The Taxi and Limousine Commission (TLC) recently implemented the Driver Earnings Rule that requires Uber driver-partners in NYC to earn minimum per-minute and per-mile rates on trips. So, starting in February, we’ll be introducing new standard rates for all NYC Uber driver-partners.

Because of the Driver Earnings Rule, we’ve had to make other changes as well. Throughout the year, we’ll be introducing some new policies and features, and we want to share them with you.

Changes coming in 2019

• Changes to per-minute and per-mile rates

  Rates for all Uber driver-partners in NYC will be changing to new, standardized rates starting on February 1, 2019. You will be able to see your new rates through your Partner Portal starting February 1. You can expect your average fare on Uber trips to go up based on these changes.

  How did we arrive at these new rates? The TLC has a formula that we’re required to follow to determine per-minute and per-mile rates.  

  You’ll also notice changes to paid wait times and long pickup fees.

  SEE YOUR RATES >

• Changes to your weekly promotions

  As a result of how the Driver Earnings Rule takes driver promotions into account, you will likely see reductions in the promotion levels you receive. You may also notice that some types of promotions will no longer be offered.

• “Out of Town” surcharge

  Any UberX, UberXL, WAV or POOL trip that begins in NYC and has a dropoff outside of the 5 boroughs will now include an extra surcharge, paid to you by the rider. The surcharge amount will vary depending on how far outside of NYC you take your rider.

• Uber Black and Black SUV cancellation and wait time changes

  Paid wait time rates are increasing on all vehicles types, including Uber Black and Black SUV. Uber Black and SUV riders will now have more time to arrive at pickup locations (changing from 2 minutes to 5 minutes), and you will get paid more for waiting.

  We are also increasing the cancellation fee if a rider doesn’t show up, with the cancellation window changing from 5 minutes to 15 minutes.

  Offering riders increased flexibility at pickup creates a better experience for them—and a brighter earnings outlook for drivers such as yourself. Paid wait time and cancellation time at airports will remain the same.

• Changes to Uber Black and Uber Black SUV eligibility

  Driver and riders told us they want a consistent, elevated experience for premium vehicles, so we’re raising rates and criteria to drive on Uber Black and Uber Black SUV.

  In the coming months, we’ll be rolling out new vehicle and rating requirements for Uber Black and Uber Black SUV. Starting in May, drivers on Uber Black and Uber Black SUV will need a star rating of at least 4.85 to continue driving, and in September, drivers will need to be driving an eligible car found on this list.

  Check out tips from drivers on how to improve your rating.

• NY Congestion Surcharge

  Last year, New York State passed a law that imposes a new surcharge on rides in for-hire vehicles in Manhattan (below 96th St).

  Starting in February 2019, riders will be charged an extra $2.75 per trip ($0.75 when it’s a carpool ride) on all trips that start and end in New York State (including New York City) and pass through Manhattan below 96th Street.

  The rider will pay for this surcharge (called the NY Congestion Surcharge), and it be sent to the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA); it will not go to you or to Uber.