What you need before you start

Uber requires you to meet several conditions before you can drive. You must be at least 18 years old, have a valid driver's license, own or have regular access to a may have access to vehicle, and carry auto insurance. You also need a Social Security number, a bank account for deposits, and a phone with the Uber Driver app installed.

The vehicle requirements depend on which service you want to drive for. UberX requires a four-door car in good condition, typically 2010 or newer depending on your state. UberXL needs a larger vehicle that seats at least six passengers. Some cities also offer Uber Eats, which has different vehicle rules — you can use a motorcycle, scooter, or bicycle in some places.

Your insurance must cover commercial driving. Personal auto insurance often does not, so you will need to contact your insurance company or find a commercial policy. Uber also provides contingent liability coverage when you are actively driving, but that is not a substitute for your own policy.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a valid driver's license, may have access to vehicle, proof of insurance, Social Security number, and a smartphone to start the process.
  • Uber runs a background check that includes your driving record and criminal history, which can take several days to complete.
  • Vehicle inspections happen at an Uber-approved inspection center or through a partner mechanic, and you pay a fee that varies by location.
  • Once approved, you can turn the app on and start receiving ride requests, though your first rides may take time to arrive depending on demand in your area.

The background check and approval process

After you submit your information through the Uber Driver app, Uber runs a background check. This check looks at your driving record for the past seven years and your criminal history. The process typically takes three to five business days, though it can take longer if there are delays or if Uber needs more information from you.

Uber will reject you if you have certain violations on your record. These include a DUI or DWI within the past seven years, a reckless driving conviction, a major at-fault accident, or multiple traffic violations. You can contact Uber's support team to ask about your specific situation if you are unsure whether your record will disqualify you.

If your background check passes, Uber will send you to the next step: vehicle inspection. You cannot drive until this is complete.

Getting your vehicle inspected

Uber requires an inspection to confirm your car meets safety and condition standards. You schedule this at an Uber-approved inspection center in your area — Uber's website lists these locations by city. The inspection checks your brakes, lights, tires, windshield, doors, and overall condition. It takes about 15 minutes.

You pay a fee for the inspection, which ranges from $20 to $50 depending on your location and whether you use an Uber partner location or an independent mechanic. Some cities allow you to use any certified mechanic; others require an Uber-approved center. Check your local requirements before you book.

Bring your vehicle registration, proof of insurance, and your driver's license to the inspection. If your car fails, the inspector will tell you what needs to be fixed. You can return for a re-inspection once repairs are done.

Setting up your payment and tax information

You need a U.S. bank account in your name to receive earnings. Uber deposits your money weekly, usually on Tuesday or Wednesday, depending on your bank. The account must be a checking account — savings accounts do not work for Uber deposits.

You will also provide your Social Security number and tax information during setup. Uber issues a 1099-NEC form at the end of the year if you earn $600 or more, which you will need for your tax return. Keep records of your mileage and expenses throughout the year, as these may be deductible.

Uber takes a commission from each ride — the percentage varies by city and service type, typically between 25 and 30 percent. You see the breakdown before you accept each ride.

Completing your profile and documents

After your background check clears, you upload documents through the Uber Driver app. These include a photo of your driver's license, a photo of your vehicle registration, and a photo of your proof of insurance. The photos must be clear and show all required information.

You also upload a profile photo of yourself. This photo appears to passengers, so Uber requires a clear, recent headshot where your face is visible and you are looking at the camera. Sunglasses and hats are not allowed.

Uber reviews these documents within one to two business days. If something is unclear or missing, Uber will ask you to resubmit. Once everything is approved, you move to the vehicle inspection step.

Turning on the app and your first rides

Once your vehicle inspection is complete and all documents are approved, you can open the Uber Driver app and turn on your availability. The app shows you incoming ride requests in your area. You accept or decline each one — you are not required to take every ride, though accepting most of them helps your rating.

Your first rides may take time to arrive, especially if you are in a slower area or during off-peak hours. Uber's algorithm learns your patterns and gradually sends you more requests as you complete rides and build a rating. Passengers rate you after each trip on a scale of one to five stars.

You can drive whenever you want — there are no set hours or minimum commitment. However, some cities have requirements that you drive a certain number of hours per week to stay active on the platform.

What happens if you are not approved

If Uber denies your process, the app will show you the reason. Common reasons include a background check issue, a vehicle that does not meet requirements, or incomplete or unclear documents. You can contact Uber support to ask for more details about the decision.

Some denials are permanent — for example, if you have a DUI on your record within the past seven years. Others may be temporary, like if your vehicle is too old. In that case, you could reapply once your car is newer or once enough time has passed.

If you believe Uber made a mistake, you can request a review. Uber has an appeals process, though the timeline and success rate vary. Contact Uber support through the app to start an appeal.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the whole process take from start to finish?

Most people complete the process in one to two weeks. Background checks take three to five business days, document review takes one to two days, and vehicle inspection can usually be scheduled within a few days. Delays happen if documents are unclear or if inspection centers are busy in your area.

Can I drive for Uber if I have had a traffic ticket?

A single traffic ticket usually does not disqualify you. Uber looks at the pattern of your driving record over seven years. Multiple tickets, especially for speeding or reckless driving, may raise concerns, but one ticket typically will not prevent approval.

What if my vehicle is older than the year requirement?

Year requirements vary by city and service type. UberX in some cities requires 2010 or newer; in others it is 2012 or newer. Check Uber's requirements for your specific city before you start. If your car is too old, you cannot drive until you get a newer vehicle.

Do I need commercial insurance before I start the process?

Yes. You must have proof of insurance that covers commercial driving before you submit your documents. Personal auto insurance does not cover rideshare. Contact your insurance company or shop for a commercial policy that includes rideshare coverage.

What if I fail the vehicle inspection?

The inspector will tell you what needs to be fixed. Common failures are worn tires, broken lights, or damage to the body or interior. Once you make repairs, you can schedule a re-inspection at the same location. There is usually a re-inspection fee, though some centers waive it if you return within a certain timeframe.