Uber has been one of the successful rides sharing companies globally, with over 4 million drivers in 63 countries that are primarily self-employed or individual contractors. The company offers great opportunities for people who want to start their own business with minimal startup costs.
Most of the time, Uber drivers can work at their own pace and on their own time, depending on their availability. Uber also offers an excellent value proposition for entrepreneurs, such as great income, training, trip allocations, and cash advance for Uber drivers‘ assistance.
These lucrative offers of the ride-sharing company continuously attract more entrepreneurs who want to take advantage of the business opportunity. In this article, we’ve created a step-by-step guide so you can start earning money driving for Uber.
How to Start Earning with Uber
Uber drivers usually earn $15 to $20 per hour. Whether you want to drive full-time or part-time, follow these steps to become an Uber driver:
Set up Your Vehicle
Uber is a ride-sharing company which means that the first thing that you need to have is a vehicle. Depending on the state or city you’re driving in, Uber has various vehicle requirements that you have to comply with. The required vehicle for Uber needs to be at least 15 years old or newer and must also have four doors that can transport a minimum of 4 passengers.
There are also restrictions, such as the vehicle that you have to use should not be the one that is rebuilt or reconstructed.
You should also ensure that you understand the different types of Uber vehicles you can use based on your city. You can choose among the most common types, such as UberGo, UberX, and UberXL. You can learn more about Uber’s vehicle requirements and types here.
Set Up Your Funds
Setting up the funds that you’re going to invest in building your business is essential, especially if you don’t have your own vehicle. However, you don’t have to worry because there are ways to help you start your business without having enough funds.
- Rent A Car
Although UBER restricts drivers from using rental cars, Uber has approved rental companies that let you rent a car to use. Rental companies such as Fair, Hertz, HyreCar, Getaround, and Mayven Gig partner with Uber to help self-employed and individual contractual drivers to start their business. You can check out the prices and other details about these rental car companies here.
- Cash Advance
Some companies offer cash advances for Uber drivers like Giggle Finance. They provide financial funding for independent contractors to start their own Uber businesses. If you’re having trouble financing your business, you can seek these companies for a cash advance.
Get All the Documents Ready
Starting an Uber business also requires you to get all the legal documents ready to submit online or at Uber’s physical office. Here are some of the papers needed to submit:
- Uber still requires CDL or Commercial Driving licenses in various states. So, be sure to check if CDL is required in your area so that you can apply for it.
- Driver’s License since you’re driving a vehicle, it’s necessary.
- Police Verification
- Registration Certificate of the car or NOC (if you don’t own the vehicle)
- Vehicle Insurance
- Profile Photo
- Proof of Residency
You can also check out the detailed required documents and qualifications of Uber drivers on Uber’s website.
Apply for Business Uber Online or Visit Uber’s Office
Once you’ve ensured that you have been qualified as a driver, your vehicle is eligible, and all the documents are ready, it’s time to apply. The online application process is as simple as filling in all the information needed and uploading the scanned files or documents. After providing all the information, you can submit the form and wait for Uber’s confirmation and approval.
Alternatively, when you choose to go to Uber’s physical office in your region, you have to bring hard copies of all the required documents. The staff in their office will then assist your sign-up process as Uber’s business partner.
Attend Uber’s Mandatory Training
After completing all the requirements and getting approved by Uber, you have to attend the mandatory training provided for new drivers or owners. It’s essential to help you understand the policies and regulations you need to follow as an Uber partner driver. Moreover, the training will help understand how Uber’s app works, your earnings, and other important matters.
Start Earning with Uber
Once you’ve completed the training, Uber will allow you to drive passengers to their destination and earn money.