Q&A for How to Become an Uber Driver

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  • Question
    How long does it take to sign up as an Uber driver?
    Christopher Batchelor
    Former Lyft & Uber Driver
    Christopher Batchelor has been driving for Lyft since July 2017 and Uber since August 2017. He has made more than 3300 combined rides as a driver for these ride-sharing services.
    Former Lyft & Uber Driver
    Expert Answer
    You can sign up for Uber easily through the Uber Driver app on your phone or over the web. They do require documentation, but it's easy to take a picture of. When I applied, it took about 24 hours of processing time to be accepted.
  • Question
    While I'm doing a ride (pick up and drop), who covers my insurance? My personal insurance does not cover any commercial driving.
    Community Answer
    When you are "Online" for Uber and are actively driving riders, you are provided additional commercial insurance by Uber. This coverage ends once you close your Uber Driver app. You do not need commercial insurance from your insurance provider, just your standard coverage.
  • Question
    Why does the car have to be a 4 door? I qualify in every other way.
    Community Answer
    Uber requires a four door car for passenger convenience and to ensure that you can take up to four passengers.
  • Question
    Is there a registration fee?
    Community Answer
    No, there is no fee to sign up. If you become an Uber driver but do not have a smartphone, then you can rent one for $10/Day with $200 security deposit. The deposit will be returned to you upon returning the smartphone.
  • Question
    Can I use my Chevy Avalanche as my vehicle?
    Community Answer
    If the vehicle has four doors and meet the year requirements, it can be used.
  • Question
    I have another job, can I just drive certain days and/or evenings?
    Community Answer
    Yes, you can choose to drive whenever you'd like. There are no minimum or maximum hours for Uber drivers.
  • Question
    How can I get in contact with someone at Uber?
    Community Answer
    Check online for the closest Uber Greenlight location. You'll be able to meet with Uber representatives that can answer all of your questions.
  • Question
    I've got my professional driver's permit, but I don't have a car yet, so what is the next step?
    Community Answer
    If you don't own a car, Uber can help you rent or lease one in certain areas. See t.uber.com/xchange for details.
  • Question
    Is it necessary to know all the streets if I want to become an Uber driver?
    Community Answer
    No, you do not need to know all the streets, but the more you are familiar with an area, the easier it will be to drive and pick up passengers. You will become more knowledgeable of the streets the more you drive. Use a navigation system to keep you from getting lost.
  • Question
    Do you have to be a citizen to become an Uber driver?
    Community Answer
    Yes, in the US you'll need a social security number in order to receive a background check and apply for a driver position.
  • Question
    Can an account be set up in one name but the driver be a different person for Uber?
    Community Answer
    No. The person whose name is on the account must be the driver. Anything else is against the terms of service.
  • Question
    Can I work 5 hours per day?
    Community Answer
    You can work as much as you want. There is no minimum or maximum time you can drive with Uber.
  • Question
    How much does it pay?
    Community Answer
    Drivers who work 40+ hours a week often make as much as $60,000-$90,000 per year.
  • Question
    Would my 2 door Citroen C2 be good enough for 1 or 2 people?
    Community Answer
    You must have a four door vehicle to drive for Uber.
  • Question
    What insurance must your car carry to be qualified?
    Community Answer
    When driving for uberX or uberPOOL, you'll just need your standard state-required insurance. Uber provides additional insurance while you are looking for riders and taking riders on a trip. Your normal insurance resumes when the ride ends. You don't need commerical insurance or a commercial license. If you want to drive UberBlack, UberSUV, or UberTaxi, you'll need a commercial license and commercial insurance.
  • Question
    Does the insurance have to be in my name?
    Community Answer
    Yes, your insurance has to match the name on your license to drive with Uber.
  • Question
    I got a DUI on 07/04/2008. I do not drink anymore. Can I still be an Uber driver?
    Community Answer
    Most likely yes. Uber generally takes into consideration violations from the last seven years; since your DUI was more than seven years ago, it shouldn't be a problem.
  • Question
    Can I use my Chevrolet car?
    Dollmakers
    Community Answer
    If it meets the listed requirements, yes.
  • Question
    My wife will register with Uber. Can I drive the car when she is off duty?
    Community Answer
    If you mean you wish to drive the car for your own personal errands, etc., of course you can. If you mean you'd like to also drive for Uber, you have to have your own separate registration.
  • Question
    Do I have to take riders that smoke?
    Community Answer
    No. You will be able to manage preferences on the app regarding smoking, pets, food and drink, etc. You don't have to allow smokers in your car if you don't wish to.
  • Question
    Can I be an Uber driver and take my small child with me?
    Community Answer
    No, you cannot have someone else in the car with you while driving for Uber.
  • Question
    Can I use an Innova 2014 or Mitsubishi Montero sports 2012 for Uber driving?
    Community Answer
    Of course! Any car can be used for Uber. More people will use your car if they like the style and model of the car, however.
  • Question
    Can I become an Uber driver without my own personal car?
    Community Answer
    Yes, you can. You can rent one from Uber, but I'm not sure how much they charge.
  • Question
    What is required to become an Uber driver besides owning my car and having insurance?
    Community Answer
    You'll need to pass a background check and a vehicle inspection in order to begin driving for Uber.
  • Question
    Do I need a professional drivers license like a CDL to drive for Uber?
    Community Answer
    You do not need a CDL. In some states, you will need a chauffer's license. Check with your DMV to see if you can drive using a regular license or if you'll have to convert to a chauffer's license.
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