Last Updated: April 15, 2026
Sign up for Uber Eats on the app or website, complete identity verification, pass a background check, and set up your delivery vehicle and payment information. Most applicants are approved within 3–7 days and can start accepting delivery jobs immediately.
How to Apply at Uber Eats
- Download the App or Visit the Website: Go to the Uber Eats driver signup page on the web or download the Uber Driver app from your phone’s app store. Select “Deliver with Uber Eats” when prompted.
- Create Your Account: Enter your email address, phone number, and create a password. You’ll receive a verification code via text message to confirm your phone number.
- Provide Personal Information: Supply your full legal name, date of birth, address, and driver’s license number. You must be at least 19 years old (18 in some areas) to deliver for Uber Eats.
- Vehicle Details: Upload photos of your vehicle (front, back, and interior), registration, and proof of insurance. If you’re using a bike or scooter, provide those vehicle details instead.
- Background Check Authorization: Authorize Uber to conduct a background check, which includes criminal history screening and driving record verification. This process typically takes 2–5 business days.
- Set Up Payment Method: Link a valid debit card or bank account where your earnings will be deposited. Uber transfers funds weekly, typically on Tuesdays.
- Accept Terms and Conditions: Review and accept Uber’s independent contractor agreement and insurance policies.
- Complete Bank Account Verification: Confirm your banking details through micro-deposits (Uber deposits small amounts into your account to verify ownership).
- Activate Your Account: Once approved, activate delivery mode in the app and begin accepting delivery requests in your service area.
Uber Eats Earning Opportunities and Pay Rates
| Delivery Type | Average Earnings | Schedule Flexibility |
|---|---|---|
| Uber Eats Delivery | $15–25 per hour | Full flexibility; accept orders as you choose |
| Scheduled Delivery | $18–30 per hour | Block-based scheduling; higher guaranteed earnings |
| Bike/Scooter Delivery | $12–20 per hour | Full flexibility; ideal for urban areas |
| Promotions & Surge Pricing | Up to 1.5x base rate | Additional earnings during high-demand periods |
Uber Eats Requirements to Join
- Age: At least 18 or 19 years old (varies by location)
- Valid Driver’s License: A government-issued driver’s license valid in your country
- Vehicle: A car, truck, motorcycle, bicycle, scooter, or e-bike in good working condition
- Insurance: Auto insurance covering your vehicle for delivery work, or rideshare-specific insurance
- Registration & Inspection: Current vehicle registration and passing safety inspection (varies by location)
- Background Check: Clean background check with no serious criminal convictions or major traffic violations
- Bank Account: A valid debit card or US bank account for payments
- Phone: A smartphone running iOS or Android with GPS and data connectivity
- Service Area: Residency or work authorization in your delivery location
Uber Eats Onboarding Process
After submitting your application, Uber Eats begins verifying your documents and background information. The approval timeline is typically 3–7 business days, though some cities expedite approval to as little as 24 hours. During this time, you can monitor your application status in the Uber Driver app under “Account.”
Once approved, you’ll receive a notification and can enable delivery mode immediately. Your first step is to download the Uber Driver app (separate from the regular Uber app) and familiarize yourself with the interface. The app displays available delivery requests, estimated earnings per trip, pickup and drop-off locations, and customer ratings.
Uber provides in-app tutorials and support resources, but there’s no formal training program. New deliverers should understand the app’s core features: accepting orders, navigating routes, handling customer communication, and managing ratings and feedback. You can also access Uber’s online resources and community forums for tips from experienced drivers.
Uber Eats Earnings and Payment
Your earnings consist of three components: base pay (determined by distance and time), surge pricing during peak hours, and customer tips. Uber calculates base pay before you accept the delivery, so you know the guaranteed minimum. Tips are added on top and can increase your total earnings significantly–many customers tip $2–5 per delivery.
You’ll receive weekly payouts every Tuesday to your linked bank account or debit card. There are no hidden fees deducted from your earnings; Uber’s commission is built into the base pay rate. However, you’re an independent contractor responsible for covering vehicle expenses, fuel, maintenance, and insurance.
Uber occasionally offers promotions to drivers, such as completion bonuses (“Complete 10 deliveries in a week and earn an extra $50”) and surge incentives during high-demand times. These bonuses vary by location and time of year.
Uber Eats Pros and Challenges
Advantages: Uber Eats offers complete schedule flexibility–you work whenever you want, for as long as you want. The app is user-friendly and widely available, with a large customer base in most urban and suburban areas. Payments arrive weekly, and there’s no minimum number of deliveries required. You can also earn money with your own vehicle without major upfront investment beyond what you already own.
Challenges: Earnings fluctuate based on demand, time of day, and location. During slow periods, deliveries may be sparse, reducing hourly income. Vehicle maintenance, fuel, and insurance are entirely your responsibility–these costs significantly impact your net profit. Weather conditions, traffic, and difficult customer interactions can make the work stressful. Additionally, Uber’s base pay rates have declined over time in many markets, making tips increasingly important to earning a competitive hourly rate.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the background check take?
Most background checks complete within 2–5 business days. In some high-demand areas, Uber expedites approval to 24–48 hours. You can check your application status in the app under “Account” > “Application Status.”
Can I deliver for Uber Eats without a car?
Yes. Uber Eats accepts bicycles, e-bikes, scooters, motorcycles, and other vehicles. Bike and scooter delivery is popular in densely populated urban areas and often results in shorter wait times between deliveries.
What happens if a customer leaves a bad review?
Customer ratings affect your account standing. If your rating drops below 4.6 stars, Uber may deactivate your account pending review. Most negative ratings stem from late deliveries or food order mistakes (not your responsibility), but maintaining professionalism helps protect your rating.
Can I drive for Uber Eats and regular Uber simultaneously?
Yes. If you’re approved for UberX (rideshare), you can toggle between Uber Eats delivery and passenger rides in the app. Some drivers do both to maximize earnings and stay busy during slow periods.
Are there earning guarantees?
Uber Eats doesn’t guarantee a minimum hourly rate, but certain promotions and scheduled delivery blocks may include guaranteed minimums. Actual earnings depend on your market’s demand, your acceptance rate, and delivery efficiency.