Vehicle checks for Uber drivers: 2024 UK Guide
Uber driver vehicle assessments, conducted by a certified mechanic, cover the exterior, interior, and mechanical components to ensure ride-hailing vehicles are safe and suitable for passenger transport.
Uber drivers must have a 19-point vehicle inspection done at least once a year to ensure vehicles are in good working condition.
We’ll cover everything there is to know about vehicle checks for Uber drivers, as well as extra requirements you’ll need before picking up your first passenger.
Uber’s mandatory vehicle inspection checks
Uber’s vehicle inspections cover a wide range of checks from headlights to fluid levels – and everything in between. A certified mechanic uses a 19-point inspection form to ensure all bases are covered, whether it’s an initial inspection for new drivers or an annual follow-up for existing drivers.
These safety checks evaluate the car’s overall condition across three main areas:
1. Exterior
External checks include:
- Headlights
- Tail lights
- Indicators (turn signals)
- Emergency/brake lights
- Windshield wipers
- Tyres (including tyre tread)
- Body condition (doors, windows, bumpers, etc.)
- Licence plates
2. Interior
Internal checks include:
- Seat belts
- Door locks
- Hooter
- Dashboard warning lights
- Speedometer
- Mirrors
- Front seat adjustments
- Heating/cooling systems
- Overall cleanliness (upholstery, odour, etc.)
3. Mechanics
Mechanical checks include:
- Brake pads
- Steering wheel
- Exhaust system
- Suspension
- Wheel bearings
- Fluid levels (coolants, brake fluid, oil checks, etc.)
Note: Uber-approved third-party inspectors must conduct vehicle inspections to ensure they are roadworthy, safe, and reliable for passenger transport.
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Get QuotesHow does the vehicle inspection process work for Uber drivers?
Here’s how Uber vehicle inspections work:
Download an inspection form
Most inspection centres have these forms, but it’s best to take a spare one with you. You can download these forms from the Uber website.
Book your inspection
Uber drivers can get their vehicles inspected at various locations across the UK, including Uber Greenlight Hubs (i.e. Uber support facilities) and independent approved centres.
Upload the completed form
Once you’ve passed the vehicle inspection checks, you must upload the form (and proof of payment) to your Uber account.
What requirements do you need to be an Uber driver in the UK?
There are several requirements taxi drivers need before they can work for Uber.
Let’s take a closer look at Uber’s vehicle requirements and insurance must-haves:
Vehicle must-haves
Standard UberX vehicle requirements include:
- PHVL licence from an accepted council in the UK (see Uber’s website for more information)
- Model year in line with local licensing authority requirements
- 4-door car or minivan
- Good condition with no cosmetic damage
- No commercial branding
- All vehicles must be licensed to carry a minimum of four passengers
- Zero emission capable (ZEC) compliant – London
- Euro 6 Standard compliant – London
Driver must-haves
- 21+ years old
- Can speak English
- Can legally live and work in the UK
- A bank account in your own name/business name
- Pass “The Knowledge” test – applicable to London cabbies
- Pass criminal background checks (i.e. DBS checks)
Bonus read: How To Become An Uber Driver In The UK
Licence must-haves
- Valid EU/UK driving licence, with at least one year of driving experience
- Valid private hire operators licence – also called a PCO licence
Insurance must-haves
All UK motorists need the appropriate car insurance, with at least third-party-only (TPO) cover, to legally drive on the road. Since Uber driving is a type of private hire or hire-and-reward driving, you’ll need the right policy to remain compliant with the law.
To avoid confusion, taxi insurance for private hire work goes by several names:
- PCO insurance
- Uber taxi insurance
- Minicab insurance
- Rideshare insurance
- Private hire taxi insurance
- Hire and reward insurance
Bonus read: What Insurance Do I Need For Uber?
Final thoughts
Uber vehicles must undergo an annual inspection to comply with Uber vehicle regulations. These safety assessments cover external, internal, and mechanical checks, ensuring vehicles are reliable for passenger transport.
However, passing vehicle inspections is just one piece of the Uber driver puzzle. An Uber driver needs to be 21+ years old, have a valid UK and PCO licence, and have the right taxi insurance in place before they can transport passengers.
Speak with the SimplyQuote team today – the UK’s #1 insurance comparison site for Uber drivers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, Uber drivers must have annual vehicle inspections to remain compliant.
No, Uber does not cover vehicle inspection costs. This is at the expense of the driver.
Vehicle inspection costs range between £100 and £250, depending on the size of your vehicle.
Standard vehicle inspections take around 30 minutes.
A vehicle inspection is important for all taxi and private hire drivers, regardless of whether they work for Uber.
Regular services and inspections ensure your vehicle is in tip-top condition, safe, and reliable for transporting passengers, and addresses any minor issues before they become major problems.