Lyft vs. Uber Driver Requirements

With the potential to earn anytime, anywhere, and set your own schedule, becoming a driver with Lyft or Uber sounds like a good deal. But whether you’re looking for a quick side hustle or something more full-time, you must meet a few requirements before making money as a driver.

If you’re wondering what the requirements are to become a driver with Uber or Lyft, you’re not alone. Read on to learn everything you need to know.

Your Driver’s License

You’ll need your driver’s license for both platforms. That’s the first and most obvious requirement. But you’ll also need some experience under your belt. With Uber, that means at least one year of licensed driving experience if you’re over 25. If you’re under 25, you’ll need at least three years of driving experience.

Lyft, on the other hand, follows the state rules. Certain states require at least one year of licensed driving experience if you’re 23 or older and at least three years if you’re 22 or younger. So check your state to see what applies to you.

Driving Record Check

Both Lyft and Uber will check your driving record. Applicants will need to provide proof of their driver’s license. If you’re going with Lyft, you can submit your certified driving record. Don’t have one? That’s no problem. You can request an accredited form through the state DMV website. It may take some time to arrive, so you should factor that in before applying.

The background check for Uber and Lyft will look for the following:

• Traffic violations
• Accident reports
• DUIs
• Reckless Driving

If there are minor traffic violations, you can take driving classes to remove these from your vehicle record. Major offenses will likely disqualify you from becoming a driver.

Required Documents

Get ready to gather a few more documents. Your driver’s license isn’t quite enough.

For Uber, you must submit proof of residency in your city and state, proof of vehicle insurance, and a driver profile photo. Lyft requires you to submit your insurance and registration information.

Submitting this information is easy. You can upload the documents when you’re applying. Make sure your records are up-to-date and not expired. Expired documents won’t be accepted, and it will extend your wait time. Ensure all names are legible and the images you upload are clear.

Screening

Uber and Lyft require all their applicants to undergo an online screening process. The process is meant to review your criminal background. You’ll have to provide your social security number for the background check to take place. A credit check won’t be performed, so that won’t affect whether you get hired.

At Lyft, the background check is carried out by a third-party company called Checkr, Inc. Uber uses Checkr, HireRight, and Samba Safety. You can check the status by logging into the applicant portal if Checkr is being used. However, suppose Uber is using HireRight or Samba Safety. You must sign into your Uber account and contact Uber support to check the status. Uber will also provide you with a copy of the completed report.

You’ll automatically become ineligible to drive on the Lyft and Uber platforms if you’re listed on the National Sex Offender Registry database. Also, suppose you’ve been convicted of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. In that case, if you have any prior violent offenses (arson, homicide), sexual offenses, and theft or property damage offenses, you won’t be able to drive.

The safety of passengers is a significant priority for both companies. For that reason, Uber will continue to run background checks on their drivers. They do so at least once a year. The screening frequency depends on the city in which you live. However, you’ll receive a notification when the screening is required.

Vehicle Requirements

Cities in the U.S. have their own regulations for vehicles. After signing up, Uber will provide more information about how you’ll meet these requirements based on where you live. Uber and Lyft require a four-door vehicle that can accommodate at least four passengers and a minimum of five seatbelts (maximum of eight).

Inspection

You’ll need to inspect your vehicle to ensure it is safe for passengers and other persons on the road. Suppose you don’t have a vehicle or are worried your car might not be inspected. In that case, there are alternatives available to you.

Uber also lets you rent a car through Hertz, Avis, Getaround, and Kinto Share. Learn more about car rentals (deposit, insurance, and other information) with Uber by clicking here. Lyft allows their drivers to rent a car through Express Drive. Click here to learn more about Lyft’s Express Drive.

You might also be interested in renting a car if you’re tired of paying for gas and want to use an electric vehicle. Or you don’t have a car at all. Whatever the case, you can choose from packages with insurance, mileage, and other options by referring to the links above.

Getting Started

If this sounds good to you, all you need to do is follow the steps below to get started.

For Uber

1. Sign up to drive. You’ll need to enter your phone number or email.
   
2. Upload the document when prompted.
   
3. Give your consent for the screening process.
   

If your application is successful, the Uber app will activate the driver status. Now you’re set to accept rider requests and make money.

For Lyft

1. Go to the Lyft website.
   
2. Enter your phone number and check whether you have or car or not.
   
3. Then begin the application process. Upload your documents and consent for screening.
   

Once you’re approved with Lyft or Uber, you can start immediately. Open the app, and you’ll be matched with somebody looking for a ride in your area. If you’re curious about what it might be like at Lyft, check out this video.

FAQs

How long does the application process take?

It shouldn’t take more than 30 minutes to fill out the essential information in the application form (name, address, etc.). However, after that, Lyft and Uber will perform a background check which can take a few days. And remember, if that all works out and you get onboard, you’ll have to inspect your vehicle. The whole process could take anywhere from one to two weeks.

Are Lyft and Uber safe?

Lyft and Uber are committed to driver and passenger safety. Lyft offers a 24/7 service by phone and email, and you can always contact 911 directly from the Lyft app. Uber has a built-in technology lets you stay connected to the Uber team, emergency authorities, and your loved ones.

How much money will I make?

It depends on when you work and where you live. However, drivers reportedly earn anywhere from $5-$30 per hour before accounting for expenses like gas and maintenance. But you can maximize your earnings by driving a hybrid vehicle or looking at the tips in this article to help increase your salary.

Lyft and Uber Driver Requirements

The requirements to become an Uber and Lyft driver are basic. You’ll need a license, insurance, registration, and paperwork showing your car is safe to drive. If it’s not or you don’t have a car, you can always rent one. And don’t forget, Uber and Lyft will check your driving record and whether or not you have a criminal background. After all, both companies have a responsibility to ensure passenger safety. As long as the check goes well, you should be on your way to earning money driving in no time at all.

Have you ever applied as a driver for Uber or Lyft? If so, what was your experience like? Let us know in the comments section below.