Driving for Uber is often presented as an easy way to make money: Sign up, then drive. But there's more to it than that.
You need to meet certain age, vehicle and insurance requirements, and pass a background check before you can start earning.
There's also expenses to deal with, like gas.
"With gas prices where they are, taking on a gig like rideshare or delivery just doesn’t math out in the same way," said Elizabeth Renter, NerdWallet's senior economist.
Here’s what to know before signing up.
» MORE: What are gas prices doing?
Uber driver requirements
Tick these boxes and you can likely drive with Uber:
- Meet the minimum age to drive for Uber in your city.
- Have a valid U.S. driver’s license.
- Have at least one year licensed driving experience in the United States (three years if you’re under 25 years old).
- Pass a screening process. This includes a review of your driving record and a background check.
- Provide proof of residency in your city or state.
- Give proof of vehicle insurance, if you’re planning to drive your own car.
Don't have a car? Uber drivers can also rent their vehicles through Uber, which come with insurance. The caveat, say posters on the r/uberdrivers subreddit, is that you have to drive a lot to make paying for the rental worth it. People post anonymously, so we cannot confirm their individual experiences or circumstances.
» MORE: Ways to make money
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Uber vehicle requirements
You're better off using your own car for Uber. In general, it needs to be in good working condition, not older than 15 years, have four doors and meet state requirements, such as having up-to-date registration.
Additional requirements may apply to drive for specialized services, such as UberX and UberXL.
Uber insurance requirements
Uber drivers need to have auto insurance coverage. Minimum insurance requirements vary by state, and some places have special requirements for rideshare drivers.
Uber also maintains some insurance coverage on behalf of its drivers. It kicks in after you’ve accepted a ride request, and may also apply if you’re waiting on a request.
Talk with your insurance provider before you start — it could cancel your policy if you don’t disclose your new gig.
Your personal policy may not cover every situation either. In that case, consider purchasing rideshare insurance, if it’s available where you live. Some types of Uber drivers may need a commercial auto policy.
How much do Uber drivers make?
Average earnings are between $15 and $25 per hour with Uber, according to SideHusl.com, a review site for money-making platforms.
What you'll actually make depends on when, where and how frequently you drive, plus any tips or bonuses you may receive. Then, there's expenses. Drivers cover their own gas and vehicle maintenance, and have to navigate gig worker taxes on their own.
Our NerdWallet writer gave Uber a test drive and did not dig his hourly rate after expenses.
How to maximize earnings as an Uber driver
The best way to do well with Uber is to drive during peak hours. In most cities, that means rush hours, evenings and weekends, according to Uber's help pages.
You can also get familiar with the various earning and bonus options to squeeze more out of it. Check for guaranteed-pay promotions in your area, which ensure your weekly or hourly earnings as long as you meet certain requirements.
A high customer rating can also boost your opportunities and earnings, so remember to keep your car clean, pay attention to the road, and be nice.
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If driving people makes you nervous, you can try delivering food with Uber Eats instead (or Grubhub or DoorDash, for that matter).
Uber delivery workers are not subject to the same rules and regulations as regular rideshare drivers.
Your car doesn’t need to have four doors or meet additional requirements to do Uber Eats, for example. You do need to be 19 years old, have a valid driver's license, and be willing to submit your Social Security number for a background check though.
Once you're approved, you can deliver food and packages, and even opt in to "shop & deliver" runs, similar to what Instacart Shoppers do.
You'll use the same Uber Driver app to go online and accept deliveries. Double up as a driver and deliverer for more opportunities to earn.
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- 1. Reddit.com. Driving Uber but with a rental car.
