The baseline requirements to drive for Uber

To drive for Uber, you need to be at least 21 years old (19 in some cities), have a valid driver's license, proof of insurance, and a vehicle that meets Uber's standards. You'll also need a Social Security number, a checking account, and a smartphone with the Uber Driver app. Uber runs a background check and a driving record check before you can start accepting rides.

The process takes about 3 to 5 business days if your documents are in order. If something doesn't pass — a recent accident, a lapsed insurance policy, or a gap in your driving history — Uber will tell you what needs to change before you can drive. You don't pay Uber to start; the company takes a percentage of each fare you complete, usually between 25% and 30% depending on your city.

Key Takeaways

  • You must be at least 21 years old, have a valid driver's license, current insurance, and a vehicle registered in your name or with written permission from the owner.
  • Uber requires a background check and a driving record check; violations like DUIs, reckless driving, or multiple at-fault accidents in the past 3 to 7 years will disqualify you.
  • Your vehicle must pass a safety inspection and meet age and mileage requirements that vary by city — typically no more than 10 to 15 years old.
  • You'll need a smartphone, a valid email address, a checking account for payouts, and proof of residency in the state where you want to drive.

Documents you'll need to upload

Uber's app walks you through uploading each document. You'll need a photo of your driver's license (front and back), a photo of your insurance card, and a photo of your vehicle registration. The registration must show your name or, if the vehicle belongs to someone else, a signed document from that person giving you permission to use it for rideshare work.

You'll also upload a photo of yourself taken with your phone — Uber uses this for identity verification. Some cities require additional documents: proof of residency (a utility bill or lease dated within the last 60 days), your Social Security number, and sometimes a vehicle inspection report from a certified mechanic. Check your city's requirements in the Uber Driver app before you start uploading, because missing documents will delay your approval.

Background and driving record checks

Uber uses third-party companies to pull your background and driving history. The background check looks for felonies, violent crimes, and sex offenses. The driving record check looks at your state's motor vehicle records for accidents, violations, and license suspensions. Uber's standards vary slightly by city, but generally you'll be disqualified if you have a DUI or reckless driving conviction in the past 7 years, or more than one at-fault accident or moving violation in the past 3 years.

Minor violations — a speeding ticket or a single at-fault fender-bender — usually won't stop you. If you're unsure whether something on your record will disqualify you, you can request your own driving record from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles before you explore. That way you'll know what Uber will see. If Uber denies you, they'll tell you why, and you can sometimes reapply after a certain amount of time has passed.

Vehicle requirements and inspection

Your vehicle must be registered in your name or in the name of someone who has given you written permission to use it. Most cities require the vehicle to be no more than 10 to 15 years old, though this varies — check the Uber Driver app for your specific city. The car must have four doors, working seat belts, a valid registration, and current insurance that covers rideshare driving.

Some cities require an in-person vehicle inspection at a certified mechanic or inspection station. Others allow you to upload photos of your vehicle and its odometer. The inspection checks that the car is safe to drive: brakes, tires, lights, windshield, and mirrors all need to be in working order. If your vehicle doesn't pass, you'll need to get it repaired and resubmit photos or schedule another inspection.

Insurance and what it must cover

Your personal auto insurance must be active and in your name. Uber requires proof of coverage before you start driving. However, your personal policy may not cover you while you're driving for Uber — many policies exclude commercial use. Before you upload your insurance card, call your insurance company and ask whether your policy covers rideshare driving, or whether you need to add a rideshare endorsement.

If your personal policy doesn't cover rideshare work, you have two options: add a rideshare endorsement to your existing policy (usually $10 to $15 per month), or purchase a separate rideshare insurance policy. Uber also provides limited coverage while you're actively driving a passenger, but it doesn't cover damage to your own vehicle or gaps when you're online but haven't picked up a ride yet. Having your own coverage protects you in those gaps.

Phone, email, and payment setup

You'll need a smartphone with the Uber Driver app installed. The app runs on iOS and Android. You'll also need a valid email address and a U.S. checking account in your name for payouts. Uber deposits your earnings weekly, usually on Tuesday or Wednesday, so the account must be active and able to receive transfers.

During signup, you'll create a username and password for the Uber Driver app. You'll also set up your payment method — Uber will ask for your bank routing number and account number. If you don't have a checking account, some banks and credit unions offer accounts with no minimum balance or monthly fees. You can also use some prepaid debit cards, though Uber's requirements change, so check the app to see which cards are currently accepted in your area.

Proof of residency and Social Security number

Uber requires proof that you live in the state where you want to drive. A utility bill, lease agreement, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days will work. You'll also need to provide your Social Security number for tax purposes — Uber reports your earnings to the IRS, and you'll receive a 1099-NEC form at the end of the year if you earn more than $600.

If you don't have a Social Security number, you can use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) in some cases, though this varies by city. Contact Uber support through the Driver app to ask whether an ITIN is accepted where you want to drive. Your Social Security number and personal information are encrypted and stored securely — Uber doesn't share this data with passengers.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get approved to drive for Uber?

Approval usually takes 3 to 5 business days if all your documents are clear and your background and driving checks pass. If Uber needs more information or if something on your record needs review, it can take longer. You'll see your status in the Uber Driver app, and Uber will email you if they need additional documents.

What happens if I have an accident or ticket after I start driving?

You should report accidents to Uber through the Driver app and to your insurance company. Uber periodically reviews driving records, so new violations or accidents may trigger another check. Depending on what happened, Uber may deactivate your account temporarily or permanently. Always report incidents promptly rather than hoping Uber won't find out.

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

No. A suspended license disqualifies you when ready. A DUI conviction within the past 7 years will also disqualify you in most cities. If your DUI is older than 7 years, you may be able to drive, but Uber's policy varies by location. Contact Uber support to ask about your specific situation before you explore.

Do I need rideshare insurance if Uber provides coverage?

Uber's coverage has gaps — it doesn't cover your vehicle while you're online but haven't picked up a passenger, and it doesn't cover damage to your own car. Personal auto insurance usually excludes rideshare work. Adding a rideshare endorsement to your existing policy is cheaper than buying a separate policy and fills those gaps, so it's worth doing.

What if someone else owns the vehicle I want to drive?

The owner must sign a document giving you permission to use the vehicle for Uber. You'll upload this signed permission letter along with the vehicle registration. The vehicle must still be registered in the owner's name, and they must have insurance on it. Some insurance policies don't allow other drivers to use the vehicle for commercial purposes, so the owner should check their policy first.