Want to escape the nine-to-five grind but don’t know where to start? You’ve got more options than you think!

One of those options is to drive for Uber.

There’s no way you haven’t used Uber or at least heard of them. This popular ride-sharing app is available in 600 cities and 65 countries around the world.

Want to learn how to become an Uber driver but aren’t sure if you’re up to the task? We’re going to break down everything you need to know — keep reading.

1. Uber Driver Requirements

Before you even apply, make sure you meet all of the Uber driver requirements. In the US, requirements can differ by state and even city.

The basics that Uber requires is that their drivers are 21 years old with three or more years of driving experience. You can also be 23 with one year of driving experience.

No matter what, all drivers need to have these items:

• A valid driver’s license
• A perfect driving record
• No criminal history
• Valid car registration and license plates

Checked every item off the list? You’re ready to move on to step two.

2. Uber Insurance

You will need to have car insurance in general but Uber offers insurance as well. The catch is that it’s only active when you’re logged into the app and working.

There are two types of Uber insurance: while waiting on a ride and while driving a passenger.

When you’re logged in waiting for a ride, it only covers secondary losses not covered by your own insurance. You’ll have 50/100/25 limits through contingent liability coverage.

When you’re driving a customer, Uber offers uninsured/underinsured bodily injury and commercial liability insurance with a $1 million limit.

3. Uber Car Requirements

Just like driving requirements, your car is subject to whatever is required in your state and city. Check to make sure your car is up to standard.

Two door cars are never accepted; your car must have four doors. You’re required to have four seat belts for all passengers including the driver.

Typically, cars should be at most ten years old. Your car can’t be restored or salvaged either.

If your car isn’t up to snuff, does that mean your Uber career is over? Not necessarily.

Apply anyways to see if you pass the background test. If you pass, then you can look into leasing or purchasing a car to become a driver.

4. Get Your Car Inspected

If your car meets these basic requirements, you’ll still have to take it in to get inspected. You can do this at many Uber activation centers or at a state-licensed auto repair shop.

Be prepared to shell out about $30 for an auto repair shop inspection. If you go to an Uber center, it’s free.

What are they going to look for? They’ll check your brakes, tires, seat belts, lights, and more.

Some states give Uber drivers a 30 day grace period to fix any issues. Check your local state requirements or ask Uber to be sure.

5. How to Become an Uber Driver

You’ve got your documents all lined up and your car passed with flying colors. What’s next?

You’ll have to apply to become a driver. Here’s each step of that process:

• Fill out the online Uber driver application
• Get your background screening
• Wait for Uber to contact you (can be up to ten days)
• Upload all of your documents
• Wait for activation

Now you should be able to access the driver mode in the app itself. If you’re stuck in any part of the process, reach out to Uber but try to be patient.

6. What to Expect as an Uber Driver

Uber has some in-app training to help you learn how to accept and give rides. You’ll also have access to tons of information that will help you be successful.

Use your app to plan rides, monitor your ratings, see how much you’ve earned,  and cash out your earnings. Speaking of money, you should expect to earn around $10-20 an hour.

7. Making Money as an Uber Drivers

Surprised it’s not more? There’s a lot of factors that go into your earnings.

You’ll have to figure out which hours work best for you. If you’re stuck only driving after your main job or during certain hours, your earnings might be limited.

With 100 million rides per year, you’re bound to have passengers one way or another. Figuring out when peak hours are and when surge pricing goes into effect can maximize your earning potential.

If you’re not happy with your Uber earnings at first, you can always supplement with an extra job, like being a truck driver. A truck driver salary might be your main bread and butter and you can keep ridesharing on the side.

Tips for Success

Once you’ve got the basics down, you can do a few other things to earn higher ratings and get more rides. Use some or all of these tips to really amp up your income.

First off, introverts can be great Uber drivers, but this is a job where extroverts shine. Being a people person can help put your passengers at ease.

Of course, read the passenger’s body language. If they don’t seem like they want to chat, let them guide the conversation.

Know quirky things about wherever you live and point them out when you drive past. Offer snacks, gum and mints, or little toiletries to riders, especially if you pick up a lot of tourists who just got into town.

Set yourself apart with a cool tricked out ride or something fun like tons of hula dancers or mini lights on your dashboard. Standing out is the name of the game!

Make Uber Work for You

Follow all of our steps detailing how to become an Uber driver and you’re sure to succeed. Ride sharing is a great way to supplement your job or work part-time, but you can also work hard and make it your full-time gig. 

Having this kind of flexibility in a job is something that many people dream of. You might like it, you might not, but you’ll never know until you try it out.

Liked our guide to becoming an Uber driver? Check out our blog for more useful tips to live your best life.