Stephens Law Firm | August 20, 2025 | Uber
Rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft have transformed how people move around cities. For many drivers, joining these platforms is an appealing way to earn extra income or even build a full-time career. However, before you can start accepting ride requests, you must meet strict driver and vehicle requirements.
These rules are designed to protect passengers, ensure road safety, and maintain the quality of the rideshare experience. In this article, we’ll break down the vehicle and driver requirements for Uber and Lyft, covering everything from age and licensing rules to inspection standards and insurance coverage.
Driver Eligibility Requirements
Before you can start driving with Uber or Lyft, you must first meet specific eligibility requirements that focus on age, licensing, and driving experience.
Age Requirements
Both Uber and Lyft require drivers to meet minimum age requirements, though these can vary by state and service type.
Generally:
- Uber: You must meet the minimum age to drive in your city and have at least one year of licensed driving experience (three years if you’re under 25).
- Lyft: You must be at least 25 years old in most markets, though in some states drivers can start as young as 21.
Meeting the minimum age and experience standards is the first step toward qualifying, but both Uber and Lyft also require drivers to maintain a valid license and a clean driving record.
Driver’s License and Experience
In addition to meeting age requirements, Uber and Lyft also set clear standards for licensing and driving experience to ensure safety and reliability.
- A valid U.S. driver’s license is required.
- Uber requires at least one year of driving experience (three years if you’re under 25). Lyft often sets a minimum of one year regardless of age.
Once you’ve met the licensing and experience criteria, the next step is passing a background check that reviews both your driving history and criminal record.
Background Checks
Both companies conduct thorough background screenings before you’re approved:
- Criminal background check: Drivers cannot have convictions for violent crimes, sexual offenses, or serious felonies.
- Driving record check: A history of reckless driving, DUIs, or excessive traffic violations can disqualify you.
These checks are performed through third-party providers and repeated periodically to ensure ongoing compliance.
Vehicle Age Requirements
The age of your car is one of the most important factors:
- Uber: Requirements vary by city, but most areas require vehicles to be 15 years old or newer. Premium services (like Uber Black) require much newer models.
- Lyft: Most cities require a car that is 10–15 years old or newer. Some areas allow vehicles up to 20 years old.
While vehicle age is a key requirement, Uber and Lyft also have strict rules about condition, safety features, and capacity that drivers must meet before getting approved.
Vehicle Condition
Both companies mandate that vehicles must be in good condition, without cosmetic damage or major mechanical issues.
Common requirements include:
- Four full doors (no two-door coupes)
- Fully functional air conditioning and heating
- No commercial branding or taxi equipment
- Clean interior and exterior
Meeting these condition standards not only ensures your vehicle is approved but also helps create a safe and comfortable experience for every passenger.
Vehicle Types Allowed
Not every car qualifies for rideshare driving—Uber and Lyft have specific rules about the types of vehicles allowed on their platforms.
- Uber: Allows sedans, SUVs, and minivans with at least four doors and five seatbelts. Specialty services (Uber XL, Uber Black, Uber Comfort) have additional requirements such as more seating capacity, luxury models, or premium features.
- Lyft: Similar requirements — cars must have four doors and at least five seatbelts. Lyft XL requires vehicles that can seat at least six passengers.
Motorcycles, trucks with exposed beds, and two-door vehicles are generally not permitted.
Inspection Requirements
Before you can start driving, your car must pass a vehicle inspection.
- Uber: Requires a 19-point inspection, which can be completed at Uber Greenlight Hubs or authorized inspection centers.
- Lyft: Also requires annual inspections at approved facilities. Some markets allow drivers to upload inspection forms completed by certified mechanics.
Inspections check brakes, tires, lights, seatbelts, steering, and overall vehicle safety.
Insurance Requirements
One of the most critical aspects of driving for Uber or Lyft is having the right insurance.
Personal Insurance
Both companies require drivers to carry their own personal auto insurance policy that meets state minimum requirements.
Rideshare Insurance Provided by Uber and Lyft
Uber and Lyft also provide additional coverage when you are logged into the app:
- Offline (app off): Only your personal insurance applies.
- App on, no ride accepted: Contingent liability coverage (typically $50,000 per person, $100,000 per accident, and $25,000 property damage).
- Ride accepted to drop-off: Up to $1 million in liability coverage plus contingent collision and comprehensive coverage (if you already carry those on your personal policy).
Some states require rideshare-specific insurance, so drivers should confirm with their provider to avoid coverage gaps.
Additional Requirements for Premium Services
If you want to qualify for higher-paying ride categories, both Uber and Lyft have additional requirements:
- Uber Black/Uber Black SUV: Vehicle must be a late-model luxury car, black exterior and interior, with commercial insurance and a professional chauffeur’s license in some areas.
- Uber Comfort: Newer vehicles with extra legroom and highly rated drivers.
- Lyft Lux/Lux Black: High-end or luxury vehicles, often requiring leather interiors and newer model years.
- Lyft XL: Larger vehicles that seat at least six passengers.
These premium services allow drivers to earn more per ride but require a higher level of investment.
Tips for Meeting Requirements and Staying Eligible
Meeting the initial requirements is only part of the process—staying eligible as an Uber or Lyft driver requires ongoing attention to both your vehicle and your driving record.
- Keep your vehicle maintained. Regular oil changes, tire rotations, and cleaning go a long way.
- Stay on top of documentation. Upload updated insurance, registration, and inspection reports as soon as they’re renewed.
- Avoid traffic violations. Even a few speeding tickets can put your driving record at risk.
- Carry rideshare-friendly insurance. Ask your insurer about coverage designed for Uber and Lyft drivers.
- Provide excellent service. High ratings not only boost your earnings but also keep you in good standing with the platform.
By following these best practices, you can maintain compliance, protect your standing on the platform, and maximize your long-term earning potential.
Contact Stephens Law Firm, PLLC for a Free Consultation
Driving for Uber or Lyft can be a flexible way to earn money, but approval isn’t automatic. To start—and stay—on the road, you’ll need to meet strict driver and vehicle requirements. From passing background checks and inspections to carrying the right insurance and maintaining your vehicle, compliance is essential.
By understanding these requirements upfront, you can avoid surprises, ensure a smooth onboarding process, and maximize your success as a rideshare driver.
If you’ve been injured in an accident in Fort Worth and need legal help, contact our Fort Worth and Weatherford personal injury lawyers at Stephens Law Personal Injury | Wrongful Death | Truck Accidents to schedule a free consultation.
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Fort Worth, TX 76107
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