The requirements for becoming an Uber Eats delivery partner are not uniform. The minimum age necessary depends heavily on the chosen method of transportation, a distinction Uber Eats uses to manage the different levels of risk associated with various vehicles. Understanding this difference is the first step toward determining your eligibility to sign up and begin accepting delivery requests.
Age Requirements Based on Delivery Method
The minimum age for becoming an Uber Eats delivery partner varies based on whether the delivery method is motorized or non-motorized. Individuals delivering using a bicycle or by walking must be a minimum of 18 years old, which aligns with the age of majority in most US states. This lower requirement reflects the reduced liability associated with non-motorized transport.
The age requirement increases for those operating a motorized vehicle, such as a car, scooter, or moped, where the minimum age is generally 19 years old in most US markets. This higher threshold reflects insurance policies and the increased responsibility that comes with operating a motor vehicle for commercial purposes. While 19 is the standard for car delivery, local laws or specific restaurant partnerships, such as those involving the delivery of alcohol, may impose a higher minimum age of 21 years.
General Requirements for All Delivery Partners
Certain foundational requirements apply universally to all applicants, regardless of the delivery method. Every delivery partner must demonstrate legal eligibility to work in the country or region where they plan to operate, providing documentation to confirm their work status. This legal clearance is a mandatory step in the application process for all independent contractors.
A comprehensive background screening is required for every potential partner, involving a review of criminal history. For those delivering by car, this screening expands to include a check of the motor vehicle record to assess driving history. Finally, all partners must possess a reliable smartphone capable of running the Uber Partner application, as the app serves as the core interface for accepting orders, navigating to locations, and tracking earnings.
Vehicle and Documentation Standards
The type of vehicle used for delivery dictates the required documentation and vehicle standards. Partners using a car or motorized scooter must possess a valid driver’s license that is current and appropriate for the vehicle being operated. For car deliveries, the vehicle must meet certain age criteria, with some markets requiring the car to be no older than a 1998 model year, though exact vehicle age limits can vary by city.
Motorized vehicle partners must also submit proof of current vehicle registration and their personal auto insurance policy. This insurance must meet the state’s minimum liability coverage requirements. While commercial insurance is not usually required, the personal policy must be active and list the applicant’s name on the document. In contrast, delivery partners using a bicycle or walking only need to provide a government-issued photo identification, as driver’s licenses, vehicle registration, and auto insurance are not necessary for non-motorized transport.
Steps to Start Delivering
The process to become an active delivery partner begins with an online application where the individual provides personal information and selects their intended mode of transportation. During this initial sign-up, the applicant uploads digital copies of all the necessary documentation, such as their driver’s license, insurance, and vehicle registration for car drivers, or a government-issued ID for others.
Once all documents are uploaded, the application moves into the verification and background check phase, which typically takes a few days to process. Uber uses a third-party service to review the submitted information and conduct the required screenings. Upon successful completion of the background check and document verification, the applicant receives notification that their account has been activated, allowing them to log into the partner app and begin accepting delivery requests.