Vehicle and Driver Requirements for Uber and Lyft

Ty Robinson | June 4, 2025 | Car Accidents

Whether you are a frequent rideshare customer or looking to start a new side hustle, learning the requirements to drive for Uber and Lyft can help you better understand how these services work. Both companies enforce similar requirements to promote safety, reduce the risk of car accidents, and protect their reputations.

Here’s everything you need to know.

General Driver Requirements for Ridesharing in Charleston

Both Uber and Lyft enforce strict driver eligibility criteria in Charleston. Some basic requirements include:

A valid driver’s license
Meeting minimum age thresholds
Having a vehicle in good working order

Lyft and Uber also require you to have at least one year of driving experience, but some services may require more experience. You also need a clean driving record and valid car insurance.

Another common theme among all ride-sharing companies is background checks. Rideshare companies will need your permission to conduct a background check so they can check your driving record and criminal history.

If you pass these screenings, you may be able to drive for one of these companies. On the other hand, applicants with a history of speeding or distracted driving may be ineligible.

Vehicle Standards for Uber in Charleston

Before applying to be an Uber driver, you’ll need to make sure you meet the minimum vehicle standards. Uber’s requirements vary by region. Vehicle standards in Charleston, SC, also vary by vehicle make and model, as well as which type of rides you want to offer (i.e., UberX, UberXL).

For instance, you’ll need a four-door vehicle with at least five seats to be listed as an UberX driver. Most vehicles must be a 2009 model or newer. The model year requirements typically increase each calendar year.

Uber has different requirements for higher vehicle tiers. For instance, Uber XL and Uber Black vehicles must meet additional seating and model year standards.

Vehicle Standards for Lyft in Charleston

Lyft vehicle requirements are quite similar. You need a vehicle that has at least four doors and 5-8 seats (including the driver’s seat). Most vehicles must be a model year 2009 or newer.

The biggest difference between Uber and Lyft is the number of vehicle classes. Uber has more vehicle classes compared to Lyft. If you are interested in basic ridesharing, your vehicle simply needs to meet the seating, door, and model year requirements.

However, if you have a larger vehicle, you could opt for a higher listing tier, which could lead to better earning potential.

Uber Driver Requirements and Application Process

If you meet the minimum vehicle requirements, the next step is to check Uber’s driver requirements. To be eligible to drive for Uber, you must:

Be at least 23 years old (25 or older is preferred)
Have one year of driving experience in the United States
Some states also require an in-state license

If you are under 25 years old, you’ll need three years of licensed driving experience. Next, you’ll need to submit the following documents for Uber’s driver screening process:

A valid U.S. driver’s license
Proof of vehicle insurance
Proof of residency
A profile photo

After you sign up, Uber will review your criminal history and driving record. The process can take a few days or more, so make sure you submit all of your documents as soon as possible.

Once you get approved, simply launch the app, set your status to “active,” and start accepting ride requests.

Lyft Driver Requirements and Application Process

Lyft has similar driver requirements. However, you must be 25 or older to be a Lyft driver. You’ll have to provide the same documents, including your insurance, registration, driver’s license, and a profile photo. Lyft requires you to consent to a background check as well.

Like Uber, Lyft takes a few days to review your application and approve eligible drivers. Once you’ve been approved, log in to the Lyft mobile app and start earning. The process is pretty simple, which means you can start earning cash in a matter of days.

Charleston-Specific Regulations

Charleston has become quite the tourist hotspot, which also fuels the demand for Lyft and Uber drivers. Upper King Street is one of the most popular areas of the city. In fact, it was so flooded with rideshare requests that the city actually had to create special rules.

City officials created five pick-up/drop-off zones on and around King St. These zones are active on Lyft and Uber apps seven nights per week between the hours of 6 p.m. and 3 a.m. Vehicles stopping outside of these zones could receive a ticket.

If you pick up or drop off passengers at the Charleston International Airport, you’ll need to use a designated staging lot and follow all signs. Don’t use the standard customer lanes. Make sure to keep these rules in mind, as you’ll likely receive a lot of trip requests to and from these popular locations.

Key Considerations for Rideshare Drivers

There are a few factors to consider before becoming a rideshare driver, including:

Insurance costs: You must maintain personal auto insurance, but both companies provide liability coverage when you are working
Vehicle maintenance: Keep your car in good working order so you can avoid breakdowns while transporting passengers
Peak hours: Research demand in Charleston so you can maximize your earning potential
Taxes: As an independent contractor, you must report your earnings and set aside money to pay taxes.

If you get approved to be a rideshare driver, realize that you are taking on additional liability. Getting into an Uber accident can be a huge deal, which is why you need to take extra precautions to drive safely and follow all traffic laws.

How To Become an Uber or Lyft Driver

Driving for Uber or Lyft can be a great way to make some extra cash, and signing up is easy. Just make sure you meet the vehicle and driver requirements. Getting to know these requirements will help you navigate the process with confidence and start earning money.

If you need help or have been in an accident, reach out to Ty Robinson Law Firm for a free consultation.

Contact Our Charleston Car Accident At Ty Robinson Personal Injury & Car Accident Law Firm Today

If you were injured in an accident in Charleston, South Carolina, and need legal help, contact our Charleston car accident lawyer at Ty Robinson Personal Injury & Car Accident Law Firm to schedule a free case review today.

Ty Robinson Personal Injury & Car Accident Law Firm
28 Broad St Suite 204-2
Charleston, SC 29401
(843) 278-2222