How to Become an Uber Eats Driver in the U.S.- Driver & Vehicle Requirements Explained

Why Uber Eats Is a Top Pick for Earning Extra Cash

Let’s kick it off — what’s Uber Eats, anyway?

Uber Eats? Yep, it’s the food delivery side of Uber that’s been buzzing all over the U.S. — With thousands of restaurants plugged into the app, drivers play a huge role in getting those hot meals from kitchen to doorstep. It’s fast, super easy to use, and fits right in with the whole digital lifestyle thing Americans love.

Ever wonder why so many folks are giving Uber Eats a shot? It’s not just about the cash — it’s the freedom, the vibe, and how easy it is to hit the ground running.

Here’s the scoop:

Total freedom: No shifts. No schedule. Clock in whenever it fits your vibe — whether it’s a quick hour between classes or a full-on hustle till sunset, it’s totally up to you. Perfect for side gigs or filling in free hours

Zero experience needed: No delivery background? No problem. As long as you’ve got a ride and a driver’s license, you’re in

Getting started’s a breeze — just hop online, fill out a few forms, and you could be out there making deliveries in no time

You call the shots: You decide where, when, and how often you deliver. No micromanagers, no drama

Multiple ways to deliver: Got a car? Cool. A bike or scooter? Also works. Depending on your city, you’ve got options

Who’s Uber Eats perfect for?

If you’re…

College students juggling classes and ramen budgets? This gig’s got your back

A freelancer riding the income rollercoaster

A part-timer with chunks of free time

Not into fake smiles, awkward breakroom chats, or bosses breathing down your neck? This solo ride might be your kind of freedom

Literally anyone who wants quick cash without a big investment

…this gig might be right up your alley.

What you’ll learn in this guide

Kick back for a sec — I’m gonna lay it all out for you, nice and easy, no fluff, just what actually matters

What you gotta have to start delivering with Uber Eats right here in the U.S. — nothing wild, just the essentials

The kinds of vehicles that are good to go for delivery

A step-by-step guide to getting started

The documents you’ll need (don’t worry — nothing crazy)

Tips to help you get approved smoothly and fast

By the time you hit that last line, you’ll know exactly how to get started and start making money — no headache, no hand-holding. Feeling like this might be your next side hustle? Let’s break it down step by step — keep scrollin’.

Requirements to Become an Uber Eats Driver

Minimum Age

Car & Scooter: You’ve gotta be at least 19 years old
Bike deliveries: The minimum is 18 years old

This is the general Uber policy across the U.S., but heads-up—it might vary slightly depending on your state’s local rules.

U.S. Driver’s License (SIM)

Planning to deliver using a car or scooter? You’ll definitely need a driver’s license — Uber doesn’t play when it comes to that stuff.

Riding a bike? Some cities are chill about it — if you’re on a bike, they might not even ask for a license. Just depends on where you’re riding

Your license needs to be valid and active in the state you’re driving in

Legally Allowed to Work in the U.S.

You must have authorization to work in the U.S. — that includes citizens, permanent residents, or folks with valid work visas

Uber’s gonna need your Social Security Number (SSN) when they run the usual background screening — it’s part of the standard steps

Smartphone & Bank Account

You’ll need a smartphone (Android or iPhone) to run the Uber Driver app

Also required: an active bank account or debit card so Uber can send you your earnings

Make sure your email and phone number are current — they’re needed for account setup and alerts

Identity Verification (Selfie & Docs)

Uber will ask you to take a real-time selfie right inside the app

This is used to match your face with your driver’s license or official ID

It’s part of Uber’s security system called “Real-time ID Check”

Vehicle Insurance

If you’re driving a car or scooter, having insurance isn’t optional — it’s a must. But hey, if you’re biking it out, you’re off the hook

You need personal auto insurance that meets your state’s minimum liability coverage

Your name must be listed on the policy

Some states require a special rideshare or delivery endorsement on your insurance — check your local rules

Here’s the extra peace of mind:

Once you’re logged in and out on the road, Uber’s got your back with extra insurance to keep things covered.

If you’re online but haven’t accepted an order yet → limited liability coverage
And once you’re mid-delivery, that coverage jumps big time — up to a cool $1 million while you’re on the job

Important Note: Your personal insurance is still your responsibility. If you’re out doing deliveries but your personal policy doesn’t cover that kind of thing, don’t be surprised if your claim hits a dead end. So don’t skip this part.

What’s the Deal with Uber Eats Background Checks?

So, What Is a Background Check Anyway?

Thinking about hitting the road with Uber Eats? Hold up — before you start dropping off orders, there’s one gate you’ve gotta get through first: a background check. Yeah, it's a thing. Basically, it’s Uber’s way of making sure you’re a safe and trustworthy person to hit the road with them.

Uber won’t be the one digging through your records — they leave that job to an outside service called Checkr, a company that specializes in background screenings. These folks go through your ID and legal history to confirm you're good to go.

Why all the digging? Well, it’s about safety. At the core, it’s just about keeping things cool for everyone — folks ordering their food, restaurants hustling in the kitchen, and yeah, Uber making sure things don’t blow up in their face. No one wants to order a burrito from someone with a shady past, right?

What Exactly Are They Looking At?

Here’s what they check when you apply:

First up, they’ll double-check your personal details — full name, birth date, and your Social Security Number — just to make sure everything lines up and nothing looks sketchy

Criminal record – Uber looks for serious offenses like:

Assault, violence, or any kind of sexual crime

Major fraud or theft

Got any drug-related run-ins with the law? If they happened within the past 7 years, they might show up — though how much that matters really depends on your state’s rules

Rolling with a car or scooter? Then yeah, your driving record’s gonna get some extra attention too — they’ll want to see how you’ve been handling the road.

DUIs (driving under the influence)
Major accidents
Suspended or revoked licenses
Repeated traffic violations

Bike delivery? Good news — driving records don’t usually matter much there.

How Long Does It Take?

Usually somewhere between 3 to 10 business days — but that’s just a ballpark.

It can be quicker in some areas or drag on if:

Your info’s incomplete or mismatched

You’ve got a super common name (extra verification needed)

Every now and then, things can slow down — especially if local courts or older record systems are dragging their feet with updates

So yeah, patience is key here.

Can You Fail a Background Check?

Yep, it can happen.

You might not make it through if:

You’ve got serious criminal charges within the past few years
You’ve got ongoing legal issues
Your driving history raises red flags for a delivery gig

If you don’t pass, Uber will shoot you an official notice — and you’ll also get a copy of the report from Checkr, so you can see exactly what came up.

How to Boost Your Chances of Passing

Want to keep things smooth? Here’s how to stack the odds in your favor:

Triple-check your personal info — full name, address, SSN — make sure it matches your official docs

Make sure you’re putting down an address where you actually live now — and don’t forget a phone number that’s active and easy to reach

If you’ve moved between cities or states, be upfront and include the full history

Don’t even think about using a fake name or someone else’s Social — that kind of move can get you kicked off the platform for good, no second chances

Stay in the loop by checking your status right from the Uber Driver app — or just keep an eye on your inbox for updates

No reason to stress — if everything lines up and your background’s clean, chances are you’ll cruise through without a hitch.

Yeah, we know — hearing “background check” can make it feel way more serious than it really is. You just wanna hit the road and start making money, right? Totally fair. But if you’ve got a clean record and all your info checks out, you’ll most likely sail right through. No need to panic.

Think of it as one simple step to help keep the whole Uber Eats crew — from the folks ordering to the ones delivering — feeling secure and taken care of.

Vehicle Requirements for Uber Eats

Thinking of hitting the streets with Uber Eats? Before you jump on that delivery hustle, let’s break down what kind of wheels you need — whether you’re driving, scooting, or pedaling your way to extra cash.

Car Delivery Requirements

So, planning to deliver by car? Here’s what Uber expects:

You’ve got options — whether you’re rolling in a compact car, a hatchback, a roomy SUV, or even something like a van, as long as it’s not beat up and can handle the streets, you’re golden. As long as it’s not falling apart, you’re good

No strict vehicle age limit, but it has to be in solid, roadworthy condition

The car should either be registered in your name or you’ll need permission from the actual owner

Got insurance? You’ll need proof of active coverage that meets your state’s minimum requirements

Registration’s gotta be current and legit — expired tags are a no-go

Using a rental? It better be from one of Uber’s official partners like Hertz or Getaround — standard rentals won’t cut it

Scooter & Motorcycle Delivery Requirements

Thinking of zipping around town on two wheels? Here’s what’s up:

Your scooter should be 50cc or under and able to hit speeds around 30 mph

You’ll need to be 19 or older if you’re planning to hit the road on two wheels — that’s the age cutoff to qualify

A valid U.S. driver’s license is a must

Oh, and don’t skip the insurance part — your coverage’s gotta be current and ready to go if you wanna stay in the game

Don’t forget to select “Delivery by scooter” when signing up

Heads up: not every city allows scooters, so it depends on your local zone.

Bicycle Delivery Requirements

Wanna skip gas entirely and pedal your way to some side income? Cool! But this option isn’t available everywhere:

Only certain cities offer bike delivery — like NYC, SF, or Boston

You need to be 18 or older

Forget the paperwork — no license, no insurance needed. Just hop on your bike, bring the grind, and you’re good to roll

Just choose “Delivery by bicycle” during the sign-up

You do have to follow local bike laws and stick to the right lanes

Pack smart — a thermal bag’s your best friend, and don’t skip the safety stuff like a helmet and lights. Make sure drivers can spot you from a mile away — better to light up like a Christmas tree than risk getting missed in traffic. Safety’s still a thing!

So... Which Vehicle’s the Best Fit for You?

Each delivery method comes with its own set of pros and cons, depending on your lifestyle and your city vibes.

Cars are great if you want to cover more ground and handle multiple orders at once. Rain, wind, or whatever the sky throws at you — being in a car means you’re rolling in comfort while the weather does its thing outside. The downside? Gas prices and the eternal struggle of finding parking — especially in big cities.

Scooters? If you're dealing with packed streets and tight corners, scooters are a game-changer — light on gas, easy to weave through traffic, and no more circling the block for parking. But long distances or bad weather? Yeah, not exactly ideal.

And then there’s the bike — the ultimate budget-friendly option. No fuel, no parking worries, and perfect for quick trips around the city core. But hey, you’ll break a sweat, and you better be geared up to stay safe on the road.

---> Pick the ride that fits your city, your budget, and your comfort zone. Whether you’re behind the wheel or pushing pedals, there’s always a way to turn that ride into real earnings — your grind, your rules.

Signing up for Uber Eats and wondering if a vehicle inspection is part of the deal? Don’t worry — here’s what actually happens.

If you're signing up just to deliver food with Uber Eats, good news — you can skip the whole vehicle inspection thing. No one’s checking your car, scooter, or bike for scratches or squeaky brakes.

But here's the catch — make sure your account is set up as Eats-only, not UberX or rideshare. If your account accidentally got linked to rideshare services, the system might start asking for an inspection, even though you don’t need one just for deliveries.

If that’s the case, you’ve got two options:

Reach out to Uber support and ask them to switch your account to Eats-only,
Or just start fresh and create a new Uber Eats account dedicated to deliveries.

Inspections only come into play if you’re driving people around (aka rideshare). For food delivery? Nah, you're in the clear.

How to Sign Up as an Uber Eats Driver in the U.S.

Step One: Head Over to the Official Sign-Up Page

First things first — grab your phone, hop on the Play Store, and download the Uber Driver app. That’s your gateway to the road.

Once you’ve got it, open it up and hit “Sign up to deliver.” Enter your email, full name, and pick the city where you wanna start delivering.

Choose How You’ll Deliver

Now you’ll need to pick your ride. Rolling with four wheels, gliding on two, or just keeping it classic with pedals? Car, scooter, or good old bicycle — whatever gets you moving, it’s enough to start making money with Uber Eats. Pick the ride that fits your daily flow — whether you’re weaving through downtown rush or cruising quiet streets.

Step Two: Create Your Uber Driver Account

Next up — let’s get you an account. Just fill in some basic info like your full name, date of birth, phone number, and an active email.

Set a password you won’t forget, then verify it through email or text. Boom, you’re in.

Upload That Selfie

Snap a clear, front-facing photo of yourself. No hats, no sunglasses — Uber needs to see your beautiful face. Make sure that pic actually looks like you — clear face, no filters, no hiding behind shades or hats.

Step Three: Add Your Vehicle Info & Upload Required Docs

Now tell Uber what kind of vehicle you’ll be using — car, scooter, or bike.

Then upload the supporting docs, depending on your ride:

A valid U.S. driver’s license
Proof of active insurance (if you're using a car or scooter)
Vehicle registration (cars only)
Your Social Security Number (SSN) for the background check

Step Four: Wait for the Background Check

Uber teams up with companies like Checkr to run a background check. Don’t stress it — they’re just double-checking everything’s cool before handing you the keys to start earning.

This can take anywhere from 3 to 10 business days, but you can always track the status right in the Uber Driver app.

Step Five: Real-Time ID Check (Say Cheese!)

Once your account is nearly good to go, Uber might ask you to snap a real-time selfie from inside the app. This is just to match it with your profile photo and documents.

Uber may ask you to do this randomly while you're online too — it’s part of how they keep the platform safe and secure for everyone.

Step Six:You’re all set — fire up the app and start makin’ those deliveries roll in!

If everything’s greenlit (docs, checks, ID — all of it), you’ll get a notification letting you know your account is now active.

Once you're in, open up the app and get ready to grab your first food run — it's go time! You're officially in the game!

Bonus Tip: Get Yourself a Delivery Bag

Uber’s not gonna make you carry a thermal bag — but hey, keeping those fries hot and drinks chill? Totally worth it for happy customers.

Wanna snag a bag? You’ve got options — grab one through Uber partners, hit up Amazon, or check out Uber’s own gear site.

Already an Uber Driver? Here’s How to Turn On Uber Eats

So you’re already out there driving with Uber—maybe doing UberX, UberXL, or Uber Comfort? Good news: you don’t need to make a brand-new account just to start delivering with Uber Eats. No extra accounts, no messy steps—just a couple taps in your Uber Driver app, and you’re ready to roll with Uber Eats.

Wanna get started with deliveries? Just follow this simple walkthrough—nothing complicated.

Open your Uber Driver app

Tap the Account tab

Go to Work Hub

Hit “Deliver food with Uber Eats”

Agree to the terms and conditions

Pick the type of vehicle you’ll use for delivery

That’s it! If your docs are still good to go, you probably won’t need to verify anything again

Wait… Why Do I Need to Pick a Vehicle Again?

Yeah, we get it—it sounds a little weird. You’ve got your car set up for Uber already, so having to tap it again might seem kinda pointless. Here’s the deal: Uber just needs you to confirm which vehicle you plan to use for food deliveries. It’s not about re-registering or changing anything—it’s more of a heads-up for the system.

Let’s say you’ve been using your car for UberX—when setting up Uber Eats, you’ll still need to choose “car” again. Yeah, it might seem a little off—but there’s actually a good reason behind it. So the app doesn’t assume you’re biking around town and starts giving you tiny orders meant for bicycles. Trust me, you don’t wanna drive across town for $3 fries.

After you’re all set, food delivery requests will start rolling in through the same app—no extra downloads or apps needed. And yep, you can bounce between rides and food deliveries anytime it fits your schedule. Super simple.

Heads-Up: Can’t See the Delivery Option?

If you don’t see “Work Hub” or the “Deliver food” option, don’t freak out. Chances are, your account’s still getting fully set up—or maybe your app just needs a quick update to the newest version.

Still no luck? Just reach out to Uber Support right from the app—they can help you get Uber Eats up and running.

Why Your Uber Eats Application Might Get Rejected

Let’s be real — signing up for Uber Eats sounds simple, right? You toss in your info, snap a few pics of your documents, and start checking your phone like it owes you something — waiting for that green light to go make some cash. But then… silence. Or worse — a big fat rejection.

Don’t sweat it though — Uber’s not ghosting you for no reason. There’s usually a solid explanation behind every “Nope” they send. And the good news? Most of it’s totally preventable if you know what to look out for.

Blurry or Invalid Documents

This one trips up a lot of folks. If your license pic looks like it was taken in a thunderstorm or your insurance doc’s shining like a disco ball, Uber’s system is just gonna nope out. Uber’s picky with documents — they want the whole thing, clean and sharp like a fresh haircut. No blurry edges, no laser beam flash, and please — don’t make them play detective just to read your docs.

Make sure the whole thing’s sharp — edge to edge, no blur, no mystery zones. If they can’t read it at a glance, you’re not getting through.

Uber (and sometimes their human reviewers) need super clear, full-frame images — no cropped corners, no light flares, and nothing covering key info like expiration dates.

You Didn’t Pass the Background Check

Yep, Uber’s gotta run a background check — usually through companies like Checkr — to make sure you’re good to go. If you’ve got a serious criminal history (think assault, theft, DUI), or a sketchy driving record with too many violations, that could be a dealbreaker. Even multiple speeding tickets in recent years can cause problems.

Your Info Doesn’t Match Across Documents

Let’s say your name on your license says “Jonathan A. Smith” but your insurance just says “Jon Smith.” That kind of mismatch can throw up a red flag in Uber’s system. Same goes for addresses, birthdays, or even typos. Consistency is everything when you’re dealing with automated ID checks.

Your Vehicle Doesn’t Meet Requirements

Just because it’s got wheels doesn’t mean it’s Uber-ready. Trying to sign up with a sketchy ride or something off the radar? Uber’s not gonna be cool with that — they’ve got standards, and your wheels better show up ready. Yeah, don’t expect a welcome mat. If your wheels don’t check all their boxes, you’ll be stuck in park before you even start. If you’re trying to sign up with a rental car that’s not from one of Uber’s approved partners, or you’re riding a motorcycle that’s too old (or too mysterious), you might get rejected.

Oh — and don’t forget to make sure your insurance is still active. Expired coverage = instant “No.”

You’re Too Young

There’s an age limit, and Uber’s not playing around with it. If you’re driving a car or riding a scooter, you’ve gotta be at least 19. Biking? You can sign up at 18. Uber’s gonna peek at your ID to see if you’re old enough, so yeah — no point trying to bend the truth.

If the numbers don’t add up, they’re not letting you in. You could have a full beard or look like you’ve been adulting for years — doesn’t matter. Uber’s only checking the numbers on your ID, not your face. Paper wins, not your baby face or beard game.

SSN Didn’t Check Out

Uber has to verify your Social Security Number (SSN) — it’s part of the background screening and ID check. If you typo’d it, used a made-up number, or entered someone else’s SSN, the system will catch it — and your application’s going straight into the rejection pile. No second chances on this one.

Get Signed Up on Uber Eats Without the Wait or the Headache

Trying to get your Uber Eats account up and running without delays or rejection headaches? We got you. Wanna skip the hassle and get things right from the jump? Here’s how to set up your Uber Eats account like a pro.

Follow these simple but crucial tips to get approved fast—and hit the road with zero stress.

Snap Crystal Clear Docs (No Blurry Stuff, Please)

First thing—your documents need to be sharp and readable. Make sure the lighting’s chill—no harsh glare, funky shadows, or anything that makes your docs look sketchy.

Skip those old-school black-and-white scans. Use your phone camera, not a scanner

Keep the full shot—don’t trim off stuff like your license number or when it expires. Uber wants the whole picture

Make sure everything looks clean, full frame, and easy to read

Make Sure All Your Info Matches—Exactly

Since Uber’s system scans your docs on its own, all your info better match up nice and clean—or it could throw things off.

Make sure the details—like your full name, birthday, and address—match across all your documents. If something’s off, even just a letter, Uber’s system might freak out

Got a middle name on your license but not on your insurance? Fix that first before you apply

Even tiny typos can confuse the system and delay your approval.

It’s best to roll with your own car—or one from a rental company that Uber actually works with.

Planning to borrow your friend’s car or grab any random rental? Might wanna think twice before you do. Be careful with that.

Only use rental companies that Uber actually partners with (like Hertz, Getaround, or Fair)

If you’re borrowing a friend’s or family member’s car, get written permission and make sure the insurance is still valid under a proper name

Honestly, it’s just easier and faster if the car’s yours—with all the paperwork in your name.

Follow Every Step in the App—Don’t Just Click Next

Slow down a bit. The app walks you through everything, so take your time.

If the app tells you to take a selfie, make sure your face is front and center—skip the filters, ditch the mask, and keep it sharp
Don’t skip the “Review Your Info” section before submitting. Double-check everything!

Don’t rely on your inbox—pop open the app now and then to see if there’s anything new waiting for you

Uber doesn’t always send an email if there’s an issue. Your account status might silently change in the app.

Give the app a quick check every day—sometimes updates show up there first, and you don’t wanna miss anything important

If something seems stuck or confusing, hit up Uber Support through the app—they’re usually pretty quick to respond.

Pro Tips to Crush It as an Uber Eats Driver

Got your account up and running? Sweet. Now it’s time to make that money move. But hey, don’t just wing it — if you want steady orders, solid ratings, and real income, there are a few smart strategies that'll keep you ahead of the game.

Hit the Hot Hours: Lunch & Dinner Rush

Want more pings? Time it right.

Prime hours? Think lunchtime cravings and dinner rush. Between 11 AM–2 PM and 5 PM–9 PM, orders start flying in non-stop — that’s your window to rack 'em up!

Top days? Friday night, Saturday, and Sunday — weekend warriors love their food delivered

Skip the dead hours (like mid-afternoon) unless you’ve got a specific plan

Keep That Rating High with Friendly Service

Good vibes go a long way.

Always say a quick hi when handing off food — no need to overdo it

Can’t find the drop-off spot? Shoot them a quick message in-app

Never ghost-drop the order — snap a pic and let them know it’s delivered

Use a Thermal Bag to Keep Food on Point

Not required, but majorly recommended.

Keeps hot stuff hot and cold stuff chill — customers love it

When customers are happy, your stars go up — and so does the chance they’ll throw in a little extra cash as a thank-you

You can grab a bag from Uber, Amazon, or wherever works for you

Don’t Be the Driver Who Cancels Everything

If you back out of too many orders, Uber might start paying extra attention — and trust me, that’s not the kind of spotlight you want.

Sure, it’s okay to cancel if the restaurant's closed, the address looks shady, or the trip’s just way too far

Just don’t make it a habit

A solid acceptance rate = more consistent order flow

Turn On Notifications & Maybe Try Auto-Accept

Don’t miss out because your phone’s on silent.

Make sure your sound’s on so you don’t miss those order pings the moment they pop up

Some drivers use auto-accept so they can just focus on driving without tapping every time

Just double-check the orders make sense — distance, time, and all that

Take Advantage of Uber Promotions & Quests

Uber sometimes drops special goals — like finishing a set number of deliveries for a little extra on top. Knock those out when it’s busy, and you’ll see your wallet smile.

Stuff like “Complete 5 deliveries, get a $15 bonus”

You’ll find them under the “Promotions” tab in your Uber Driver app

Stack quests with busy hours and boom — your earnings shoot up

Stay Prepped & Keep Your Ride Ready

Being ready saves you time and stress.

Keep your car, bike, or scooter in tip-top shape

Always bring: phone charger, water, wet wipes, and a power bank

Check your gas level or battery before you hit the road

Ready to Start Driving with Uber Eats Today?

If you’ve made it this far, it’s pretty clear—you’re seriously thinking about jumping into the Uber Eats game. And honestly? Solid move. You’ve got freedom, low entry barriers, and zero drama—perfect if you’re just trying to stack extra income without messing up your whole routine.

Whether you're a college student trying to cover books and burritos, a 9-to-5 worker hunting for a side hustle, or someone ready to go all in and make this your full-time gig—Uber Eats lets you do things your way. No boss breathing down your neck. No pressure-packed quotas. Just you, your time, your grind.

Now you know:

✓ What it takes to become a driver (for you and your vehicle)

✓ How to sign up and get activated

✓ Why accounts get rejected—and how to dodge that mess

✓ Smart little hacks to help your account get the green light without the wait

✓ And smart moves to crush it as a top driver

So... what are you waiting for?

Head over to the official Uber Driver site or grab the app, and kick off your first delivery today. Take that first delivery, feel it out—next thing you know, you’re finding your own rhythm and making it work your way.

Are you ready? Let’s ride.