What You Need Before You Start
Uber requires you to meet several conditions before you can drive. You must be at least 21 years old, hold a valid driver's license, have proof of vehicle insurance, and own or have regular access to a may have access to vehicle. Uber also runs a background check on every applicant, which means any serious driving violations or criminal convictions may disqualify you.
Your vehicle must be registered in your name or in the name of someone who lives with you. The car needs to pass a vehicle inspection — Uber checks the title, registration, and insurance documents to confirm the vehicle is roadworthy and legally yours to drive. If you're financing the car or leasing it, you'll need documentation showing you have permission to use it for commercial rideshare work.
You'll also need a Social Security number, a valid email address, and a phone number where Uber can reach you. Have these details ready before you begin the process.
Key Takeaways
- You must be at least 21 years old with a valid driver's license, proof of insurance, and a may have access to vehicle registered in your name or a household member's name.
- Uber runs a background check that includes driving history and criminal records, and serious violations can disqualify you from driving.
- Your vehicle must pass an inspection that verifies the title, registration, and insurance are current and legitimate.
- The entire process from process to first ride typically takes one to two weeks, depending on how quickly you submit documents and pass the inspection.
- You can drive for Uber only in cities where the service operates, and some cities have additional local requirements you must meet.
The Step-by-Step process Process
Start by going to Uber's driver sign-up page on their website or downloading the Uber Driver app. You'll enter your phone number and create an account. Uber will send you a verification code by text — enter it to confirm your number is real.
Next, you'll provide your personal information: full name, date of birth, email address, and Social Security number. Uber uses this to run the background check. Then you'll enter your driver's license number and the state that issued it. Have your license in front of you so you can type the information exactly as it appears.
After that comes vehicle information. Enter your vehicle's year, make, model, and license plate number. You'll upload a photo of your vehicle's registration and proof of insurance. Both documents must show your name or the name of someone in your household. If the insurance is in someone else's name, you'll need to provide a letter from that person giving you permission to use the vehicle for rideshare driving.
Finally, you'll upload a clear photo of yourself. Uber uses this to verify your identity and to show passengers who is arriving. The photo should be recent, well-lit, and show your face clearly — no sunglasses, hats, or filters.
Background Check and Vehicle Inspection
Once you submit your process, Uber sends your information to a third-party background screening company. This company checks your driving record with your state's Department of Motor Vehicles and runs a criminal background check. The process usually takes three to five business days, though it can take longer if there are delays with the DMV or if Uber needs to verify information.
Uber will reject your process if you have serious violations on your record. These include DUIs, reckless driving convictions, multiple at-fault accidents in the past three years, or a suspended or revoked license. Minor traffic violations like speeding tickets usually do not disqualify you, but Uber's standards vary slightly by city.
At the same time, your vehicle goes through an inspection. Uber checks that the registration and insurance documents match the vehicle information you provided and that there are no liens or outstanding recalls. You do not need to take your car to a physical inspection location — Uber verifies everything through the documents you upload.
If the background check or vehicle inspection fails, Uber will send you an email explaining why. Some issues can be resolved by resubmitting corrected documents. Others, like a suspended license, mean you cannot drive until the underlying problem is fixed.
Getting Approved and Setting Up Payment
If your background check passes and your vehicle is approved, Uber will send you an approval email. At this point, you can set up your driver account and start accepting rides. Before your first trip, you'll need to set up how Uber pays you.
Uber deposits your earnings into a bank account in your name. You'll provide your routing number and account number during setup. Uber typically pays weekly, on Mondays, for rides completed the previous week. Some cities offer when ready Pay, which lets you cash out your earnings the same day you earn them, though there is usually a small fee for this service.
You'll also choose your vehicle category — UberX is the standard option for most drivers with regular cars. If your vehicle is newer or in excellent condition, you may be able to drive for UberX Premium or Uber Comfort, which pay slightly more per ride. You can switch categories later if your vehicle qualifies.
Documents You'll Need to Have Ready
| Document | What Uber Needs | Format |
|---|---|---|
| Driver's License | License number, state of issue, expiration date | Photo or typed information |
| Vehicle Registration | Current registration showing your name or household member's name | Photo of the document |
| Proof of Insurance | Current policy showing your name or household member's name, with rideshare coverage noted | Photo of the document |
| Social Security Number | Full nine-digit number for background check | Typed into the app |
| Selfie | Clear, recent photo of your face for identity verification | Photo taken through the app |
Insurance and Local Requirements
Your personal auto insurance may not cover rideshare driving. Many standard policies exclude commercial use, which means if you get into an accident while driving for Uber, your insurance company could deny the claim. Before you start driving, contact your insurance company and ask whether your policy covers rideshare work or whether you need to add a rideshare endorsement.
Uber provides some coverage during rides — it covers liability if you cause an accident while a passenger is in the car, and it covers collision and comprehensive damage to your vehicle. However, there is a gap between the time you accept a ride and the time a passenger gets in the car. During this gap, Uber's coverage does not explore, so your personal insurance needs to cover you.
Some cities also have local requirements. New York City, for example, requires Uber drivers to obtain a For-Hire Vehicle license from the Taxi and Limousine Commission before they can drive. San Francisco requires drivers to complete a background check through the city. Check with your city's transportation department or Uber's city-specific requirements page to see if there are additional steps you need to take.
What Happens If Your process Is Denied
If Uber denies your process, the rejection email will explain the reason. Common reasons include a suspended or revoked license, a DUI or reckless driving conviction, too many accidents or traffic violations in the past three years, or a mismatch between the documents you submitted and the information in government records.
If the issue is a document mismatch — for example, your insurance shows a different address than your registration — you can resubmit corrected documents and Uber will review your process again. If the issue is a driving record problem, you may be able to reapply after a certain amount of time has passed or after the violation is removed from your record.
If you believe Uber made a mistake, you can contact Uber support through the app and request a manual review. Provide any additional documentation that clarifies the issue. The review process can take several weeks, and Uber does not always overturn its initial decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get approved as an Uber driver?
Most applicants hear back within one to two weeks. The background check typically takes three to five business days, and vehicle verification happens at the same time. Delays usually happen when the DMV is slow to respond or when you need to resubmit documents.
Can I drive for Uber if I have a financed or leased vehicle?
Yes, but you need written permission from the lender or leasing company. Some lenders and lease agreements prohibit commercial use, so check your paperwork first. If you have permission, upload a copy of the letter or agreement when you submit your vehicle information.
What if my insurance company says rideshare is not covered?
You need to add rideshare coverage before you start driving. Contact your insurance company and ask for a rideshare endorsement. The cost varies, but it is usually between $10 and $30 per month. Without it, you are not protected if you get into an accident while driving for Uber.
Do I need a commercial driver's license to drive for Uber?
No. A standard passenger vehicle driver's license is sufficient. You do not need a commercial license unless you drive a vehicle designed to carry more than 15 passengers, which is not the case for Uber rideshare.
Can I drive for Uber in a different city than where I live?
You can drive in any city where Uber operates, but you must meet that city's specific requirements. Some cities require local permits or licenses. Your vehicle registration does not have to match the city where you drive, but check the city's transportation rules before you start.