June 30, 2016 at 11:57 AM
Uber is a technology platform that is owned and operated by Uber Technologies, an American based online transportation network company. The technology allows drivers registered with it to connect with riders via a mobile app. In cities and towns where the app is operational, clients use the app to request rides from Uber drivers/partners. If a driver nearby accepts the request of the client, the app will display relevant information such as the approximate time of arrival of the driver to the client's location, the type of the driver's car, its number plate as well as the first name of the Uber driver. This information is meant to make the connection at the pick-up easy. At the end of the trip, the client's fare is calculated automatically and charged to the method of payment the client would have linked to their Uber account.
Making Money as Uber Driver
There is no doubt that one can make some good money as an Uber driver. There are many people who have bought new cars to be used exclusively on Uber. However, this is not advisable as you may struggle to break even unless there is a very high demand for taxis in your city or the city you choose to operate in. A better option is to hire or rent a car or buy a used car. You can rent such cars from Uber/Uber partners or on car lease services here in the UK. If you decide to lease the car from a non-Uber entity the car has to meet Uber requirements.
Uber Requirements
Here is a list of some the general Uber car requirements that your car will need to fulfil before you are allowed to drive using Uber platform.
- The car should not be more than 10 years old
- It has to pass Uber's mechanical test
- It should be in good cosmetic shape
- It should have 4 doors and a similar number of seat belts to accommodate 4 passengers
Some of the top cars that are commonly used by Uber drivers include Toyota Prius, Ford Fusion, Honda Civic, Hyundai Sonata and Toyota Corolla. What makes these cars a good investment is their affordability, low maintenance costs, efficiency and reliability.
Requirements for Uber Drivers in the UK
To become a driver with Uber in the UK you need to fulfil the following the requirements:
- Licence: You need to have a Private Hire Licence (PHV). To get this licence you will need to apply through your local council where you will also need to present an updated Disclosure and Barring Service as well as take a medical test. The cost of getting a PHV varies from council to council but on average you may have to spend around £300.
- Insurance: The car you use for Uber has to be insured.
- Pass Uber tests: These tests generally assess the driver's topographical skills.
- Training: Uber gives its applicants a two-hour training before they are allowed to start driving.
The whole process of Uber application can take between 2 to 6 months before approval is made. You can start driving immediately your application is approved.
Uber gives many people an avenue of making money that is flexible and relaxed. As explained above, you don't need to have a lot of money to buy a new car. With a used car you can easily start making money via the Uber platform.