One of the facts of life in the US military is that enlisted members regularly move around the country and the world for training, deployments, and other obligations. Driving for Uber is a flexible job that is appealing for military member because it could potentially allow them to work only a few days a month, on their own schedule.
But military members run into a problem during the Uber application process: There are several Uber driver and vehicle requirements that are challenging for military members to meet. Uber requires drivers to have a valid in-state drivers license and in-state auto insurance, which isn’t possible for military members who move regularly.
Will Uber make exceptions for military members? The short answer is no. Uber does not make any exceptions on the requirements for in-state documents, even for military members.
Does the US military allow active members to drive for Uber?
Generally yes, but you should ask your commanding officer before you apply to see if there are any restrictions or special paperwork that you need to be aware of. Based on my research, military members are not prohibited from driving for Uber unless currently enrolled in Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC).
Uber driver requirements that are hard to meet if you’re in the military
The Uber driver requirements state that:
- Drivers must have an in-state driver’s license. Certain border cities are exempt
- Drivers must have in-state auto insurance
- Read the full list of Uber driver requirements and vehicle requirements
Going through the paperwork and financial expense of getting a new driver’s license and new auto insurance isn’t feasible or even possible for military members who regularly move around the country, so it’s very likely that as a military member on the move you don’t qualify for Uber.
Military members are used to certain perks and benefits of being enlisted, so it’s understandable that members wonder whether Uber will give them some leeway as long as they have a valid license, insurance, and a good driving record in another state.
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Uber does NOT make exceptions on document requirements if you’re in the military
Uber will not make exceptions on the in-state licensing and insurance requirements. I asked Uber about this issue and got a reply. Here’s what they said, in full:
My question: “Drivers need in-state license and in-state insurance in most states. Does Uber make an exception for US military members?”
Uber’s answer: “Unfortunately, these documents are needed even if you are a military member. However, those who are military veterans or active duty (or their spouses) are able to toggle a feature that shows their riders their military affiliation.“
Does Lyft allow out-of-state documents for military members?
Lyft may allow some exceptions for military members, depending on the state you’re in. On the driver requirements page for California, they state, “Active duty military applicants and their dependents can have an out-of-state driver’s license and vehicle documents. Visit your local Lyft Hub and a Lyft representative will help set up your driver account.”
Contact Lyft to see if they allow military members to use out-of-state documents.
Other on-demand app jobs while you’re in the military
If you’re in the military and you can’t meet Uber’s in-state requirements, there are other similar on-demand jobs involving your car that you may be able to do.
- DoorDash – A food delivery app that doesn’t require an in-state driver’s license
- Amazon Flex – Deliver packages for Amazon
Even though Uber and Lyft don’t make exceptions for military members, there are other on-demand job opportunities you should look into.
Fred says
This whole issue is moot. Here at Fort Benning, Uber drivers get visitor passes under false pretexts to work post even though they are forbidden to operate here. They rob post military Uber drivers by flagging fairs just like taxis, even though the ride share insurance does not cover them for these off-app trips.
ChrisP says
It’d be easier if UBER just updated their policy to allow waviers. Just produce a set of orders like all the other businesses. We need a veteran on that board!
Eric Tiffany says
Im a US Navy veteran and i think uber and lift should offer a program to help veterans get started with driving careers.
Bob Paulino says
Actually states authorize military members to operate vehicles with licenses from thier state of domicile. Same with registration. It’s actually protected under service members civil relief act.
DougH says
That is true. But from my research, Uber doesn’t extend those same exceptions to drivers.
Raphael Neal says
So UBER refuses to follow the ACT? Interesting, UBER being an American based company and all.
Bill Tobey says
Doug- I’m willing to bet that the State of California already requires Uber & Lyft drivers to have in state licenses & insurance like taxi drivers.
It would be very simple for the state to pass a law allowing military personnel to drive in California without in state license or insurance.
DougH says
That’s an interesting point. So far, I haven’t heard of any cities or states passing special exemptions for military members. But it’s certainly possible.