Uber has quickly become most people’s go-to rideshare app for transportation. While taxis still exist, of course, ride share apps seem to be the preferred option nowadays.
They’re usually a cheaper option, seem to be just about everywhere, and in many cases, are easier to access.
Apart from simply riding with Uber to get from place to place, many people have become driver-partners themselves.
From those who drive sporadically in order to make extra money on the side to those who make it their main gig, it’s worth it to get started driving with Uber. If Uber has crossed your mind or seems like a suitable option for you, look over our ultimate guide before deciding whether or not it’s right for you.
Who Should Do It?
When it comes to who can drive with Uber, the answer is just about everyone. Of course, like with many things, it does come with a few key requirements.
All drivers who partner with Uber must be 21 or older. If you are under 23, you are required to have at least three years of driving experience in the US. If you are over 23, you are required to have at least one year of driving experience in the US. Naturally, you must have a valid driver’s license. You must also have an eligible 4-door vehicle in good condition. Plus, you must have auto insurance.
Additional requirements to drive with Uber vary by city and state. You will also need to complete the background check process. The sign-up process in total can take as little as from one to two weeks.
Apart from the legal aspects of becoming an Uber driver-partner, you should seriously consider whether or not it’s something you truly want to commit to. While it is a flexible side gig in that you can log on and off whenever you please, you will have to drive often if you hope to earn a significant amount.
What Kind of Car Do You Need?
To drive with the basic UberX service, by far the most popular, you simply need a four-door sedan with five seat belts. Vehicle requirements vary by city and state, but common requirements include that the vehicle is a model 10-15 years old or newer, has in-state registration/license plates, and has passed a vehicle inspection.
Moreover, vehicles that are commercially branded or otherwise marked, or salvaged may not be eligible. If you possess a larger car that seats six or more, such as an SUV, you may still be able to drive with UberXL. Still a great option instead of taxis, however, since you’ll only be allowed to drive for Uber XL, you’ll likely accommodate larger groups as the rates tend to be a little higher.
Lastly, if you are a licensed and insured livery or limousine driver with a black luxury vehicle or SUV, such as a Lexus, BMW, or Cadillac, you may be eligible to drive with Uber’s premium service UberBlack. It could provide you with even higher rates.
Nonetheless, as long as you have a car that’s less than fifteen years old, in good condition, and not a two-seater, you may be able to drive with Uber.
How Much You Can Potentially Earn
If you’re hoping to earn earn money without working, then Uber is not the right option for you. However, if you’d like a flexible side hustle that can help you earn money on the side, Uber can be a great option. Many Uber driver-partners have started out driving just as few hours per week and decided to drive more and more as time goes on.
Drivers receive a base payout for each pickup and then earnings are calculated by distance driven and time taken per trip.
In order to earn the most you can, you’ll want to take advantage of surge pricing and keep an eye out for busy times.
Surge Pricing
When there’s a high rider demand and few drivers online, prices can surge. Busy periods like weekends and Friday and Saturday nights may show up on your app as a red surge. During this time, passengers will be charged the regular fare multiplied by a surge amount. This may be able to help you earn up to double your regular earnings.
Lastly, if you’re hoping to do well as a driver-partner, there’s a few key things you’ll want to make sure you do. Have your GPS always ready to go, know your roads, city events (so you know where to avoid and when), make sure your car is well taken care of, and overall be polite.
People’s tendency to pick a driver, and your success, can often times be based on your driver rating. That being said, do everything in your power to be a driver-partner people actually want.
Peak Times to Drive
Again, the key to maximizing your earning potential is to know your city’s peak driving times. In my opinion you’ll want to drive on Friday and Saturday nights, peak going out times.
Furthermore, know everything that’s going on in your city. Whether it’s a concert, sporting event, festival, or peak holiday party time, when your city is bustling, you’ll want to be driving.
How Often You’ll Get Paid
When it comes to collecting your earnings you’ll never have to wait with Uber. Unlike most other gigs, you can be paid up to 5 times daily when signed up for Instant Pay with a valid debit card.
How to Sign Up
Want to sign up to drive with Uber? Here’s how. heck to see if Uber is active in your city. Then supply all the necessary information and check to ensure you have all the necessary requirements, as mentioned above. If so, sign up online.
As I mentioned earlier, you should know if your account has been activated in a week or two. This is how long it takes to get your background check completed. After that, sign in and start driving!
Driving with Uber is easy, and if you know a few tips and tricks, it can be a great side hustle for some extra money. After all, chances are you’d be driving around anyway. So, why not add some passengers and earn some money in the meantime.
Do you know anyone who drives with Uber? Have they been successful? Have you thought about driving with Uber?
