How To Become an Uber Driver In Australia: Explained

Whether you want to bring in extra money while studying or enjoy a gig with a lot of flexibility, consider becoming a driver partner using the Uber app.

The best part is that no formal education or interview requirements exist to earn extra income by driving with the Uber app in Australia.

As a driver-partner, you control how much and when you drive, pending applicable driving time limits. If you want to start driving with the Uber app and enjoy a convenient, flexible earning opportunity, this article is your guide to discovering more!

If you want to know how to become an Uber Eats Delivery Person in Australia, please click HERE.

1. What Is Uber?

Uber is a technology platform that enables independent driver partners to connect with and provide rideshare services to riders.

The Uber app offers a flexible earning opportunity to rideshare drivers from any driving industry, such as truck, taxi, bus, catering, limo, and commercial drivers.

It is a fabulous alternative to part-time, temporary, or seasonal driver jobs. Driver-partners are independent and can set flexible work schedules based on their other commitments. You can drive when and wherever you want.

2. How Does Driving With The Uber App Work?

Uber's platform matches consumers looking for rides with independent ride service providers. Before a driver-partner can use the Uber app, he must meet jurisdiction-specific eligibility requirements, background checks, and vehicle inspections.

As an Uber rider, you can request a ride at any time with a tap, connecting you with a driver-partner who can take you where you need to go.

3. Benefits Of Becoming A Driver Partner With The Uber App

If you have been toying with the idea of driving with the Uber app, then here are some of the best reasons to pursue this earning opportunity:

• Access a 24/7 online support team in-app to solve your queries.

• You can decide your driving hours and time (morning/evening). 

• Work as little or as much as you wish. It makes it the ultimate flexible work.

• Earnings are released each week. You can withdraw them anytime.

• The Uber app tracks you to keep you safe and connected to emergency authorities before, during, and after each trip.

• Set your flexible work hours.

• Read a book or listen to a podcast in your downtime.

• No makeup or uniform required

• Get discounts on fuel and other rewards with Uber Pro. 

4. Types Of Uber Rides In Australia

• UberX: UberX is a popular option for riders as they can enjoy a private ride at an everyday price. 

• Extra Room: These services include UberBlack, UberSUV, and UberXL, which may be available in your city. These options aim to provide riders with an enhanced experience at a premium. You may be keen on these if you are a more experienced driver or have access to a vehicle that meets the requirements.

• Hybrid: Driver-partners can also accept ride requests from multiple categories if they meet the requirements. It is a better way to reduce idle time and increase revenue.

5. What Are Uber's Driver Partner Requirements In Australia?

You must fulfil specific requirements to drive with the Uber app. These qualification requirements vary by city as per the local laws and regulations. Please refer to the driver guides for each state for more details (NSW, VIC, QLD, WA, SA, NT and TAS)

• Meet the minimum age requirements

• Have access to a vehicle that meets Uber's vehicle requirements

• Hold a valid full driver's licence in your state or territory.

• Have held a full driver's licence in any Australian state or territory for at least 12 months (exceptions apply in certain states and territories)

• Provide all the necessary documents required in your state or territory

• Be listed as an insured driver for the vehicle you plan to drive.

Please Refer To The City Guides For Vehicle Requirements For Each State or Territory:

• New South Wales (NSW): Uber Driver Sydney Vehicle Requirements

• Victoria (VIC): Uber Driver Melbourne Vehicle Requirements

• Queensland (QLD): Uber Driver Brisbane Vehicle Requirements

• Western Australia (WA): Uber Driver Perth Vehicle Requirements

• South Australia (SA): Uber Driver Adelaide Vehicle Requirements

• Tasmania (TAS): Uber Driver Hobart Vehicle Requirements

Those without access to an Uber-approved vehicle can find one to rent through the Uber Marketplace. 

The Uber Marketplace connects new and existing driver partners with vehicle rental, leasing and finance providers offering ridesharing products.

6. Steps To Driving With The Uber App In Australia

If you meet the eligibility conditions and plan to drive with the Uber app, then here is how you can sign up to drive with the Uber app.

Step 1: Sign Up Online

You can sign up here.

Step 2: Upload Your Documents

You will need to upload your documents, including your driver's licence. 

Once everything is in order, you can download the Uber driver app.

Step 3: Get A Vehicle Inspection

Suppose the vehicle you plan to drive with the Uber app meets your state or territory's requirements. In that case, the next step is to arrange a vehicle inspection to confirm it is roadworthy Requirements vary by location. 

Refer to the Uber website for more detailed driver partner requirements: NSW, VIC, QLD, WA, SA, NT and TAS.

7. How To Maximise Your Earnings with Uber?

In addition to fares from rides, you may be eligible to earn extra if you complete or meet the criteria of promotions available from time to time. Find out more here.

Check the heat map in your Uber app to see when and where rider demand is high so you can earn more on top of your standard fare.

Saving On Driving Expenses With Uber Pro

Uber Pro is a rewards program to recognise driver partners for their commitment and effort. By driving with the Uber app, you'll be able to earn points and unlock status tiers. The higher the tiers, the more rewards you'll have access to.

When earning enough points to reach each higher tier, you unlock rewards. Once you've unlocked the next higher tier, you can enjoy new rewards, such as fuel discounts and free coffee*.

*Free coffee is available with a minimum fuel purchase of 25L

8. Do Driver Partners Go Through A Verification Process?

Yes. It is a crucial step to becoming a rideshare driver in Australia. When you sign up for the Uber app, you must pass a background check.

The process covers criminal history and driving records. It is a secure and private process that varies from state to state.

Now that you know a clear pathway to become a driver partner with Uber in Australia, you are ready to follow the steps and start earning some extra income!

If you want to know how to become an Uber Eats Delivery Person in Australia, please click HERE.

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