Looking to cash in on the rideshare revolution in the United States? With the gig economy booming, driving for Uber is an attractive job option for many non-US citizens living in America.
As an immigrant myself, I’ve been through the process of becoming an Uber driver. I’ll tell you upfront that it can be a bit tricky navigating Uber’s requirements as a non-citizen. But with the right preparation, it’s definitely doable.
In this artticle, I’ll walk you through exactly how to apply to be an Uber driver in the USA when you’re a non-US citizen. I’ll cover the documentation you need, background checks, vehicle requirements, and more.
Let’s get started.
Uber Driver Job Requirements for Non-US Citizens
Before we get into the nitty-gritty details, let me give you a high-level overview of what it takes. As a non-US citizen, you’ll need to satisfy ALL of these requirements to be eligible to drive for Uber in the United States:
- Have the required immigration status and documentation
- Be eligible to legally work in the USA
- Pass an Uber background check
- Have an eligible 4-door vehicle or qualify to rent one from Uber
- Have a valid driver’s license issued in your US state of residency
- Be at least 21 years old (19 or 20 in some cities)
If you meet ALL of those requirements, then you’ve cleared the major hurdles. However, Uber driver job application as a non-US citizen does require some extra steps and paperwork compared to US citizens.
Immigration Status and Work Authorization Requirements
For Uber, the number 1 requirement when applying as a non-citizen is having legal status to work in the United States. Uber ONLY accepts documents from these two immigration categories:
- Permanent Resident / Green Card Holder
- Refugee / Asylee Admitted into the US
Sadly, if you are in the country on another type of visa like an H-1B, student visa or any other temporary non-immigrant visa, you are NOT eligible to drive for Uber. Uber has a zero-tolerance policy about this, based on US labor laws.
To prove your work authorization, you’ll need to submit copies of immigration documents like your Permanent Resident Card (“Green Card”) or Refugee Travel Document (Form I-571).
Don’t worry, Uber will give instructions on exactly what documents to submit once you start the application process online or in-person at a local Uber office.
Background Check Requirements for Uber Drivers
Here’s another hurdle for non-US citizens applying to drive for Uber: you’ll need to pass a federal background check. This includes:
- Criminal history check performed by a third-party accredited by the US Background Screeners Association
- Department of Justice Sex Offender check
- Social Security Trace and Address History check to root out fraudulent documents
The criminal check is especially exhaustive. Uber will review convictions from ALL states in the US going back 7 years, and some felonies are permanently disqualifying no matter how old.
If you’re a non-citizen, you also have to pass additional screening to validate your immigration status and work eligibility. An FBI fingerprint background check is typically not required unless you’re a registered felon.
Failure to pass this stringent background check is the #1 reason non-citizens get rejected by Uber. So be aware that any criminal history or fraud (even minor offenses) on your record could be an obstacle.
Vehicle Requirements and Driver Age Limits
Uber has fairly standard vehicle requirements that are the same whether you are a citizen or non-citizen. Your car must be:
- 4-door model that can fit 4 passengers
- Less than 15 years old or newer, depending on vehicle model
- Meets local vehicle inspection laws in your city/state
- Clean title without any commercial branding
Uber will let you know if your vehicle qualifies after you input your make, model, and year during the application process.
If you don’t have an eligible car, you can still drive for Uber by renting one of their approved vehicles through partner companies like HyreCar and Fair. The rental fees will be deducted automatically from your weekly earnings.
Last but not least, you must be at least 21 years old to drive for Uber in most US cities and states. However, there are some exceptions where Uber allows drivers as young as 19 or 20 to sign up if they have proof of rideshare insurance coverage.
Sure Tips to Maximize Your Chances of Getting Approved
Meeting all of Uber’s criteria is a big first hurdle, but you can maximize your chances of approval by following these tips:
#1 – Be Totally Upfront With Your Immigration Status
Honesty is always the best policy when applying to Uber as a non-citizen. Never try to fudge or misrepresent your immigration documents and work authorization status. Uber does a very thorough screening and will rapidly detect any inconsistencies. It’s an automatic rejection that could jeopardize future applications.
#2 – Resolve Any Criminal Issues Before Applying
Minor offenses like DUIs or misdemeanors can sometimes be overcome – IF you take proactive steps like getting a pardon or expungement. Better to take care of these issues before submitting your application, or you’ll likely get denied and have to go through the appeals process. If you don’t have a squeaky clean record, talk to a lawyer first.
#3 – Apply In-Person at a Greenlight Hub Location
While you can complete your Uber driver application online, I highly recommend applying in-person at an Uber Greenlight Hub if there’s one located near you. The staff there can review your documents on the spot to make sure everything is in order before officially submitting. They can also answer any questions specific to your individual situation.
#4 – Submit ALL Required Documents Up Front
When you go through the application process, make sure to upload all supporting documents (license, vehicle registration, immigration paperwork, etc.) in their entirety. The fastest way to get denied is to submit incomplete or piecemeal information. Providing everything upfront helps Uber review your file faster.
#5 – Be Patient and Persistent
Finally, understand that the application process for non-citizens often takes longer due to the additional screening required. If you get rejected initially, DON’T get discouraged! Many drivers have had success by appealing and reapplying after resolving any outstanding issues. Having a bulletproof document package is key – and taking the time to do it right the first time.
Over to You
While becoming an Uber driver as a non-US citizen can be challenging, it’s definitely doable if you follow Uber’s requirements to a tee. Having appropriate immigration status and work authorization are the first musts, followed by clearing background checks and vehicle requirements.
With some upfront prep and a little patience, driving for Uber can be a flexible side gig or even a full-time job that lets you cash in on the gig economy. Not to mention giving you a taste of the iconic American road while earning extra income!