FAQ - Driver Policies

Uber:

Uber allows service dogs to ride with their owners. Each driver-partner is allowed to decide whether or not to drive passengers with non-service dogs.

Lyft:

Lyft drivers allow service dogs to ride with passengers but are given latitude on whether to accept passengers with non-service dogs.

Uber and Lyft do not allow drivers to use their apps for pickups outside of their assigned states without switching home states. Drivers are limited to their home states because licensing, insurance, and other regulations vary from state to state.

Uber and Lyft conduct background checks on all applicants who want to drive using their apps. These background checks include reviews of driving records and criminal histories. Both companies also request occasional background checks on current drivers to ensure compliance with driver guidelines.

Uber and Lyft drivers do not incur fees from cancelling rides. However, driver cancellations of rides on both apps can lead to lower acceptance rates. Acceptance rates are used to evaluate driver performance with consistently low rates leading to restricted access to the apps.

The companies also reserve the right to terminate access to their apps if drivers repeatedly cancel rides based on destinations, projected fares, or discrimination against specific groups. Uber and Lyft prohibit driver discrimination of riders based on age, race, gender, sexual orientation, nationality, religion, or disability.

Drivers can complete rides for Uber and Lyft at the same time. There are no legal restrictions on drivers who use both apps based on the terms of service or privacy agreement. As self-employed contractors, drivers are also not bound by non-compete restrictions. Many drivers use Lyft and Uber along with delivery apps like Postmates and Grubhub.

The primary issue for a driver who uses Uber and Lyft is managing their time. Drivers can alternate between Lyft and Uber on their phones in search of their next rides. A driver can also use a dedicated mobile phone line for each app to keep their schedules full of rides. There are apps like Mystro that charge small monthly or per-ride fees to manage a driver’s use of both apps.

Uber:

Uber requires every driver-partner to maintain their own auto insurance that meets or exceeds state standards. The company provides coverage for third-party liability, uninsured motorist injury, and collision coverage after a $1,000 deductible paid by the driver.

Lyft:

Lyft requires each driver to acquire auto insurance meeting or exceeding their state’s auto insurance requirements. The company pays for contingent collision and comprehensive coverage with a $2,500 deductible paid by the driver.

Uber and Lyft are able to offer fares at competitive rates because their drivers typically own the vehicles. Drivers for both companies also pay for auto insurance, maintenance, and fuel. Uber and Lyft have begun offering rental services to drivers who want to carry passengers without owning their vehicles.

Uber and Lyft ask their drivers to pay tolls during rides in exchange for reimbursements after rider payments are processed. Each rider is charged for tolls when applicable to fund the reimbursement.

Drivers with Uber and Lyft cannot select destinations for their riders. Both companies offer destination modes that allow drivers to filter potential riders based on their final destinations.