the interior showing the seats and dashboard. If the photos show dents, broken windows, or stains, Uber may reject your vehicle or ask you to repair it before approval.

Background check and driving record

Uber runs a background check through a third-party company that reviews your criminal history and driving record. The check looks back seven years for most violations. You will be disqualified if you have a felony conviction, a conviction for driving under the influence, or certain other serious crimes. Uber's full list of disqualifying offenses is available on their website.

Your driving record also matters. If you have more than three moving violations, more than one at-fault accident, or a suspended or revoked license in the past seven years, Uber may deny your process. A single speeding ticket or minor accident usually will not disqualify you, but the exact threshold varies by city. If you are unsure whether your record will pass, contact Uber support before you submit your process.

Vehicle inspection and documentation

Uber requires proof that your vehicle is safe and roadworthy. In some cities, Uber arranges the inspection through a partner shop and you schedule an appointment. In other cities, you can use a state safety inspection or emissions test that you have already completed. A few cities allow you to self-certify by uploading photos and answering questions about your vehicle's condition.

You will also need to upload clear photos of your driver's license (front and back), proof of insurance, and vehicle registration. All documents must be current and legible. If a photo is blurry, cut off, or expired, Uber will ask you to resubmit it. Keep copies of everything you upload in case you need to reapply or dispute a decision.

City-specific rules and additional requirements

Some cities have local laws that add to Uber's standard requirements. For example, New York City requires a commercial driver's license and a specific Uber-approved inspection. San Francisco requires proof of local residency. Other cities require a business license or a background check through the local police department in addition to Uber's check.

Before you gather your documents, go to Uber's website, select your city, and read the full list of requirements for that location. If you are unsure whether you meet a requirement, contact Uber support through the app or website. Submitting incomplete or incorrect documents will delay your approval, so it is worth taking the time to verify everything first.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get approved after I submit my documents?

Approval usually takes one to two weeks. Uber reviews your background check and documents in order, and the timeline depends on how quickly your state's DMV responds to their verification request. If any document is missing or unclear, Uber will ask you to resubmit it, which adds several more days.

Can I drive for Uber if I have a suspended license?

No. Your license must be valid and unrestricted. If your license is currently suspended, you must wait until it is reinstated, then explore. Uber will verify your license status against your state's DMV records before approval.

What if my car is older than Uber's age requirement?

You cannot drive that vehicle for Uber. The age requirement exists in every city, though the exact cutoff varies. If your car is too old, you will need to use a different vehicle or wait until you have access to one that meets the requirement.

Do I need commercial insurance to drive for Uber?

Your insurance must cover rideshare driving, but it does not have to be a full commercial policy. Many insurance companies offer rideshare endorsements that add coverage to your personal policy at a lower cost than commercial insurance. Contact your insurance company to find out what options they offer.

What happens if I fail the background check?

Uber will send you a notice explaining why you were denied. Depending on the reason, you may be able to appeal or reapply after a certain amount of time. If the denial was based on incorrect information, you can dispute it with Uber or with the background check company.