How Long Does It Take for Uber and Lyft to Approve You to Begin Driving?

The approval process for becoming a driver with Uber or Lyft can vary, but generally it takes anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks. This article will provide a detailed breakdown of the typical steps and factors that may influence the approval time.

Application Submission

After you submit your application, Uber and Lyft usually require just a few hours to a few days to review your information. This initial stage is crucial and ensures that your documents are complete and accurate. Any missing or incorrect information can delay the process significantly.

Background Check

The background check is often the longest part of the process. This thorough vetting can take anywhere from a few days to a week, depending on factors such as the volume of applications and the thoroughness of the check.

Lyft noted that for some applicants, this step can take as long as a week. However, for others, it can be completed within three to four days. Background checks typically include a credit score check conducted by at least two of the three major credit bureaus, a driving record check in states where you have lived, and a search in the law enforcement database and legal databases for any criminal or ongoing court records.

Vehicle Inspection

If you opt for a vehicle inspection, it can take additional time, but many drivers can complete it quickly. This step involves verifying that your vehicle meets Uber and Lyft's quality standards, such as being clean and in good condition. Completing this step without delays can expedite your overall approval process.

Final Approval

Once your background check and, if applicable, vehicle inspection are completed, you will receive final approval. This allows you to start driving. The approval notification often comes within a few days of the completion of these checks.

Expedite the Process

To expedite the approval process, ensure that all your documents are in order and submitted promptly. Keep in mind that delays can occur if there is any incomplete or incorrect information. If you have specific concerns, both Uber and Lyft have support channels that can provide updates on your application status.

Personal Experiences

Here are some personal experiences from drivers:

One driver, for example, applied to both Uber and Lyft on the same day, a few hours apart. Uber approved them in a couple of hours, while Lyft acknowledged the application and took three days to say it would take four more days. Lyft's detailed background check, including checking credit scores and driving records, was completed and they were approved for driving within six days of their application.

Another driver noted that the typical approval time for Lyft is around 2.5 weeks, which is often quicker than Uber. However, both companies can take longer if their background checks are more thorough or the number of applications is high.

Conclusion

While the average approval time for Uber and Lyft can range from a few days to a couple of weeks, the background check process tends to be the longest. By ensuring that your documents are complete and accurate, and taking advantage of support channels if needed, you can expedite the process and start driving sooner.

If you have any questions or need further assistance, feel free to reach out. I also have a free video training program that I can share to help new Uber drivers get started.