Uber driver & car requirements in Canberra, ACT

If you ever wondered how to become an Uber driver in Canberra, we have the answers. Below are the driver requirements that you need to meet. If you need any help with your application, Splend is here for you.

Uber driver requirements in Canberra, ACT

To become an Uber driver in Canberra, you have to meet the following requirements:

1. Be at least 20 years old

If you're under 20 years old, you can't become a driving partner for Uber, no matter how long your driving experience is or if you meet all the other criteria.

2. Have a full ACT driver's licence with D condition

You must have a full AU driver’s licence to become an Uber driver in Canberra. If it’s not an ACT licence, you’ll need to convert it before signing up. Learn more about Uber licence requirements in Canberra

3. Uber application documents

To become an Uber driver in Canberra, you must be 21 years or older, have a smartphone that’s compatible with the Uber Driver app (iPhone 4s or newer, or any Android device released since 2013), and get the following paperwork ready:

  • Working With Vulnerable People Registration: You'll need to apply for WWVP registration through Access Canberra to drive Uber in ACT. Follow these steps:

    Access Canberra will assess your application and post the WWVP card to you. Processing this application usually takes 4-6 weeks. Once you have the card, you can upload it load this to your Uber account, and you'll also have it on you while out driving. The application costs around $72, and you'll need to reapply every 5 years.

  • Medical assessment: The next step is to book an appointment and complete a Commercial Driver’s Health Assessment form at your local GP.  This should cost between $50-150 depending on your GP, and will be valid for 5 years.

  • Public Vehicle Driver Licence: To drive for Uber in ACT, you need to apply for a Public Vehicle Driver Licence.

To do so, you'll need to attach the following documents: the medical assessment (no older than six months), a copy of your Australian or Overseas Passport/ImmiCard/Australian Birth Certificate/Australian Citizenship Certificate and the Working with Vulnerable People card. The application costs $50 and is usually processed within 10 business day.

Uber car requirements in Canberra, ACT

The most important thing you need to drive for Uber is an eligible car. All Uber cars in Canberra must meet the following requirements:

  • ANCAP 5-star rated

  • Excellent working condition

  • No cosmetic damage

  • No commercial branding

  • No more than 8 seats, including the driver's seat

  • Registered and CTP-insured in the ACT

  • Accredited for rideshare by Access Canberra

  • Have working windows and air conditioning

  • Able to pass a vehicle inspection

  • Are not taxis, ex-taxis, government, ex-driving school, branded or rebuilt vehicles.

Uber car types

For each Uber service there are specific requirements your car has to meet.

Uber typeModel yearVehicle typeSeatingOther requirements
UberX15 years old or less4-door4-7 passengersANCAP 5-star rated, In excellent working condition, with no cosmetic damage, Have working windows and air conditioning
UberXL15 years old or less4-door SUV or large passenger vans6-7 passengers
Uber Comfort7 years old or lessMid sized vehicle4 passengers Extra legroom for passengers, Minimum 500 trips completed, Driver rating of 4.85 or above. Effective 9 November 2024: The vehicle must be on the list of eligible vehicle models
Uber Premier7 years old or less4-door high-end vehicles4 passengers Extra legroom for passengers, Minimum 20 trips completed, Driver rating of 4.6 or above. Effective 9 November 2024: The vehicle must be on the list of eligible vehicle models
Uber Comfort ElectricManufactured within last 7 yearsSpecific Electric Makes and Models only4 passengersMeet all other UberX vehicle requirements, 4.85 minimum rating, Have completed over 100 trips
Uber Max15 years old or lessRear sliding doors and at least 3 rows of seatingComfortably seat at least 7 passengers (plus driver)Plenty of luggage space without having to put the seats down
Uber GreenHybrid or Electric Vehicles Effective 9 November 2024 - Fully electric vehicles onlyMeet all other Uber X requirements

Check the list of eligible vehicles for each Uber type of service in Canberra.

Car insurance

All vehicles driving with Uber must be covered by compulsory third party (CTP) insurance, and have at least third-party property damage insurance. To drive with UberX, you also need to be listed on the car's property damage insurance policy, even if you are not the main policyholder.

Car inspection

Your car must have a valid ACT roadworthy certificate to be eligible for Uber. If you want to use your personal car for ridesharing, you'll need to book an appointment at a certified inspection centre and take it in for a check-up that will cost around $70.

Vehicle Rideshare Licence

The last step is applying for a Vehicle Rideshare Licence for your car. The application costs $100 and you must provide a valid ACT roadworthy certificate and a copy of your public Liability Insurance policy endorsed for Rideshare.

How to drive for Uber if I don't have a car?

Most drivers turn down the idea of rideshare driving because their car doesn't meet the Uber requirements or don't have a car at all. That's where car subscription providers, like Splend, step in. It has become very popular for rideshare drivers to get on a car subscription plan rather than buying a car for Uber.

Looking for an to try a car for rideshare in Canberra? Our Uber car subscription plans are all-inclusive, flexible, no deposit or credit check required, with customer benefits, and ongoing support throughout your subscription. You can choose between Flexi Try and Flexi Own, depending on the flexibility you're looking for.

Check our available cars

How can Splend help me become an Uber driver?

Splend provides you with the complete service, including helping you with your Uber application process as well as ongoing training and support, ensuring you become a successful Uber driver.

Here’s how we can help you:

1. The keys to your career on the road

At Splend we can set you up with a new-model, 5-star ANCAP-rated car that also provides maximum comfort for you as well as your riders, making it easier for you to earn tips and maintain your five-star driver rating.

2. Car insurance

All Splend cars come with comprehensive car cover and rideshare insurance, so you're covered if you ever have an accident. We also provide 24/7 roadside assistance.

3. Car inspection

All Splend cars have been inspected by Uber, and ready for you to jump behind the wheel and start earning an income.

4. D-condition licence

Splend will process your application for you and cover the $50 fee, saving you time and effort.

5. Uber application and other paperwork

At Splend, your Customer Specialists will help you set up your business, and continue to be your point of contact whenever you have a question or need advice.

6. Customer benefits

Sign up to Splend's Flexi Try or Flexi Own car subscription plans and you’ll enjoy customer benefits beyond the wheel, such as additional income through our referral program, goodies for your car, access to our local Canberra Hub, and a range of exclusive community events where you can catch up with the latest ridesharing trends and learn new tips and tricks to be more efficient in your work.  

About Splend

Changing the way rideshare drivers own for good.

We support rideshare drivers with a new way to own – with lower purchase prices, better rates, lower servicing and insurance costs and ongoing driver support, all for one weekly payment, all in one place. It’s how car ownership for rideshare drivers should be. For more information about Splend, make an appointment and drop by to your local Splend Hub, email us, or say hello on 1800 775 363. Related posts: