Uber has created job opportunities for most people around the world today. It’s a great way to make money and be your own boss. Anyone can become an Uber/Uber Eats driver but must first undergo a strict Uber Background Check.
The stringent requirements of Uber make many people wonder whether they will be able to become Uber drivers.
This article will help answer some of the major questions out there.
Background checks are a necessity in any job application. It is however very important when it comes to Uber because as a driver you’re being trusted with the safety of people and goods.
What Does The Background Check Entail?
- Motor Vehicle Report (MVR)
- Criminal Background Check
These evaluations vary from city to city. They’re based on local laws and regulations governing rideshare as well as Uber’s internal safety standards. Background checks in Kenya are performed by Peleza International.
Motor Vehicle Report
Some of the requirements needed here are:
- You must have a valid driver’s license
- Motor vehicle registration book
- PSV insurance
- Vehicle inspection report
- Business permit
- National identification card
Major or recent violations may lead to disqualification. Violations should be no more than 3 major violations in the last 3 years or NO major violations in the last 7 years.
Minor violations include;
- Speeding
- Driving without a license
- Driving without insurance
- Traffic lights violation
Major violations include;
- Hit and run accidents
- Street racing
- Speeding more than 100mph
- Reckless driving
Criminal Background Check
By the local law, the following criminal activities will result in disqualification.
- Terrorism related offenses
- Convictions for felonies
- Sexual offenses
- Registered sex offenders
- Violent crimes
- Murder
Background check – Screening process
Some countries or states do a safety screening process on top of a background check. This could take more time before the results are out. The process is as follows;
- Open an online profile
- Load your documents – Upload your valid PSV license and national identity card only after all the other documents have been approved. You will be notified via text message to schedule a screening check.
- Screening check – Documents to present are; Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) receipt, national identity card, driver’s license, and PSV driving license.
After the safety screening process, the waiting period for the background check begins.
- On boarding stage – It means that your documents are being reviewed.
- Waitlisted stage – There might be an issue with your documentation either during upload or system failure.
- Results – A background check has been completed. You may be considered or rejected. Once you see the active status, you’re ready to start your Uber driver journey.
How long does it take to be approved?
You can expect the background check to take between 5-10 business days. The process takes such an amount of time because it reviews past and pending criminal convictions and your driving record.
You should keep tracking your application online.
What happens in the case of rejection?
Unfortunately Uber does not communicate if you’re rejected. You may face rejection if you fail to pass one of the requirements needed.
If you feel that the rejection was biased, you should contact Uber directly by using the Uber help portal.
You can also reapply but you’ll have to wait 2-4 months. This application can only be done through help since you’ll already be in their system as a driver from a previous application.
How to avoid rejection?
Before applying, you should do your background check. In case you have concerns about your past, you can try to do the following.
Request your motor vehicle report, go through it first. If you happen to have some minor traffic violations, you can do a short course on traffic safety to help revoke those violations.
If you have ever paid a fine or a case was dismissed, you can make sure those don’t appear on the background check by getting a police clearance certificate first before applying.
Make sure all the documents required are visible, followed all the instructions provided, and are well uploaded. Blurred documents may lead to disqualification.
Conclusion
Uber background checks are very important for the safety of both drivers, and riders and protect the company as well. Regulation on the process is being reviewed but will remain very strict and monitored.
You should now have a clear understanding of what Uber background checks entail, all the documents required, and personal information.
You’re aware of what to expect when you decide to become an Uber driver and what to do about your background check to avoid rejection.
Hopefully, this article has been of help and has answered the questions you had on the Uber background check!
Frequently asked questions.
- How do I fix my Uber background check?
- How strict is Uber’s background check?
- Why is my Uber background check suspended?
- How do I book an Uber appointment?
- Can I skip the Uber background check?
- Is Uber’s background check done by Uber?
