Thinking of Driving with Uber? This Is What You Need to Know
Written byDo you love driving? What about a job where you set your own schedule and are your own boss? If so, then perhaps it’s time to consider driving with Uber. Here’s how you can partner with the company and what you need to know before getting started.
What are the essentials?
Exact requirements vary slightly from city-to-city, but to be a potential Uber driver-partner you will need to have — no surprise here — a valid driver’s license, personal four-door vehicle made in 2000 or after (2005 in some cities) in excellent condition and possessing a clean title, and personal auto insurance and registration. You also have to be at least 21-years-old.
Before you can start driving, you will have to pass an online background check that will scan the last seven years of your driving record looking for no DUI or drug-related offences, fatal accidents, history of reckless driving, or criminal record.
How does insurance work?
Drivers are covered by their own insurance when they are offline. As soon as a driver accepts a trip, until it concludes, they are protected by a commercial automobile insurance policy with $1 million of liability per incident.
In addition, Uber’s policy offers $1 million uninsured/underinsured motorist bodily injury coverage to all occupants of the rideshare vehicle in the event another motorist causes an accident without adequate insurance (i.e. a hit-and-run).
If a ride-sharing driver’s own policy includes comprehensive and collision insurance, Uber’s policy covers physical damage to the vehicle that occurs during a trip up to its actual cash value, with a $1,000 deductible.
During the time that a ride-sharing driver is available but between trips, most personal auto insurance will provide coverage. However, if the driver does not have applicable coverage, Uber maintains a policy that covers the driver’s liability for bodily injury up to $50,000/individual/accident with a total of $100,000/accident and up to $25,000 for property damage.
How much can you earn?
In Los Angeles, for example, the estimated median net fare is $16/hour*; and $27/hour* in San Francisco. Fares are subject to change depending on factors such as time of day and location.
*Estimated hourly earnings based on median net fares of partners in the past month. Actual fares may vary depending on time of day, location, and other factors.
When can you drive?
The beauty of Uber is that when and how much you drive is completely up to you. Whether you feel like putting in a full day’s work or just picking up a couple of riders in between commitments, simply turn the app on when you’re ready to go, and turn it off when you’re done.
What other types of driving are there?
The most popular standard service is uberX. There is also UberBLACK, and UberSUV. The latter are designed for professional drivers, such as those belonging to limousine businesses, and require specialized licensing and commercial insurance policies. Visit the Uber website for more information about the different ride sharing options.