Becoming an Uber driver in South Africa is a great way to be your own boss, earn a flexible income, and work on your schedule. Whether you own a vehicle or not, you may still be eligible to drive with Uber.
This guide provides all the details you need to know, from Uber driver requirements to vehicle eligibility and the sign-up process.
Uber Driver Requirements in South Africa
Before you can start driving, you must meet certain Uber driver requirements to ensure safety and quality service for riders.
1.1. Age and License Requirements
To qualify as an Uber driver in South Africa, you must:
- Be at least 21 years old
- Have a valid South African PrDP (Professional Driving Permit)
- Have at least one year of driving experience
1.2. Background Screening
Uber requires all drivers to undergo a safety screening, which can be completed at most Post Net, Jetline Stores, or Huru/MIE partners. The screening involves:
- A criminal background check
- A driving history check to ensure no serious violations
1.3. Required Documents
To meet Uber driver requirements, you must upload the following documents:
- A valid South African ID or Passport (for foreign nationals with a valid work permit)
- A Professional Driving Permit (PrDP)
- A driver profile photo (clear, no sunglasses, and facing forward)
- A Safety Screening Certificate
- A Driving Evaluation Certificate (required in Johannesburg, Pretoria, Durban, and Cape Town)
How to Sign Up and Start Driving
Step 1: Sign Up Online
To begin, visit the Uber website and complete the online registration by providing basic details such as your email, phone number, and city.
Sign up here: Uber South Africa
Step 2: Complete Your Safety Screening
- You can complete your HURU Safety Screening by uploading both pages of the document.
- For MIE Safety Screening, only one page is required.
- In Johannesburg, Pretoria, Durban, and Cape Town, you will need to complete a Driving Evaluation at an official Uber-approved center.
Step 3: Upload Your Documents
Once your screening is done, upload the necessary documents via the Uber platform.
Step 4: Get a Vehicle
To meet Uber driver requirements, your vehicle must:
- Be a 4-door sedan, hatchback, SUV, or minivan
- Be 3 years old or newer (in 2024, the oldest eligible vehicles are from 2021)
- Have ABS, driver and passenger airbags
- Be in good condition with no cosmetic damage
- Pass a vehicle inspection at a DEKRA center
If you do not own a vehicle, Uber offers:
- Car rental options through Uber-approved partners
- Vehicle financing solutions for those who qualify
Vehicle solutions: Learn more
Step 5: Activate Your Account & Start Driving
Once all Uber driver requirements have been met, Uber will activate your account, and you can start accepting trips.
Uber Vehicle Requirements in South Africa
3.1. General Vehicle Requirements
Regardless of the category, your vehicle must:
- Be 3 years old or newer (from 2021 onwards in 2024)
- Have four doors (hatchbacks allowed on Uber Go)
- Have working windows and air conditioning
- Be free of taxi markings and not salvaged or rebuilt
3.2. Uber Vehicle Categories and Eligibility
Uber Go (Budget-Friendly Hatchbacks)
Accepted Vehicles:
- 5-door hatchbacks (2021 model or newer)
- Examples: Toyota Vitz, Hyundai Grand i10, Suzuki Swift, Kia Picanto, Nissan Magnite, Renault Kwid
UberX (Standard Sedans)
Accepted Vehicles:
- 4-door sedans (2021 model or newer)
- Examples: Toyota Corolla Quest, Volkswagen Jetta, Hyundai Elantra, Honda Amaze, Nissan Almera
Uber Comfort (Premium Experience)
Accepted Vehicles:
- Higher-quality sedans or SUVs (2020 model or newer)
- Must have extra legroom and premium comfort
- Examples: BMW X1, Toyota Corolla Cross, Volkswagen Polo Sedan, Kia Sportage, Hyundai Tucson
UberXL (Larger Vehicles for Groups)
Accepted Vehicles:
- 4-door minivans (2021 model or newer)
- Must seat at least 6 passengers
- Examples: Toyota Rumion, Suzuki Ertiga, Renault Triber, Mitsubishi Xpander
Uber Black (Luxury Sedans & SUVs)
Accepted Vehicles:
- Mid-tier luxury sedans and SUVs (2021 model or newer)
- Must have leather or vinyl interior
- Only BMW, Mercedes Benz, Audi, Lexus, Volvo, Jaguar, Land Rover models are accepted
Uber Van (Premium Minivans)
Accepted Vehicles:
- 4-door premium minivans (2021 model or newer)
- Must seat at least 7 passengers
- Examples: Mercedes Benz V-Class, Hyundai Staria, Kia Carnival, Volkswagen Kombi
View full list of eligible vehicles here: Uber SA Vehicle List
How Much Can You Earn as an Uber Driver?
Your earnings depend on factors like:
- Location – More demand means higher earnings
- Peak Hours – Driving during weekends, holidays, and rush hours increases fares
- Incentives & Promotions – Uber offers extra earnings for completing certain ride targets
Estimated Monthly Earnings
- Part-time Uber Drivers: R6,000 – R12,000 per month
- Full-time Uber Drivers: R15,000 – R25,000 per month
Uber charges a 20-25% commission on each fare, so plan accordingly.
Related: Side Hustles That Can Boost Your Income as a Student
Tips for Success as an Uber Driver
- Drive During Peak Hours – More rides mean more money
- Provide Excellent Service – A high rating means better trip opportunities
- Keep Your Car in Good Condition – Riders prefer clean, well-maintained vehicles
- Stay Safe – Always verify passenger details before starting a trip
Final Thoughts
Becoming an Uber driver in South Africa is a great way to earn money on your own schedule. By meeting the Uber driver requirements, uploading the necessary documents, and ensuring your vehicle meets Uber’s standards, you can start driving and earning in no time.
Ready to become an Uber driver? Sign up now!
