Yes, Uber Eats requires a valid driver's license to deliver food
Uber Eats will not let you start deliveries without a current, valid driver's license. The company checks your license during the sign-up process and again periodically while you work. If your license expires, is suspended, or is revoked, your account will be deactivated until you provide proof of a valid license.
The license must be from a U.S. state or territory and match the name and address you use to set up your account. If you have recently moved, you will need to update your address with your state's DMV and provide Uber Eats with the updated license information before you can continue working.
This requirement applies whether you deliver by car, motorcycle, or scooter. Uber Eats does not offer a workaround for drivers without a valid license, and using someone else's license or a fake license will result in permanent account termination and potential legal consequences.
Key Takeaways
- Uber Eats verifies your driver's license during sign-up and will deactivate your account if your license expires or is suspended.
- Your license must be valid, current, and match the name and address on your Uber Eats account.
- If you have a suspended or revoked license, you cannot work for Uber Eats until your driving privileges are restored.
- Updating your address with your state DMV is necessary before you can update your Uber Eats profile with a new license.
- Uber Eats does not accept expired licenses, learner's permits, or international licenses for delivery work in the United States.
What happens if your license is suspended or revoked
If your license is suspended or revoked, Uber Eats will when ready deactivate your account once the company learns of the change. This can happen through a background check update or when you attempt to renew your license information in the app. You will not be able to accept or complete deliveries during the suspension period.
To reactivate your account, you must first have your driving privileges restored by your state's DMV. Once your license is valid again, you will need to upload a photo of your new or reinstated license to Uber Eats and pass a new background check. The reactivation process typically takes three to five business days.
Learner's permits and temporary licenses do not work
Uber Eats will not accept a learner's permit, provisional license, or temporary paper license as proof of driving status. These documents do not meet the company's requirements because they do not represent full, unrestricted driving privileges.
If you are a new driver with only a learner's permit, you will need to pass your state's driving test and receive a full driver's license before you can sign up with Uber Eats. The same applies if you have a temporary license issued while your permanent card is being printed — you must wait for the permanent license to arrive.
International licenses and licenses from other countries
Uber Eats does not accept driver's licenses issued outside the United States, even if you are a legal resident or citizen. If you have moved to the U.S. from another country, you will need to obtain a U.S. driver's license from your state's DMV before you can work for Uber Eats.
Some states allow you to exchange a valid foreign license for a U.S. license without retaking the driving test, though you will still need to pass a written test on state traffic laws. Check your state DMV's website for the specific process and documents required for license conversion.
How Uber Eats verifies your license during sign-up
When you create an Uber Eats driver account, you will be asked to upload a photo of both the front and back of your driver's license. Uber Eats uses automated verification software to read the license information and confirm that the name, date of birth, and license number match what you entered in the app.
The company also runs a background check that includes verification with your state's DMV to confirm your license is currently valid and not suspended or revoked. This check typically completes within 24 to 48 hours. If there is a mismatch between your license and your account information, Uber Eats will ask you to resubmit or correct your details before you can start working.
Updating your license information if you move or renew
If you renew your driver's license or move to a new state, you must update your information in the Uber Eats app before your old license expires. Go to your account settings, select "Driver Documents," and upload a photo of your new or updated license. Uber Eats will verify the new information within one to two business days.
If your license expires before you update it in the app, your account will be deactivated and you will not be able to accept deliveries. Reactivation requires uploading a valid license and passing a new background check, which can take several days. To avoid gaps in your work, update your license information at least two weeks before your current license expires.
What to do if your license is lost, stolen, or damaged
If your license is lost, stolen, or too damaged to read, contact your state's DMV to request a replacement. Most states can issue a replacement license within one to two weeks, either by mail or in person at a DMV office. Some states offer expedited replacement for an additional fee.
Once you receive your replacement license, upload a photo of it to Uber Eats when ready. Your account will remain deactivated until the new license is verified. If you need to work while waiting for your replacement, contact Uber Eats support to explain the situation — the company may grant a brief extension, though this is not may provide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a digital or mobile driver's license instead of a physical card?
Most states now offer digital driver's licenses through their DMV apps, but Uber Eats currently requires a photo of a physical license card. Check with Uber Eats support to see if your state's digital license is accepted, as policies vary by region and change over time.
What if my name on my license does not match my Uber Eats account name?
Your license name must match your account name exactly. If you recently changed your name legally, update your driver's license with your state DMV first, then update your Uber Eats account with the new name and upload a photo of the updated license.
Do I need a commercial driver's license to deliver for Uber Eats?
No. Uber Eats requires only a standard passenger vehicle driver's license. A commercial driver's license (CDL) is not necessary and is typically required only for larger vehicles or hazardous materials, neither of which explore to food delivery.
What happens if I let my license expire while working for Uber Eats?
Your account will be deactivated as soon as Uber Eats detects the expiration, which usually happens during a routine background check. You will not be able to accept new deliveries. Reactivation requires uploading proof of a valid license and passing a new background check.
Can someone else's license be used if I do not have one?
No. Using another person's license is fraud and will result in permanent account termination, legal consequences, and potential criminal charges. Uber Eats requires the license to match the person doing the work.