New Regulations in Columbus Empower Riders and Drivers

Earlier this month, the Columbus City Council, with the leadership of Council President Zach Klein, took action to update existing rideshare rules in Columbus. These rules took effect immediately upon the signature of Mayor Andrew Ginther on January 27th, 2016.

With the City Council acknowledging that the majority of partners drive less than 10 hours per week, this modernized approach puts drivers first, making it easier for people to earn money when they want while also allowing users to push a button and get a ride.

Over the last 2 years, dozens of cities and states have embraced ridesharing as a new industry by adopting rules that enable and encourage earning opportunities on demand.  We applaud Council President Klein and the City Council for recognizing that Columbus’ rules needed updating and implementing these changes that put Columbus in line with cities across the globe.

What is included in the updated regulations?

The City Council streamlined the permitting process for potential drivers. Effective immediately, drivers who partner with Uber may now pick up within the Columbus city limits without needing to undergo a separate, individual permitting process in Columbus.

What does this mean for drivers?

Effective immediately, all active drivers on the Uber platform in and around Columbus are now able to pick up within the Columbus City limits.

Current driver-partners who have already gone through the city’s permitting process will no longer have to renew their individual licence or pay the annual fee associated with the previous requirements.

Prospective drivers who are interested in partnering with Uber will still be required to undergo Uber’s safety screening process, but will not need to undergo a separate, city registration process.

If you have any questions regarding these exact changes, please email the Uber Columbus operations team.

What does this mean for riders?

Uber users can continue to enjoy the seamless experience they have come to rely on—with the added potential of more drivers leading to faster (or shorter) ETAs.

By modernizing the ordinance, the City Council is ensuring that economic opportunity and innovative options have a permanent home in Columbus. We look forward to our continued work with the City of Columbus as we move ahead under this new framework.

Uber on, Columbus!