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How to become an uber driver in the UK

Written by, Bojana Atanasovska

Updated April, 18, 2022

If you’re looking for a flexible gig to make some extra cash and make your own schedule, working for Uber could be the perfect opportunity. 

 Here’s a guide on how to become an Uber driver in the UK. 

Read on! 

How to Become an Uber Driver in the UK

If you have a driving licence and a little extra time, you might want to consider becoming an Uber driver. It’s a great opportunity to earn money on the side and gain experience in the meantime.

Before diving into the specifics, here’s a short overview of the process of becoming an Uber driver. 

1. Sign up to be an Uber driver: The first step to becoming an Uber driver is applying via the Uber website. Applicants are required to provide some personal information.

2. Complete a background check: Once you’ve signed up, you’ll need to complete a background check, which involves a criminal record and a driving licence check.

3. Upload your documents: You’ll also need to upload some documents, including your driving licence, passport or national ID card, and proof of address.

4. Meet vehicle requirements to drive for Uber: To drive with Uber, you’ll need a car that’s less than ten years old and has at least four doors.

How to Sign up for Uber

To apply for an Uber driver in the UK, you first need to create an Uber account. You can do this by downloading the Uber app or visiting www.uber.com. Once you have created an account, you will need to provide personal information, including your name, email address, and contact number.

Applicants are then required to upload a copy of their driving licence and provide proof of insurance. If you don’t have a UK driving licence, you can still drive with Uber with a valid international driver’s licence.

Next, you will need to enter your national insurance number to allow Uber to conduct a criminal background check. Uber will then ask for bank account details and send your earnings to that account each week.

UK Uber driver requirements

All Uber drivers need to have a private hire licence. You can typically obtain one from your local authority or council. The length of the process and fees associated with it depend on where in the UK you apply for it.

The good news is, Uber applicants can easily get a private hire licence via the company’s Ignition Programme. 

Here’s a list of the Driver requirements in the UK to become an Uber driver:

  • Have to be at least 21 years old.
  • Hold a valid UK driver’s licence (EU licences must be converted before going through the onboarding process).
  • Have the necessary driving experience – this varies from city to city. For example, an Uber driver in London needs a minimum of three years’ driving experience.
  • Have a National Insurance number.
  • Have an Electronic Counterpart code, which you can apply for on the www.gov.uk website. 
  • Have a PCO Paper Licence.

Uber Car Requirements in the UK

To become an Uber driver in the UK, you must first obtain the PCO licence. If you plan on driving for Uber in London, your car has to pass TfL’s PHV licence criteria, including having all necessary equipment such as lights and safety gear.

Once that’s done, all you’ll need is a Logbook or New Keepers slip and an MOT that’ been issued in the last six months.

Bottom Line

Driving for Uber can be a lucrative side hustle for anyone that has a little bit of free time and likes driving around in busy streets. 

If you’re wondering how to become an Uber driver in the UK, the process is simple. However, Uber is a reputable company that has strict driver and car requirements, so make sure you have the necessary documentation before applying on the website.

Bojana is my name and writing is my game. I am a content writer from Bitola who is always interested in the latest research in almost all areas of life. I have a Bachelor’s degree in English literature and a perfectionist character, both of which help me find the most accurate data and information available. Although I have my head stuck in studies and reports most of the time, I still have a bit of free time during which I enjoy knitting and watching classic 90’s Disney movies.