Uber Eats background check

Before you can get approved as an Uber Eats driver, your application will undergo a background check. This process looks at your driving and criminal histories and verifies your age. Some states and local jurisdictions also have extra requirements you must meet in order to qualfify. 

Background check process

The process includes three main checks: 

• Motor vehicle report (information from the last 7 years)
• Age verification
• Criminal history (entire record, egardless of when a conviction occurred)

It does not, however, include a credit check. 

Additional state guidelines 

In addition to meeting the Uber Eats background check requirements, you may also have to meet certain state guidelines depending on where you live.

For instance, NYC Uber drivers must also follow processes from the Taxi and Limousine Commission, which includes a drug test, defensive driving course, 24-hour driver education course, and an exam. 

Background checks repeat annually

Once accepted as an Uber Eats driver, you’ll have background checks run at least once a year (and potentially more frequently depending on where you live). 

Motor vehicle report

Your motor vehicle report confirms to Uber Eats that you have a valid and current driver’s license in the U.S. It also confirms the length of your driving experience. The requirements vary by age:

• At least three years if you’re under 25
• At least one year if you’re 25 or older

The motor vehicle report also lists out any incidents you’ve had over the last year. Uber Eats doesn’t specifically list out disqualifying incidents, so it’s unclear whether minor driving infractions would hurt your ability to get approved to drive. 

Age verification

Most states have a minimum age requirement of 19 years old for driving, but there are a few exceptions. Here’s how each state stacks up. Note that the default age for Uber Eats deliveries by bicycle or on foot is 18 years old.

Criminal history may be a disqualifying factor

Both criminal convictions and pending charges may disqualify you from being approved as an Uber Eats driver. There are three primary charges that will automatically disqualify your application: murder, sexual assault, and terrorism-related crimes. You may be able to successfully re-apply if you have pending charges that have since been dismissed. 

Uber Eats also notes that additional local regulations may apply depending on where you live. For instance, you may need to show evidence of rehabilitation or good character in order to deliver in certain geographic areas. 

Mileage tracking made easy

Trusted by millions of drivers

Automate your logbook Automate your logbook

Claim your deductions

Reclaim your time

Automatic mileage tracking and IRS-compliant reporting.

Get started for free Get started for free

How to start your background check 

Uber works with three different background check companies that may execute your review: Checkr, HireRight, and Samba Safety. The process starts when you sign up to deliver with Uber Eats. You’ll need to include information such as your Social Security number, driver’s license number, your vehicle details, and proof of auto insurance. 

From there, one of the third-party vendors initiates the background check. You’ll be contacted if additional information is needed to process your application.

How long does a background check take for Uber Eats?

The minimum amount of time you can expect is three to five business days. 

Reasons your Uber Eats background check could be delayed

Delays may occur in the following situations:

• Your local government processes are longer.
• There are access issues with courthouse records.
• You need to upload additional information, like your Social Security number or your driver’s license.
• Your driving history hasn’t been verified.
• The background check company wants other information. You’ll be contacted over email if this is the case. 

The Uber Eats background check time varies, but you can track your status to identify any potential holdups. 

How to track your background check status

Figuring out your Uber Eats background check status depends on which company conducted your background check. The Checkr Uber Eats Candidate Portal shows your current status. There are four options you may see:

• Onboarding: You’re still under review.
• Waitlisted or Suspended: There may be an issue with documentation, and you will be contacted to provide more information. 
• Consider: Your background check is under review.
• Active: You’re approved to deliver for Uber Eats. 

For HireRight and Samba Safety background checks, you can use the chat feature in your Uber app to check on your background check status. 

What to do if your Uber Eats background check is rejected

There are a few reasons your background check may fail:

• You have certain criminal convictions or pending charges.
• You don’t meet your state’s driving age or driving experience requirements.
• You have driving infractions on your motor vehicle report.

You can find out what’s on your background check once it’s complete. Checkr allows you to access your report in the Candidate Portal, or you can use the Uber app chat function to find out why you failed with HireRight or Samba Safety. 

If you disagree with the information on your background check, you can file a dispute with the vendor. Alternatively, you may be able to get negative records expunged from your driving record.

When nothing can be changed to get your background check approved, you must wait 2-4  to reapply. in the meantime, you can apply to other delivery or rideshare companies that may have different application requirements.

FAQ