How to Become an Uber or Lyft Driver in 6 Easy Steps

 

Hey, you! Yeah, you--the one looking for a side gig that's flexible enough to work around your busy schedule. Have you thought about becoming an Uber or Lyft driver? It's a great way to make some extra cash in your spare time. The process is actually pretty simple and straightforward. In just a few basic steps, you can be well on your way to hitting the road and making money by driving people where they need to go. And the best part is you get to be your own boss. If this sounds appealing, here's the scoop on how to become an Uber or Lyft driver in 6 easy steps.

Meet the Requirements to Drive for Uber or Lyft

To drive for Uber or Lyft, you have to meet some basic requirements.

•Be at least 21 years old. Both companies require you to be of legal drinking age in the US.

•Have a 4-door vehicle. Uber and Lyft don’t allow two-door cars or trucks for transporting passengers. Your vehicle should be in good working condition, no older than 10-15 years depending on your city.

•Have a valid driver's license. You'll need a valid license for at least a year in your state. Uber and Lyft conduct background and DMV checks to verify this.

•Pass a background check. Uber and Lyft screen all drivers to ensure the safety of riders. Minor violations may be okay, but major offenses like DUIs are typically disqualifying.

•Have auto insurance. You must have personal auto insurance in your name that meets your state’s minimum coverage requirements. Uber and Lyft provide supplemental insurance once you start accepting rides.

•Meet your city’s requirements. Some cities may have additional stipulations like business licenses, permits or vehicle inspections. Check with your local government to make sure you comply with regulations.

•Consider signing up for both. Driving for Uber and Lyft at the same time allows you to make more money. You can accept rides from whichever service is busier. Many drivers find this the most profitable approach.

Becoming an Uber or Lyft driver is an easy process if you meet the basic qualifications. Once you get approved, you’ll be picking up passengers and earning money in no time! Just follow the necessary steps, get out on the road, and start driving whenever you have free time.

Apply to Become an Uber or Lyft Driver

To get started driving for Uber or Lyft, you'll need to apply to become an approved driver. The good news is, the process is pretty straightforward.

1. Meet the basic requirements. This typically includes being at least 21 years old, having a 4-door vehicle 2004 or newer, a valid driver's license, and auto insurance in your name. Some cities may have additional stipulations, so check with your local regulations.

2. Provide necessary documents. This usually includes a scanned copy of your driver's license, vehicle registration, and proof of auto insurance. You'll also need to pass a background check, so be prepared to enter your Social Security number.

3. Complete an online application. Sign up to drive on either the Uber or Lyft website or mobile app. Fill in some personal information, your vehicle details, and availability. The entire application should only take about 15-20 minutes.

4. Schedule an in-person vehicle inspection. If your application is approved, you'll need to take your vehicle to an approved auto shop or dealership for a basic inspection to ensure it meets the company's standards. The inspection typically costs around $20.

5. Complete driver orientation. Lastly, you'll go through an online orientation to learn about topics like rider etiquette, drop-off procedures, earnings, and driver policies. Then you're ready to start picking up passengers!

Driving for a ridesharing service like Uber or Lyft in your spare time can be an easy way to earn some extra money on a flexible schedule. And the good news is, getting started as an approved driver is really quite simple if you follow the necessary steps. Before you know it, you'll be cruising the streets and cashing in on your rides!

Complete a Background Check

To become an Uber or Lyft driver, you’ll need to pass a background check. This helps ensure the safety of both drivers and passengers. The background check will look for any history of criminal offenses, DUIs, reckless driving, or other red flags.

How the Background Check Works

Both Uber and Lyft use third-party companies to run background checks on potential drivers. The process typically takes 3 to 5 business days. They will check:

• Your driving record to confirm you have a valid license and no major violations.

• Criminal databases to check for any offenses. Minor traffic tickets are typically okay, but major violations or felonies will likely disqualify you.

• Your name against terrorist watchlists to screen for any matches.

• Your Social Security number to verify your identity.

What Can Disqualify You

To pass the background check, you must have:

• A clean driving record for at least 1 to 3 years, depending on your location. DUIs, reckless driving, or license suspensions may disqualify you.

• No violent crimes, sexual offenses, or felonies. Some misdemeanors may be okay, depending on the offense and how long ago it was. Check with the companies for specifics.

• Proof of eligibility to work in your country. Typically, you must be at least 21 years old with a valid driver's license, vehicle registration, and auto insurance in your name.

• Accurate personal information. Lying or withholding information on your application can lead to disqualification.

Disputing the Results

If your background check comes back with an offense that you think shouldn't disqualify you or may not be accurate, you can dispute the results with the background check company. Provide evidence to support amending or removing the information, such as court records or letters of recommendation. However, there's no guarantee the decision will be overturned. The safety of riders and drivers is the top priority for ridesharing companies. With a clean background, you'll be on the road and making money as an Uber or Lyft driver in no time!

Get Your Car Inspected (If Needed)

Once you’ve applied and been approved to drive, you'll need to make sure your vehicle meets Uber and Lyft’s requirements. This typically involves an inspection to ensure it’s in good working order.

Vehicle Requirements

To qualify as an Uber or Lyft driver, your vehicle must:

• Be a 4-door sedan, coupe or SUV

• Be 10 years old or newer in most areas

• Have no major cosmetic damage

• Have working air conditioning

• Pass a vehicle inspection

Inspection Process

If your vehicle is less than a certain age, usually 7 years old, you may be able to submit photos of your registration and insurance for review. For older vehicles, most areas require an in-person inspection. This is done at a local auto parts store like AutoZone, Advance Auto Parts or O’Reilly Auto Parts. The inspection checks things like:

• Headlights, taillights, turn signals

• Windshield wipers

• Seat belts

• Horn

• Tire tread depth

• Proper registration and insurance

The inspection typically costs between $20 to $40 and takes about 15 minutes. If your vehicle passes, you'll receive a report to provide to Uber and Lyft to show your vehicle meets their standards. If it doesn’t pass, you'll need to get the necessary repairs or service to qualify before re-inspecting.

Once your vehicle is inspected, you're ready to start driving! Keep your vehicle well-maintained according to recommended service schedules to ensure a safe, enjoyable experience for your passengers. Performing routine multi-point inspections yourself between servicing is also a good idea. This helps avoid any issues coming up unexpectedly and ensures you provide the best possible service as an Uber or Lyft driver.

Complete an Orientation and Start Driving!

Once you’ve completed the application and background check, it’s time to start driving! The final steps are:

Complete an orientation

Both Uber and Lyft require new drivers to complete an orientation to familiarize you with their platform and policies. This typically takes around 30 minutes and can be done online through their website or mobile app. The orientation will cover things like:

• How the ridesharing app works from the driver’s side

• Safety and community guidelines

• Tips for providing good customer service

• How payments and incentives work

Get on the road!

You’re now ready to start accepting rides through the Uber or Lyft app. Log in, go online, and wait for ride requests to come in. Accept a ride request and the app will provide turn-by-turn directions to pick up your passenger. Once the ride is over, the fare will automatically be charged to the passenger’s payment method on file. Your earnings will be deposited into your account each week.

Both companies offer incentives and bonuses for new drivers to help you get started. Take advantage of these earning opportunities in your first few weeks to maximize your income. Don’t forget that as an independent contractor, you get to choose your own hours. You can drive whenever you have free time—mornings, evenings, weekdays or weekends. The flexibility these gig economy jobs provide is perfect for those looking to earn extra money on a part-time basis.

If at any time you have questions about payments, account issues, or just need help navigating the app, both Uber and Lyft offer support for drivers via email, phone, and live chat. Their goal is for you to have a smooth experience so you can focus on providing safe, affordable rides for passengers. Buckle up and happy driving! You’re now well on your way to becoming a successful rideshare driver.

Conclusion

So there you have it, the complete process for becoming an Uber or Lyft driver in only 6 steps. Now that you know the requirements and have the details for getting started, you're ready to hit the road and start earning. While the job isn't for everyone, if you enjoy driving and meeting new people while making some decent money on your own schedule, it could be an ideal side hustle or full-time gig. And with the demand for ridesharing services only going up, the opportunities to drive and earn are practically endless. What are you waiting for? Open the app, turn on the 'Available to Drive' option and start racking up those 5-star ratings and rider fares. The road to success as an Uber or Lyft driver starts now. Time to start your engine!