What do you need to become an Uber driver in Birmingham, the West Midlands or elsewhere in the UK? As an Uber driver, you can set your own working hours and choose to expand your work by signing up to Uber Eats. But there are certain steps you need to follow before you can start earning as a driver.
There are two sets of rules you’ll need to follow – Uber’s regulations and your local council’s private hire licensing laws. But it’s not as confusing as it sounds, since most of the requirements overlap.
Here’s everything you need to know about applying to become an Uber driver in the UK.
Why do Uber Drivers Need a Private Hire Licence in the UK?
In the UK, Uber drivers need to hold a private hire driver or PCO licence. Also known as a taxi licence, the PCO licence is issued by your local authority so exact rules can differ between cities.
The good news is that you can sign up with Uber before you get your taxi licence (though you can’t pick up passengers until the end of the process). Here’s what you need to do to start driving with Uber.
Steps to Apply to Become an Uber Driver
To apply to become an Uber driver in the UK, you’ll need to pass a screening process that covers your driving history, car and licence details, criminal records, and proof of your right to work in the UK. This what you need to do to become an Uber driver in the UK, step by step:
- Sign up to Uber with details of the city you’re based in and the driving licence you hold
- Attend a personalised Ignition appointment if you need support to get a private hire licence
- Apply to your local council for a private hire driver licence
- Upload the relevant documents to Uber
- Attend an EduMe virtual onboarding course
- Register for self-assessment tax returns
Requirements to Work as an Uber Driver in the UK
Who’s eligible? If you want to become an Uber driver in the UK, you’re required to be 21 or over and hold a valid UK driving licence. You will need:
- A current, valid UK drivers’ licence
- A driver photo taken at an Uber Greenlight Hub
- Banks statements in your name
- To apply for a private hire vehicle licence with your local authority
- A car that meets Uber standards (or a plan to hire – more info on this later)
To activate your Uber account and start earning money, you also need to provide these documents:
- Disclosure and Barring Service Certificate (DBS certificate)
- Private hire licence from your local council
- National Insurance number
You can find the full Uber driver application details here.
What Cars Can Be Used for Uber?
It’s not just the driver who needs to tick boxes – Uber drivers need to drive a car that’s up to the company’s standards. To drive an Uber in Birmingham, your vehicle needs to be a minivan or 4-door car with space for at least 4 passengers – in other words, a 5- to 8-seater. It’s got to be in good condition (no visible damage is allowed), manufactured in 2009 or later, and the make and model need to meet the local licensing standards.
But did you know that you can drive for Uber without owning a car? You can pick up passengers without owning your own vehicle by hiring through Uber Approved Rental Partners. Before you can reach that stage though, you’ll need that all-important private hire car licence from your local council.
Requirements to Drive a Private Hire Car in Birmingham
Every local authority controls its own private hire car licensing, and Uber drivers in Birmingham have to meet the same standards as other minicabs. These are the private hire licence requirements for Birmingham City Council, and you’ll need to pass them all to become an Uber driver in the city.
- Evidence that you can live and work in the UK
- Proof of address
- Pass the private hire knowledge test
- Complete a DBS check
- Attend Disability Awareness sessions
- Pass the Birmingham City Council driving test
- Pass a private hire drivers’ medical examination
You can find the full rules and guidance for private hire drivers in Birmingham here.
If you want to work as an Uber driver elsewhere in the West Midlands or the UK, check your local council’s rules and regulations.
Get Your Uber Driver Medical
To get your private hire licence in Birmingham, you need to book an appointment with a registered, fully qualified doctor for a private hire car driver medical assessment. If you’re based in Birmingham or the West Midlands, we can help – at My Driver Medical, you’ll see a doctor with experience of carrying out DVLA medicals. Just book up your driver medical and bring your local authority’s driver medical form on the day.