How Much Does An Uber Driver Make In The UK

Uber employs more than 3 million drivers around the globe.

Working for Uber allows you to benefit from flexible hours and earn some extra cash in your free time.

But how much does an Uber driver make in the UK? 

Let’s find out.

How Can You Become an Uber Driver and What Are Your Rights?

Becoming an Uber driver in the United Kingdom is a nuanced process and you’ll need to meet certain requirements. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to get started.

1. Go to Uber’s website and fill out an application.
2. You can sign up with your email address and phone number.
3. Get a private hire driver’s licence from a council that licences Uber.
4. Uber requires all applicants to upload the following documents: driving license, ID, insurance documents, bank account number, and driver’s profile photo. 
5. Applicants will also have to meet Uber’s vehicle requirements standards.
6. Complete the Edume course, a virtual tutorial that helps you get familiar with the Uber app and its features. 
7. Activate your account. 

But, what about your rights as an Uber driver?

The good news is Uber moved away from its no-strings-attached gig economy. All of its drivers (and other employees) are considered hires. This means Uber pays a minimum wage provides benefits like pension, sick leave, and holiday pay. As a result, the hourly income of an Uber driver, which is roughly £15 per hour, is more than the minimum income. Uber sounds more conducive for a steady income compared to Just Eat drivers which comes off as a side gig.

How Much Does an Uber Driver Make?

Uber now has around 70,000 drivers in the United Kingdom. Since the UK Supreme Court ruled that Uber drivers are entitled to workers’ rights, meaning the company has to pay them a minimum wage, which starting April 1, 2022, is between £4.62 and £9.50 an hour.

 But, there are a couple of other factors that determine how much an Uber driver in the UK makes, such as where you drive, the number of times you drive, and whether you take trips during rush hour.

Uber has no choice but to meet the national average wage, which is now around £8.91 per hour for people ages 23 and up. However, Uber wages in the UK are around £15 per hour. In other words, working 40 hours a week might translate into £600. 

Remember that you earn your Uber driver salary by picking a customer and driving him to the required destination. That means the time you spend waiting around, even if you are logged in to the Uber app and set your status as “available,” as not billable hours. 

 Because most transactions are completed online, the funds will be deposited directly into your bank account, along with an invoice detailing all of your trips.

Uber Rates Across The UK

Uber has different rates in different cities. Typically, you’ll be charged a minimum rate or a fee depending on the time and mileage for the course of your ride, which may include a flat fare, a Booking fee, surcharges, tolls, and dynamic pricing.

Uber fares vary depending on where you are, your car choice, and other factors. Subsequently, Uber driver payment can vary substantially.

For example, based on how many hours you work, the Uber driver salary in London can range from £250 to £800 weekly. According to a separate study, Birmingham drivers make roughly £36,400 per year, while Manchester drivers might earn up to £39,600.

There are entirely different rates and fees if you’re in a food delivery business working with Uber Eats, similar to how Deliveroo drivers work too.

Additional Costs

As an on-demand chauffeur, you’re still running a small enterprise even if you’re an Uber driver. All costs associated with the car, including servicing, car insurance, and other taxes, are your responsibility. 

Some of these additional costs include:

• Uber fee
• Fuel
• Vehicle maintenance
• Insurance
• Tax

Payment Methods

Because Uber operates entirely online, Uber drivers get paid electronically. After Uber deducts their service fee, it will send all of your remaining profits to your online account. You can then transfer your funds to your bank account. 

Bottom Line

Whether or not working for Uber is a good investment depends on your financial situation and professional aspirations. It might be an extremely profitable work opportunity for some and nothing more than an unpleasant driving experience for others. Consider what you want to gain out of the employment, how much free time you have, and whether the additional costs are worth it before you apply.