The basic path to driving for Uber Eats
To drive for Uber Eats, you create an account on the Uber Driver app, upload documents that prove who you are and that you own or lease your vehicle, and wait for Uber to verify everything — usually one to three business days. Once approved, you can turn on the app and start accepting delivery requests in your area. You don't interview with anyone, and there's no background check fee, but Uber does run a background check as part of the process.
The whole thing happens on your phone. You'll need a smartphone with GPS, a valid driver's license, proof of vehicle registration, and proof of insurance. Some states and cities add extra requirements — California requires a commercial driver's license for certain vehicle types, and some cities require you to register with the local government before you start. Check your city's rules before you begin, because starting without the right permits can mean your earnings get held or your account gets deactivated.
Key Takeaways
- You sign up through the Uber Driver app using your phone, upload your documents, and wait for approval — usually one to three business days.
- You'll need a valid driver's license, current vehicle registration, and active insurance in your name or as an authorized driver.
- Some states and cities require additional permits or commercial licensing before you start, so check your local rules first.
- Uber runs a background check on all drivers, but you don't pay for it — it's part of their process.
- Once approved, you control when you work by turning the app on and off whenever you want.
What documents you need before you start
Gather these items before you open the app: a valid driver's license (your state's standard license works), your vehicle's current registration, and proof of insurance. The insurance must be active and in your name or list you as an authorized driver. A photo of each document taken on your phone is fine — you'll upload them directly in the app.
If you lease your vehicle, you'll need the lease agreement or a letter from the leasing company confirming you can use it for delivery work. If you own it outright or have a loan, the registration is enough. Uber also asks for your Social Security number, date of birth, and address — this is what they use to run the background check.
Keep these documents handy even after you're approved. Uber sometimes asks drivers to re-verify their insurance or registration, especially if yours is expiring soon. If your insurance lapses or your registration expires while you're driving, your account will be deactivated until you upload the new documents.
The step-by-step signup process
read the Uber Driver app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. Open it and tap "Sign up." Enter your phone number and create a password. Uber will text you a code to confirm your number.
Next, you'll enter your name, date of birth, email address, and home address. Then you'll add your vehicle information: the year, make, model, and license plate. Uber checks this against its approved vehicle list — most cars from 2011 or newer are fine, but some luxury brands and very old vehicles don't may have access to. If you're unsure, search your vehicle on Uber's website before you upload anything.
After that, you'll take photos of your driver's license (front and back), your vehicle registration, and your insurance card. Use good lighting and make sure all the text is readable. Upload them through the app. Uber will also ask you to take a selfie to confirm it's really you — this uses facial recognition, so take it in good light and make sure your face is clearly visible.
Once you've uploaded everything, you'll see a message saying your documents are under review. This usually takes one to three business days. Uber will email you when you're approved, and you can start accepting deliveries right away.
State and local requirements that can delay you
California requires all Uber Eats drivers to have a commercial driver's license if they're driving certain vehicle types, though most passenger cars are exempt. Check the California DMV website to confirm your vehicle type before you sign up.
New York City requires Uber Eats drivers to register with the Taxi and Limousine Commission (TLC) and get a TLC license before they start. This takes several weeks and costs money. You must complete this before Uber will set up your account in New York City.
Some cities — including parts of Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Seattle — require delivery drivers to register with the city or get a local permit. Search "[your city] delivery driver permit" or call your city's business licensing office to find out what's required. If you skip this step and Uber finds out, they may deactivate your account or hold your earnings.
If you're not sure what your area requires, contact your city's business licensing department or check the city's website. It takes five minutes and saves you from signing up, getting approved, and then finding out you can't legally work.
What happens during the background check
Uber runs a background check through a third-party company, usually within 24 to 48 hours of you uploading your documents. They check your driving record, criminal history, and sex offender registry. The check costs nothing — Uber pays for it.
You'll be denied if you have certain felonies on your record, a DUI or reckless driving conviction in the past seven years, or multiple moving violations. You'll also be denied if you're on a sex offender registry or have an active warrant. Uber's exact rules change, so if you have a criminal or driving record, contact Uber support before you sign up to ask whether you'll be approved.
If you're approved, you get an email saying so. If you're denied, Uber will tell you why in the email. If you think the decision is wrong — for example, if the background check company mixed you up with someone else — you can dispute it through Uber's support page.
Getting started once you're approved
After Uber approves you, open the Uber Driver app and turn on your availability. You'll see a map showing your area and a toggle that says "Go Online" or "Available." Tap it to start receiving delivery requests. You can turn it off anytime — there's no minimum hours or schedule.
Your first few deliveries may take longer to arrive because Uber's algorithm is learning your speed and reliability. After you complete a few deliveries, you'll start seeing requests more regularly. Ratings matter: customers rate you after each delivery, and if your rating drops below 4.6 stars, Uber may deactivate you.
You'll earn money per delivery, plus tips from customers. Uber pays out to your bank account weekly, usually on Tuesday or Wednesday. Set up direct deposit in the app under "Payments" before your first delivery so you don't have to wait for a check.
Common reasons your signup gets stuck
Your documents are blurry or cut off. Retake them in bright light with all four corners visible. Uber's system is automated, so if the text isn't clear, it rejects them automatically.
Your insurance or registration is expired. Uber checks the dates on your documents. If either one expires within 30 days, Uber may ask you to upload a renewal before approving you.
Your vehicle isn't on Uber's approved list. Most cars from 2011 or newer work, but some models don't. Check Uber's vehicle requirements page before you upload your registration.
You're in a city with local permit requirements and you haven't completed them. New York City and some other cities require you to register with the city before Uber will set up you. Do this before you sign up with Uber.
Your background check came back with a flag. If you have a recent DUI, felony, or multiple moving violations, Uber may deny you. Contact Uber support to ask about your specific situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get approved after I upload my documents?
Most drivers are approved within one to three business days. Uber's system is automated, so if your documents are clear and meet their requirements, you'll hear back quickly. If there's an issue — blurry photo, expired insurance — Uber will ask you to resubmit, which adds a few more days.
Can I use someone else's car to deliver for Uber Eats?
No. The car must be registered in your name or you must be listed as an authorized driver on the registration. If you lease, the lease agreement must be in your name. Uber checks this during signup and will deactivate you if you're caught driving a car that isn't yours.
What if I get denied during the background check?
Uber will email you the reason. If it's a mistake — for example, the background company confused you with someone else — you can dispute it through Uber's support page. If it's accurate and relates to a felony or DUI, you may not be able to drive for Uber. Contact support to ask about your specific situation.
Do I need commercial insurance to drive for Uber Eats?
Your personal auto insurance must cover commercial delivery work. Many personal policies don't, so call your insurance company and tell them you want to deliver for Uber Eats. They'll either add a rider or tell you to switch to a commercial policy. Uber requires proof of active insurance before you start.
Can I start driving before my local city permit comes through?
No. If your city requires a permit — like New York City's TLC license — you must complete it before Uber will set up you. Uber checks this during signup. If you skip it and start driving anyway, Uber can deactivate your account and hold your earnings.