If you’ve had a felony looking for a new job, you’re likely wondering if you can drive an Uber. The answer is complicated, and there are a few things you need to know before applying.
The primary concern is whether or not Uber will allow felons to drive for them. The good news is that the answer isn’t a black-and-white yes or no.
It depends on several factors. Uber’s background check requirements focus heavily on the conviction’s length, as well as its type and nature.
Generally, the more serious the crime and the more recent it was committed, the less likely they are to approve your application.
In this article, we’ll discuss how Uber handles felons in detail so you can make an informed decision about applying.
Additionally, we’ll provide tips on maximizing your chances of getting accepted as an Uber driver with a felony conviction.
Can You Drive For Uber With A Felony?
Driving for Uber can be an excellent way to make money, but if you have a felony, the answer is not so simple.
Uber’s background check policy does not allow prospective drivers to have a felony record in the past seven years. However, exceptions apply depending on the crime and your state’s laws.
In general, many felonies related to theft or fraud may disqualify you from driving for Uber, while other, more minor, non-violent felonies may not be a problem.
That said, even if your felony is eligible, Uber may still decide whether or not it is appropriate for you to drive based on the details of your case.
Uber also has separate rules regarding driving in Canada and accepting cash payments.
If you plan to drive in Canada, read up on their specific regulations – as they tend to differ by province.
Similarly, accepting cash payments as an Uber driver (available in some countries) will require extra checks before Uber’s security team approves them.
Felony Offenses That Might Disqualify You From Driving for Uber
When it comes to whether or not you can drive for Uber with a felony, it ultimately depends on the type of offense and when your conviction occurred.
Driving for Uber requires you to be in good standing with the law and adhere to their guidelines before they consider hiring you.
In general, if you’ve had any of the following convictions within the past seven years, you likely won’t be able to drive for Uber:
- Violent felonies such as murder, assault, battery, and illegal use of a weapon
- Sexual offenses, including rape, solicitation, and sexual assault
- Felony theft or property damage
- Fraudulent activities such as identity theft and insurance fraud
- Any other felonies related to acts of dishonesty
However, if these apply to you but your convictions were more than seven years ago.
Also, if you were dismissed or expunged, there’s a chance that your application might still be approved.
Remember that background checks will also come into play when considering the severity of the offense.
Factors That May Affect Whether a Felony Disqualifies You From Driving for Uber
When driving for Uber, a few factors may affect whether you’re disqualified due to a felony conviction.
The type of crime you committed, and the actual date of your conviction, can both have a bearing on whether you can become an Uber driver.
Let’s take a closer look at each of these factors:
Type of Crime Committed
The type of crime committed is usually considered when assessing an Uber driver application.
Violent crimes or those involving drugs or alcohol are typically disqualifying offenses.
Also, minor traffic violations and other non-violent offenses are generally looked upon more favorably.
Date of Conviction
The date of your conviction can also play a role in determining whether you can drive for Uber.
Depending on the state where the offense occurred, certain convictions may not disqualify you if they happened more than seven years ago.
Check with your local government regulations to get more information on this point.
Ultimately, everyone’s situation is unique. It pays to double-check with your local regulations to see if there are any special considerations when applying for an Uber driver position or other ride-sharing opportunities with a felony on record.
Requirements to Become an Uber Driver With a Felony in the U.S.
Do you have a felony conviction and wonder if you can drive for Uber? Well, that depends on the type of felony, when it happened, your state laws, and Uber’s policies.
Here’s what you need to know;
Types of Felonies That Will Disqualify You
Under federal law, Uber cannot employ people with certain felony convictions, like those involving theft or fraud.
State laws may also prohibit people with felonies from driving for a ride-hailing service like Uber.
How Long Ago the Felony Occurred
In some states, any felony conviction will permanently bar you from becoming an Uber driver.
However, some states allow drivers convicted of certain felonies within a specific time frame (usually 5–7 years) to be approved as Uber drivers.
Also, you must check your local laws to see what’s allowed.
Background Check Requirements
Uber requires all its drivers to pass a background check. The company’s third-party screening partner checks the driver during this background check process.
They pull the driver applicant’s criminal history from various local and national databases (including those related to sexual offenses).
They review this data in light of state law and Uber’s safety standards before granting (or denying) approval.
As long as you fit into the “acceptable” criteria mentioned above related to types of felonies and time frames, there’s a chance you may still be approved as an Uber driver!
Requirements to Become an Uber Driver With a Felony in Canada
If you have a felony five years or older, you might be in luck when becoming an Uber driver.
You must meet specific requirements from Uber and the local government before proceeding with your application.
1. Uber Requirements
Uber requires all its drivers to have a valid driver’s license and a clean driving record for the past three years.
In Canada, a criminal background check is also mandatory for potential drivers. This includes checking for convictions within the past seven years (which would include any felonies in this range).
2. Local Government Requirements
The requirements vary from province to province, so you must do your due diligence and research what is expected of you to become an Uber driver in your area.
In some provinces, having a felony will disqualify you from being able to obtain an operating license.
However, some provinces allow those with felonies to obtain a license after showing evidence of good behavior (such as letters of reference or official documents).
You may also be allowed to re-apply after a while if your conviction was more than five years ago.
Ultimately, whether or not you can drive for Uber with a felony depends on the severity and nature of the conviction.
Also, where you live in Canada and what local regulations are in place. It is possible for those with felonies who meet the requirements and submit proper applications to become Uber drivers.
Considerations for Working as an Uber Driver With a Felony
If you’ve been convicted of a felony, you may think that your options for work are slim.
But in fact, many employers are willing to look beyond a criminal record and will hire felons if they meet specific criteria.
Uber is one such employer that considers applicants with a felony—but it’s essential to know that there may still be some considerations to remember if you’re applying as an Uber driver with a felony on your record.
Here are some of the things to consider when applying as an Uber driver with a felony:
1. The specific type of conviction
Uber may not approve your application to drive for them, depending on the severity or type of crime.
Criminal background checks typically include misdemeanors and felonies in the last seven years, but in some cases, older convictions can be considered.
2. Your driving record
Lyft (Uber’s biggest competitor) has ruled out applicants with criminal convictions related to vehicular homicide, reckless driving, or driving under the influence (DUI) of drugs or alcohol within the last seven years.
The same criteria apply to Uber as well. So if you have any convictions about this kind of activity, it will likely disqualify you from being approved as an Uber driver.
3. Time since the conviction
Speaking of which—the farther away in time your conviction is, the less significant an impact it will typically have on your application process (assuming all other factors remain equal).
So even if you have had a conviction, that doesn’t automatically rule out being approved as an Uber driver—it depends on how long ago it was.
Finding Success as an Uber Driver With a Felon
The good news is that many felons have found success as Uber drivers, despite the complex and sometimes overwhelming questions around their eligibility.
As an Uber driver with a felony, understanding the laws and regulations surrounding background checks is vital for success.
Laws and Regulations
The laws regarding felons driving for Uber vary from state to state. While some may disqualify you based on a felony conviction, others may allow you to drive if you can show proof of rehabilitation or good moral character.
It’s worth taking the time to research your local laws and regulations to ensure your eligibility before you apply.
Demonstrating Rehabilitation
You’ll need to show that you can be trusted to get approved as an Uber driver with a felony charge in most states.
To do this, it’s crucial to demonstrate that rehabilitation has occurred since the offense occurred.
This can include presenting references from people who have seen personal growth and improvement over time or showing evidence of active participation in rehabilitative programs such as special courses or counseling programs.
Furthermore, maintaining a perfect driving record since your conviction will be beneficial when applying for a ride-sharing job.
Having an impeccable driving record shows Uber that you can follow the rules of the road and puts them at ease about allowing you to pick up passengers safely.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the answer to whether you can drive for Uber with a felony is “it depends.”
The specifics of the offense and the time since the conviction will dictate if you’re eligible or not.
Unfortunately, the answer won’t be simple. Still, with some research and determination, you should be able to find out where you stand and make an informed decision about your future as a rideshare driver.
Regardless of your past, you can always move forward and start fresh. Driving for Uber can be a great way to make money and provide for your family.
Don’t think of it as a barrier but a challenge you can overcome if you’re willing to research and make an effort. Good luck!
