Becoming an Uber Driver
There are a lot of benefits in becoming an Uber driver. To begin with, you can drive your own car, set up your own schedule and have a stable source of income. Since Uber technology was introduced, it started with only a few drivers in 2012 and grew by over 150,000 in early 2015. The dramatic increase is by 400%. This is the reason why Uber is deemed as one of the most successful business startups in recent years. It has also expanded outside the US. Now, there are Uber drivers in over 50 countries and 300 cities worldwide. If you are interested in becoming an Uber driver, you need to know first the requirements to be one.
The right skills
Uber ensures that there is thorough background check first before they allow drivers to work for them. The company considers driving a serious responsibility. Without the right skills and a vehicle that is deemed road worthy, applications to become an Uber driver will be rejected. To begin with, applicants must be over 21 years old and must possess a car which is 2000 or newer. In some cities, they require at least 2005 versions. After initial application, Uber conducts a background check in which drivers have to apply. When they are deemed good enough to drive, then they are permitted to enter the system.
Getting a CDL
The first requirement to pass the background check is to have a CDL or a Commercial Driver’s License. To get one, the drive must possess that physical ability to drive a commercial vehicle. Take note that before availing a CDL, drivers must be held to higher standards of safety than just regular drivers. If you have committed serious traffic violations in the past, it might reject your application for a CDL. If you have history of alcoholism or drug addiction, it could also impede in getting a certification. To get a CDL, it would rake around 2 week to several months. The fee for getting a CDL depends on the program. It ranges from $100-300 depending on the program, class or school where you have decided to enroll. Without this commercial license, you might still be allowed by UberX to drive in some cities, but you have to be aware of city regulations too.
The need for insurance
Aside from the license, your car must also be insured. There are different insurance requirements depending on which area you are driving. The minimum requirement is insurance covered by the state. Since you are driving your own car, you need to at least have personal car insurance. Without valid insurance, Uber might not allow you to drive for the company.
Car insurance is not something you should skimp on either. Especially now that you'll be driving for a living. If you're concerned about costs are are simply looking to keep your overhead low, compare car insurance rates with multiple carriers once per year to ensure you're getting the best possible deal.
Car requirements
Aside from the driver, the cars to be used must also pass the minimum requirements. A 4-door sedan that can seat at least 4 passengers excluding the driver is a must. There should also be valid in-state plates. Marked vehicles, taxis and salvaged vehicles are not allowed. The car should also have a valid registration, but it does not necessarily have to be registered under your name. Finally, you need to pass the Uber vehicle inspection before finally allowed to enter the system.
Summary of the steps
If you think you can easily qualify the requirements, then you can begin now. You can start by completing an application form online. Then, you need to have your car inspects at an Uber inspection station or an authorized third party. You will then have to wait for the background check to be cleared. When you are given a go signal, you can now start driving. There is really no minimum number of hours that you are required to work in a day or in a week. It really depends on you if you on when and how long you want to drive.
Becoming an Uber driver is quite easy. This is the reason why it is a popular platform for those who want to earn extra income. The requirements are not that strict. As long as you can prove that you are a road worthy driver and you have a car that meets the minimum requirements, then you are good to go. Of course, you also have to be responsible since Uber also monitors the performance of their drivers and assesses complaints from passengers.
