You can deactivate your Uber driver account through the app or website, and reactivate it later without losing your history
Deactivation is different from deletion. When you deactivate, Uber pauses your account — you stop receiving ride requests, but your data, ratings, and earnings history stay on file. You can turn the account back on whenever you want by logging in again. Deletion is permanent and removes everything; Uber recommends deactivation if you think you might drive again.
The process takes about two minutes and happens when ready. You do not need to contact support unless something goes wrong or you want to delete instead of deactivate.
Key Takeaways
- Deactivation pauses your account and stops new ride requests, but you keep your ratings, earnings history, and the ability to reactivate later.
- You can deactivate through the Driver app under Account settings without calling support or waiting for approval.
- Reactivation is automatic the next time you log in, though Uber may ask you to update documents if they have expired.
- If you want to permanently delete your account instead, you will need to contact Uber support because the app does not offer that option.
How to deactivate through the Uber Driver app
Open the Uber Driver app and tap the menu icon (three horizontal lines) in the bottom right corner. Tap your profile picture or name at the top. Scroll down and tap "Account Settings," then look for "Deactivate Account" or "Go Offline Permanently" depending on your app version.
Tap that option and Uber will ask you why you are deactivating — the reasons include "I want to take a break," "I found another job," "I am having car issues," or "Other." You do not have to pick the exact reason; any selection moves you forward. Confirm the deactivation when prompted. Your account is now paused.
How to deactivate through the Uber website
Go to partners.uber.com and log in with your Uber driver account. Click your profile icon in the top right corner and select "Account Settings." Scroll down to find "Deactivate Account" and click it.
You will see the same reason dropdown. Select one, then confirm. The website deactivation works the same way as the app — your account pauses when ready and you stop receiving requests.
What happens to your account when deactivated
Your ratings, trip history, and earnings remain in your account. Passengers cannot see you or request rides from you. You will not receive notifications about surge pricing or promotions. Your vehicle insurance requirements do not change — if you are still using the vehicle for personal driving, your regular insurance still applies.
Uber does not charge you for deactivation, and you do not lose money or access to past earnings. If you have an outstanding balance owed to Uber (from tolls, damage claims, or other charges), that balance stays on your account and may affect reactivation.
How to reactivate your account
Log into the Uber Driver app or website with your existing username and password. Uber will prompt you to reactivate. If your documents (driver's license, vehicle registration, insurance) are current, you can reactivate when ready and start receiving requests within minutes.
If any documents have expired during your deactivation, Uber will ask you to upload new ones before reactivation is complete. This usually takes a few hours to a day for Uber to review. You cannot drive until documents are approved.
When you might want to deactivate instead of delete
Deactivate if you are taking a break from driving but think you might return — whether that is in a few weeks, months, or years. Your account history stays intact, so you do not start over with zero ratings. Passengers and Uber see your past reliability.
Delete only if you are certain you will never drive for Uber again and want all your data removed. Deletion is permanent and cannot be undone. Once deleted, you cannot recover your ratings, trip history, or earnings records.
How to permanently delete your account
The Uber Driver app and website do not have a delete button — you must contact Uber support. Open the app, tap your profile, scroll to the bottom, and tap "Help." Search for "delete account" or "close account." Select the option that appears and follow the prompts to message support.
Tell support you want to permanently delete your account, not deactivate it. They will confirm that deletion is permanent and irreversible, then process the request. Deletion usually takes a few business days. After that, your account and all associated data are gone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I deactivate if I have an active ride or money owed to Uber?
You cannot deactivate while actively driving a passenger — you must end the ride first. If you owe Uber money, deactivation is still allowed, but the balance stays on your account. You may not be able to reactivate until the balance is paid, depending on the amount and reason.
Will deactivating affect my personal Uber account as a passenger?
No. Your driver account and passenger account are separate. Deactivating your driver account does not change your ability to request rides as a passenger, and your passenger rating stays the same.
How long can I stay deactivated before Uber closes my account?
Uber does not have a set time limit for deactivation. You can stay deactivated indefinitely and reactivate whenever you log back in. However, if your documents expire and you do not renew them, Uber may eventually deactivate you automatically for compliance reasons.
What if I deactivate but want to reactivate in a few days?
Log in to the app or website and follow the reactivation prompt. If your documents are current, you will be back online within minutes. There is no penalty for deactivating and reactivating frequently.
Do I lose my vehicle inspection or background check when I deactivate?
No. Your background check and vehicle inspection records stay valid. When you reactivate, Uber does not re-run these unless they have expired or Uber has updated its requirements. You only need to upload new documents if the old ones are no longer current.