Uber has come out of nowhere and the Taxi Cab business is in jeopardy. Not a good thing for them, but definitely in favor of you, as you can land a job and become an Uber driver a lot faster than you think.
Another brilliant idea that I don’t see going anywhere for a while and I do feel the pain for those cab drivers who lost some good business in such a short period of time.
While I was in Las Vegas for the WA Super Affiliate conference, I decided to give Uber a try since I don’t know when I’d be needing one of these in the future as I would be driving myself around when I get home.
After downloading the Uber App, I was immediately impressed.
There were Uber drivers right outside the hotel and it showed you the different rates, which was easier and cheaper than trying to get a cab of course.
So What is Uber?
Uber is a service for people looking for the quickest way to get a ride as well as people (you) looking to make money driving.
Being stranded without a cab, Travis Kalanik and Garrett Kamp came up with the idea of tapping a button and getting a ride, which evolved into Uber.
It all started as an app to request premium black cars and has now evolved into a huge business that has cab drivers protesting this app and others like it.
Bad for cab drivers, but leaves a lot of opportunity for people like you looking to make some money.
Just like anything else, you need to meet several qualifications and requirements before you can start work, so if you can abide and possess what they ask, you can start work really soon.
Minimum Requirements to Become an Uber Driver
Getting a ride from an Uber Driver is a breeze, now becoming one is not as quick, but is not going to take you months like you would if you were to run your own cab business.
For the most part, all countries follow a similar requirements, but you definitely want to follow the rules and laws that your country has in place.
Vehicle Requirements:
- 2000 model or newer
- Sedan that can at least seat 4 passengers (not including you)
- State issued license plates
- Not salvaged or used for prior taxi services
* You DO NOT need to have your own vehicle to become an Uber driver
Driver Requirements:
- At least 21 years of age
- Valid driver’s license
- Proof of insurance (under your name)
- Minimum 3 years driving experience
- A social security number
- Background check
The Uber Driver Application
To signup with Uber, it’s really simple and you can actually do it online.
Now you are required to have some documents and I’m sure you know that at the very least that you need a driver’s license.
Uber is not everywhere yet, so you need to make sure they operate in your country.
Once you have gone through the basic online application you will then have to get your vehicle inspected by one of Uber’s inspection stations as well as documents to support your background check.
Uber Driver Pay Rate
The pay for Uber depends on your city, but for the most part, they’ll take between 20-35%, which is actually not that bad.
Uber pays weekly and your fares get automatically deposited into your account, which is actually really good for those of you that blow that whole paycheck in a week.
There are also many other benefits of being an Uber driver, which is why this is very well going to be a lot of people’s careers.
- You make your own schedule
- You can use your own car
- Paid weekly
Uber’s High End Services
With the basic cab type service, there is also different options for people looking to get a little fancy, so if you have an SUV or some type of luxury vehicle, you can provide that service.
- UberXL
- UberBlack
- UberSelect
- UberPlus
- UberSUV
- UberLUX
It is going to require additional vehicle requirements, but you knew that.
After You Get Approved
Once you have met all of Uber’s requirements, you are now ready to start accepting passengers.
As a driver you simply login to the app with the information you provided (usually your email addy) and you will be automatically thrown into the mix.
So when someone needs a ride, they will automatically be presented with the closest drivers available.
If they request a ride from you, the app will direct you to this person.
They will need to pay before you arrive, so everything is done on Uber’s end and you really have nothing to worry about a thing as Uber pays every Thursday directly to your account.
If you are confused about how to use the Uber App you can watch the video below to get a better understanding.
Are You Uber Ready?
For anyone looking to start a small business of their own, I think becoming an Uber driver is a great place to start.
If you need extra money, this is also a great part-time job to have.
Do keep in mind that you need to at least get one trip under your belt or you will have to reapply and I’m sure you don’t want to do that.
This is a legitimate business and you are required to deal with taxes just like anything else, so don’t forget to get all your tax write-offs ready to go come tax time.
The hustle is real, so get out there and make some money!
P.S. Don’t forget to watch out for those angry cab drivers.