How To Become an Uber Driver in the UK

summary

• Uber reigns as the top choice for ride-hailing services in the UK.
• Acquiring a private hire licence from your council is essential to become an Uber driver.
• As an Uber driver, your earning potential can reach up to £33 per hour.
  

🎧 Listen Now: Sidehustles.co.uk One-Minute Podcast: How to Become an Uber Driver in the UK.

Transcript available below.

If there’s one name that’s consistently associated with ride-hailing, particularly in commuter-heavy areas, it's Uber. For those seeking a reliable side hustle with assured income potential, becoming an Uber Driver emerges as a promising option. This article guides you through the essential steps to join the ranks of Uber drivers in the UK and shares key insights from our network of side hustlers to equip you for the journey. Continue reading for a comprehensive understanding of what it takes to succeed as an Uber Driver.

Uber is a ride-sharing company that primarily operates via the Uber app. As an Uber driver, you will find customers through the app, reach their pick-up location, and bring them to their destination. There’s also Uber Delivery and Uber Eats, where you transport goods or food instead of people. Whatever the case, you won’t be an official employee under Uber. Instead, you will work as an independent contractor in charge of your own schedule, insurance, and taxes.

Thanks to this business model, you have more flexibility. You can drive whenever you have free time and stop as needed, making this side hustle great for those who have full-time jobs and other priorities.

✅ Read our comprehensive guide on Becoming a Food Delivery in the UK.

According to Uber UK, you will need to submit the following during the application process.

1. Valid UK driving licence
2. A vehicle that meets Uber UK’s standards
3. Must be at least 21 years of age
4. Bank statement for the bank account you’re going to use to receive payments
5. Driver photo taken at Uber’s Greenlight Hub
6. Driving experience (depends on the city you’re going to be based in)
7. Private hire licence from your local council (or the area you’re going to work in)
8. A private hire taxi insurance policy

Once you’ve gathered and satisfied all the requirements, the next step is to begin the application process.

1. Visit Uber.com and sign up with your email address. Download the app on your mobile and sign in using the email address you used. 
2. Secure a private hire licence from your local council as well as a private hire insurance plan. These will be your legal proof that you’re allowed to transport passengers in exchange for payment.
3. Upload all the required documents on Uber, including your photo ID.
4. Watch the online onboarding courses.
5. Activate your account and start driving!

If you don’t have a car, Uber can provide vehicle solutions from their fleet if you’re qualified. Those with their own vehicle must ensure it adheres to Uber UK’s standards. Proof of ownership and an MOT certificate will also be required.

You must pass a background check or DBS check, which will be repeated annually. Make sure to take note of this to set your expectations, especially if you have unspent convictions.

✅ Check out our comprehensive guide on the key licences for UK Ride Hailing: PCO vs PHV

Once you’ve started driving, the next step is to increase your ratings. Having a consistently high rating — which should range from four to five stars — helps increase customer trust and your revenue, including your tips! Here are a few things you can do as a new driver.

Keep Your Vehicle Tidy and Hygienic

A clean car makes a good first impression. Regularly remove debris within the interiors, and get the exterior regularly washed. You can include car fresheners, too. 

Be Personable Yet Professional

Smile when you first meet passengers and talk to them if they initiate conversations. However, some will prefer silence, so make sure to judge the situation and avoid making passengers uncomfortable. 

Add Vehicle Extras

Your passengers will appreciate tissues, hand sanitisers, and even charging cables. 

Prioritise Physical Comfort

Make sure that your vehicle has the right temperature, especially when the outside is either too cold or hot. In addition, avoid playing too loud music when someone else is in your car.

According to Talent.com, Uber Drivers earn around £18 an hour, which is well above the minimum wage. However, you can expect a lower rate during the initial few weeks or months, building up as you increase your ratings. You could earn up to £33 an hour as you gain more experience. 

✅ Check out our in-depth comparison of food delivery driver earnings in the UK across top platforms like Deliveroo, Just Eat, and Uber Eats. Find out which app offers the best hourly rates, benefits, and opportunities to maximise your income.

Since you’re an independent contractor, you will need to shoulder the initial start-up costs. Here are some of the things that will require funding.

Fuel

Uber doesn’t give fuel cards or allowance, but you can get discounts for petrol thanks to the BPme Rewards card. Use it to buy petrol for reduced rates! 

Insurances

Aside from car insurance, you will need to buy private hire taxi insurance. If you choose Uber Eats or Uber Delivery, then a hire and rewards policy must be in place.

Vehicle Accessories or Upgrades

As we mentioned, you can add tissues, charging cables, and other accessories to enhance customer experience. You’ll need to pay for these upgrades out of pocket.

Yes. As an independent contractor, you’re technically a sole trader. As soon as you reach £1,000 in taxable income, you will need to register for self-assessment with the HMRC and start paying your dues. Make sure to keep track of your transactions to ensure accurate filings. 

✅ Read our comprehensive guide on side hustles and your tax obligations.

Uber has become a byword for side hustles, a testament to its robust earning opportunities coupled with remarkable flexibility. This makes it an ideal choice for individuals balancing day jobs or other commitments. If you're considering embarking on this journey, take the first step by following our comprehensive guide. Embrace the potential of becoming an Uber driver and unlock a world where earning meets convenience. Start your journey today, and drive your way towards a rewarding side hustle experience.

You've explored the ins and outs of becoming an Uber driver, and we hope you found this guide insightful. But the world of driving side hustles doesn't end here. If you're keen to diversify your income streams further, our next article is just what you need. Delve into the dynamic and growing world of food delivery driving. It's another excellent opportunity for flexible earning, and we're here to walk you through every step of the way. From understanding the requirements to maximising your earnings, our comprehensive guide will equip you with everything you need to know. So, why wait? Head over to our next article, "Become a Food Delivery Driver," and discover how to turn your driving skills into another lucrative side hustle!

BECOME A FOOD DELIVERY DRIVER

🎧 Listen Now: Sidehustles.co.uk One-Minute Podcast

How to Become an Uber Driver in the UK.

Welcome to the Sidehustles.co.uk One Minute Podcast. In the next 60 seconds, we're sharing a real-world insight from our network of seasoned side hustlers. This quick tip is designed to offer you practical advice that you can apply immediately in your side hustle journey.

Today, we're looking at How to Become an Uber Driver in the UK. A practical tip for those considering a side hustle as an Uber driver is the importance of building a good driver rating. A high rating is more than just a number; it's your reputation on the road. Key to achieving this is offering excellent customer service. Simple gestures like greeting passengers warmly, maintaining a clean and comfortable car, and respecting their preferences can make a huge difference. Some drivers even go the extra mile by providing small conveniences like charging cables or water bottles. Remember, a higher rating can lead to more ride requests and potentially higher earnings. It's about creating a positive experience for each passenger, which in turn, enhances your success as an Uber driver. So, focus on those ratings – they're the badge of your service quality and dedication!

That's your one-minute real-world insight. Stay tuned for more!

https://www.uber.com/gb/en/ 

https://www.uber.com/gb/en/drive/requirements/ 

https://www.uber.com/gb/en/drive/london/get-a-license/disclosure-and-barring-service/ 

https://uk.talent.com/salary?job=uber+driver