Georgia has several large and medium-sized cities, such as Atlanta and Savanah. They have some public transportation options, but youโll also find areas where you wonโt see any trains or buses. If youโre at one of those spots, you might want to call for a Lyft or an Uber.
You may also feel like you want to drive for one of those companies or even both of them. You can do that, but youโll need to meet certain qualifications. Weโll talk about those a little bit right now.
What Are the Key Requirements for Uber and Lyft Drivers in Georgia?
Uber or Lyft driver requirements in Georgia do exist, and you should know about them if you plan to pursue this career path. The first and probably the most obvious qualification involves your driverโs license. You need a valid driverโs license to work for a rideshare company in Georgia, or any other state, for that matter.
If you need to wear contacts or glasses because you donโt have perfect vision, and your driverโs license stipulates that, youโll need to wear those corrective lenses or whatever else you use to improve your eyesight. You must submit a valid driverโs license to the company when they hire you. If you canโt produce one, Lyft and Uber wonโt let you join them until you rectify the situation.
The Age Requirement
If you choose to drive for Uber or Lyft in Georgia, you must also meet the age requirement. You can get your driverโs license as young as 16, but you canโt drive for one of these companies until you turn 21.
That might frustrate you if you havenโt reached that age, but the companies seem to feel that you need a little more practical driving experience before you represent them. If they hire you at 21, they think youโre less likely to commit the mistakes you might at age 16 or even 18.
You Need Several Documents
If you plan to drive for Lyft or Uber in Georgia, you also need several documents when the company considers hiring you. You will need to show them your vehicleโs valid registration. You must also produce your insurance proof that youโll carry in the glove compartment or elsewhere in the car.
You must have proof of work eligibility. Finally, youโll need to give the rideshare company your Social Security number. You donโt need your actual Social Security card. Just the number will suffice.
A Smartphone
Youโll need to have a newer-model smartphone. If you have an iPhone or something similar that came out in the past few years, you should do fine with that. You need a phone to which you can download the Uber or Lyft app that youโll use to locate potential passengers.
You should also understand that these companies regularly come out with new rideshare app versions and updates. You must connect to Wi-Fi or use data to get those new versions when they come out.
Pass a Background Check
You will need to pass a basic background check as well. If you donโt have a criminal record, you should do fine in this regard. If you’ve got just one or two minor offenses on your record, thatโs probably okay. If you have a felony, itโs less likely the company will hire you.
Your driving record matters just as much as any past criminal offenses, though. Either Lyft or Uber wants to know that you wonโt speed, drive drunk, or do anything else that might potentially harm a passenger and hurt the companyโs reputation.
Vehicle Requirements
Georgia residents who want to drive for Uber or Lyft must also have a vehicle that matches either companyโs requirements. Both companies want more or less the same thing regarding driver vehicles.
Your vehicle should have four doors and be 15 years old or newer. It should not have any obvious commercial branding. You donโt want any large signs advertising energy drinks or some other product where a rider will notice them.
Your car should not have any large dents or other apparent problems. A small scratch might pass inspection, but serious damage prohibits you from becoming a Lyft or Uber driver.
Georgia residents that meet all of these qualifications can consider driving for a rideshare company. You can make your own hours, and youโll also make decent money if you work full-time. For many individuals, thatโs enough incentive to apply for one of these jobs.