Uber driver requirements in the UK 

Whether you’re looking to become an Uber driver full-time or earn some money on the side, you should have your documents, vehicle, and details in order before you apply.

Let's look at the requirements for Uber drivers so you can get going quickly and easily.  

Prerequisites to becoming an Uber driver

First off,  in order to become an Uber driver in the UK, you need to meet a few basic prerequisites:

• Age requirement: You must be at least 21 years old.
• Driving licence: You need a valid UK driver's licence, including at least one year of driving experience. If you have an EU driving licence, or one from another country, you’ll have to convert it to a UK licence before you start the onboarding process.
• Private-hire licence: A private-hire licence is required, in addition to your driving licence. These are issued by the local council in the area in which you work – Uber has their own service to help you obtain the necessary documentation, called their Ignition appointment service
• Bank account: A compliant bank account in your name or the name of the business you own. 
• Insurance: You’ll need private hire taxi insurance, also known as hire and reward insurance, which covers you for carrying passengers in your vehicle.
• Vehicle requirements: Your vehicle itself will need to meet Uber’s standards, which can vary by city (more on that below).
• Documentation: You’ll have to submit various documents as part of the application process, including a bank statement, proof of ID and a driver profile photo taken at a local Uber office known as a Greenlight hub.

Mileage tracking made easy

Trusted by millions of drivers

Automate your mileage log Automate your mileage log

Claim your deductions

Reclaim your time

Automatic mileage tracking and HMRC-compliant reporting.

Get started for free Get started for free

How to apply to be an Uber driver

The process to apply to be an Uber driver in the UK is relatively straightforward, and Uber will help you with many of the steps with specific guidance, local support services and education.

1. Sign up online 

Start by signing up through the Uber website using your email address and smartphone. You’ll need to provide some basic information about yourself and your vehicle, if you’re using your own car.

2. Obtain a private-hire licence

Apply for a private-hire licence through your local council. Uber’s Ignition programme provides guidance and assistance in this process.

3. Upload your documents

Submit copies of your driving licence, private-hire licence, insurance details and other documents to the Uber app, as well as:

• National insurance number: This is required for tax and verification purposes.
• Bank statement: A recent bank statement (dated within the last three months) for the account where you will receive payments from Uber. This statement must show your name and address.
• Driver profile photo: A clear, recent photo of yourself that meets Uber's specifications, usually taken at an Uber Greenlight Hub.
• MOT certificate (if applicable): Proof that your vehicle has passed a recent MOT test, confirming that it meets safety standards.
• Proof of address: This could be a recent utility bill, bank statement, or another official document that verifies your address.
• Proof of vehicle ownership (if you own the car): A Vehicle Registration Document (also knows as a vehicle log book or V5C) in your name, if applicable.
• Right to work document: Proof that you have the legal right to work in the UK, which might include a passport, biometric residence permit, or other relevant documentation if you are not a UK citizen.

4. Activate your account

Once you’ve completed all the steps above, including vehicle inspections if required, you can visit your local Greenlight Hub to activate your account and start driving.

How to pass an Uber background check

Uber conducts a background check to ensure the safety and reliability of all of its drivers. Here’s what you need to know.

What do they check for: The background check includes a review of your driving and criminal records to ensure you have a clean history with no disqualifying offences.

Who conducts it: Background checks for Uber are conducted by third-party screening companies like Checkr, HireRight, and Samba Safety, who validate credentials with a focus on safety standards.

Uber car requirements 

Ownership types 

The car requirements will depend on how you choose to drive with Uber. There are three ways you can choose:

1. Driver-cum-owner: If you own the vehicle you drive for Uber, you will need a valid driving licence, national identity card, vehicle registration document, vehicle insurance (commercial/hiring), and revenue documentation for the vehicle.
2. Driver under partner: For drivers who operate a vehicle owned by someone else (non-driving partner), you will need a driving licence and national identity card.
3. Non-driving partner: A non-driving partner who owns and manages vehicles but does not drive, will need a driving licence or photo ID, vehicle insurance (commercial/hiring), vehicle registration document, and revenue documentation for the vehicle.

Vehicle requirements 

No matter how you drive with Uber, the vehicle you’re using must meet local Uber standards.

These include:

• A 4-door car
• No older than 10-15 years
• Must pass an MOT test 
• No commercial branding
• Good cosmetic condition

How to pass your Uber vehicle inspection

You’ll also need to schedule an appointment with Uber to make sure your vehicle meets their safety and comfort standards. They’ll be looking for:

• Suitability for Uber services: This includes the condition, age criteria, usability and size, as well as environmental concerns in some cities that have low-emissions zones.
• Function and safety: A mechanic will check the basic features, including tyres, brakes, lights, and safety features, as well as ensuring it looks ready to collect paying passengers.

Note that the cost of the vehicle inspection is usually the responsibility of the driver, and can vary between  £100 and £250, depending on your where you're located. 

VAT registration and tax obligations for Uber drivers

No matter if you drive full-time or use Uber as a side hustle, you’ll need to track your income and report it to HMRC.

If you earn above the current VAT threshold (which is £90,000 as of July 2025), you’ll also need to sign up for VAT and report and pay your VAT quarterly.

If you’re looking to maximise your tax efficiency as an Uber driver, you’ll need to keep accurate records and make the most of your taxable allowances.

Recordkeeping 

Uber provides drivers with annual tax statements to assist with income tax self-assessment. 

When it comes to records of your earnings and expenses for accurate tax filing, tracking your mileage can grant you a sizeable tax deduction. Mileage tracking apps like Driversnote can help you automatically track and log tax-compliant mileage reports on your phone so you never miss a mile.

Sign up to become an Uber driver

To sign up as an Uber driver, visit the official Uber sign-up page. You can also download the Uber app from the App Store or Google Play to begin the application process.