Uber drivers are modern-day taxi drivers who emphasise convenience. The flexibility of an Uber driver and their work schedule makes them one of the most popular jobs in the world. The ability to work independently and be paid whilst also being able to meet new people has made the company one of the most profitable in the world. But how do you become an Uber driver?
In this article, Real Business will go over driver registration requirements, vehicle ownership rules, good practices to promote your business, and more.
Table of Contents
What Are Uber Drivers Legal Requirements?
The following are Uber driver requirements:
- You must be at least 21.
- Hold a valid UK Driving Licence.
- Own a car that meets Uber’s vehicle requirements (Uber offers vehicle solutions alternatively).
- Have a private hire licence from a council Uber is licensed by.
- Provide necessary documents such as a driver’s licence, private hire licence, bank statement, proof of a bank account, private hire insurance, and profile photo.
- Complete a virtual onboarding course.
- Attend an activation appointment at your local Greenlight Hub.
You can set up your driver account once you meet the criteria above, and start the virtual onboarding course. When you arrive at the job interview, bring all the relevant documents, including the private hire licence. Uber checks both your driving record and criminal history, so be aware.
Vehicle Ownership
Becoming an Uber driver does not necessarily mean you should own a car. Those without a suitable vehicle can find solutions through Uber themselves, who initiate rental programs and partnerships with car leasing companies. For clarification:
- Uber’s Vehicle Solutions Scheme: This programme offers competitive, flexible rental rates.
- Uber Approved Rental Partners: These Uber partners have cars that meet Uber’s standards. They offer long-term rentals with no long-term obligations.
If you choose to use your car, ensure that it’s in good condition. Conditioning is one of your customers’ priorities, increasing your chances of getting a high rating. We will go into this further later on, but the vehicle you use itself is a huge asset to your career.
Applying For A Private Hire Licence
Private hire drivers in the UK must obtain a private hire driver’s licence. You can do this through the following:
- Apply to your Local Council: Application processes differ by council, but most require only basic information. Keep your most important documents just in case.
- Gather Necessary Documents: The documents are:
- Proof of Identity
- Valid UK Driver’s Licence
- Bank Statement
- Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) Certificate
- Wait for approval: Within a few weeks, you should receive your private hire vehicle licence.
- Maintain your licence: Preserving the good condition of your vehicle, and proving its safety and road readiness is crucial to keeping the licence once you get it.
Completing Driver Training
Virtual driver training is the next step after gathering the necessary documents and meeting the requirements to become an Uber driver in the UK using the Uber driver app.
Whilst you will of course already know how to drive, virtual driver training will provide an overview of the features and services that the Uber app offers, allowing you to use it to get fares and instruct yourself on driver policies and safety protocols.
Greenlight Hub Registration
The final step to becoming an Uber driver is to make an appointment, with your documents, at your local Greenlight Hub so that your Uber driver account registration process will be complete.
The registration process includes a vehicle inspection to ensure your vehicle is safe to drive, meeting the company standards in the UK.
Ensuring Passenger Safety And Comfort
Aside from getting your passenger from A to B, ensuring the comfort of your passenger is one of the best ways to retain their use of the app and gain high ratings. See the tips below:
- Keep your car clean by vacuuming and removing clutter regularly.
- Check real-time traffic data to avoid delays.
- Ensure you take the fastest route, but drive safely and smoothly. Avoid sudden stops, turns, and fast acceleration in case of passenger motion sickness.
- Check with passengers if they are comfortable with the heating options.
- Convenience is key to business – try adding charging or wifi capabilities. Some Uber drivers even invest in water.
- Assist your passengers with luggage.
- Notify Uber about any issues that arise immediately. Vehicle problems, accidents or inappropriate passenger behaviour should be instantly reported to Uber.
Promoting Your Driving Services
Although you work for Uber, you are considered an independent driver. You operate your own business within the confines of the company and are given the means to set your schedule and promote your services.
- High Rating – A high rating is key to ensuring your services are sought after.
- Promotions – Discounts, referral codes etc. can encourage riders to repeat trips.
- Business Card – Use business cards to spread the word about your services.
- Identification – Let passengers easily identify your car through signals like decals, magnets, or illuminated signs.
- Repeat Customers – If you get repeat customers, learn to make their journey as convenient as possible by tailoring directly to them.
- Partnerships – Partner with businesses. You can offer companies and employees discounted rides to the airport or for a night out.
- Know your Locale – Position yourself near events like concerts and sporting venues. These are the places where rides will be in high demand.
- Peak Time Profits – Drive during peak times, when prices rise and many people are looking for fast service.
Smart marketing to build a loyal base ride is crucial for making your driving business lucrative.
Adhering To Uber’s Policies And Standards
Uber drivers who fail to adhere to the rules might get their accounts deactivated. Be sure to:
- Accept all trips – Whilst some routes are convenient or may net more money in a short time, causing bottlenecks in service is against Uber’s policies.
- Stay Professional – Steer away from inappropriate behaviour.
- Beware of Cancellations – Cancelling rides unnecessarily will cause penalties.
- Stay Consistent – Accept as many rides as you can. Practise good service, and you will improve your craft over time.
- App Payment Only – Do not ask or accept cash payment.
- Immediate Reporting – Report issues promptly. Notify Uber of any rider’s inappropriate behaviours, accidents, and traffic violations.
- Ensure Vehicular Cleanliness – Maintain your vehicle condition. Make sure it is clean inside and out and meets Uber requirements.
- Refrain from Influence – Do not take drugs, or drink alcohol during or prior to rides.
- Comply with Safety Training – Complete safety training and comply with Uber’s safety requirements such as wearing masks.
Following Uber’s standards is beneficial for you as it shows your dedication and professionalism in running your small business. It also ensures providing reliable services to riders.
Handling Challenging Situations
Uber Drivers meet many situations and people during their work hours. Ensure the following:
- Report Accidents – In the event of an accident, respond according to law and then notify Uber.
- Unruly Passengers – Ask passengers to stay calm if they cause a hassle, or leave the car. Documenting the incident to Uber is required, so contact Uber support to let them know about the incident. Contact authorities if persistent bad behaviour occurs.
- Stay in safe locations – Drop your passengers in safe locations. Do not leave them in unsafe places like highways.
- Respect the Weather – do not drive your car during strong storms. If conditions worsen, stop the drive.
- Use GPS always – If your rider has input on directions, that’s fine, but it’s best to keep to GPS routes to avoid getting lost.
- Inform Lateness – Contact your passengers to inform them of any delays. Tell them the expected arrival time, and apologise for the inconvenience.
Be proactive, and stay calm.
Conclusion
The barrier of entry for an Uber driver is not intense, however, it’s only the start. Staying as an Uber driver and making a profit depends entirely on your attitude and mode of conduct towards the role. Chase high ratings and learn about your area, and you may be able to find a niche for yourself.
Frequently Asked Questions About Uber Driving
What documents do I need to upload after signing up?
As mentioned earlier, starting your first journey as an Uber driver requires uploading documents like your valid driver’s licence, a private hire licence, a bank statement, a driver profile photo, and proof of ownership for the vehicle, as well as proof of fulfilling the requirements for the vehicle you will be using.
Can I work as an Uber driver part-time?
Uber gives you the option to work as a part-time driver. Your working hours and location are flexible, so you drive whenever and wherever you want. The app lets you set your availability. When you are available to drive, switch it on. If you need a break, just turn your availability off.
Are there any special insurance requirements for Uber drivers?
Uber drivers need special insurance requirements. The type of insurance required is private hire taxi insurance. It is different from standard car insurance as it covers you while transporting passengers.
Is car ownership required to become an Uber driver?
Owning a car is not a prerequisite to becoming an Uber driver. If you have no eligible car, you can refer to Uber Solutions to enjoy flexible and profitable work without even owning a car. However, you still need to take the other steps to complete the process.
What safety measures are in place for Uber drivers?
Uber takes its drivers’ safety seriously, so a set of measures are taken to ensure that drivers work in a safe environment. In case of an emergency, there is an emergency button in the app. In addition, all trips are tracked to ensure drivers reach their destinations and homes safely.
In an accident, both drivers and passengers are covered by Uber’s driver protection insurance. Safety measures also include a 24/7 support service, in-app feedback, and a driver screening process. An online community of drivers is also available for you to access and get the support and advice you need.
