5 temporary driving jobs to do as a side gig

Proactively searching for job openings, maintaining compliance with industry regulations, and adapting to market shifts increase access to the best opportunities.

Platforms like Uber, delivery networks, and traditional taxi firms continue to expand, providing diverse employment prospects. Staying up to date with industry changes ensures drivers remain competitive and ready for new openings.

In this guide, you’ll learn what best temporary jobs you can do while driving.

1. The Best PCO Car Options in London

PCO driving in London means working as a private hire driver with a fully licensed vehicle. Unlike traditional taxi services, PCO drivers do not pick up passengers from the street. Instead, they work through pre-booked apps like Uber, Bolt, and Free Now. This setup provides flexibility, making temporary driving jobs an attractive choice for those seeking extra income without long-term commitments.

While taxi drivers require a Hackney Carriage license to operate official black cabs, PCO drivers obtain a Private Hire Vehicle (PHV) license from Transport for London (TfL). One major difference: taxis can use bus lanes and take street hails, while PCO drivers must rely on app-based bookings. PCO drivers also lease approved cars that meet TfL's stringent emissions standards.

For those looking to rent a PCO vehicle, GM Direct Hire (gmdirecthire.co.uk) offers a range of options that comply with TfL’s environmental requirements. Two standout choices include:

Kia E-Niro PCO – A fully electric vehicle with a range of up to 282 miles on a single charge, reducing fuel costs while ensuring compliance with London’s ULEZ regulations.
Nissan Leaf PCO – A reliable and eco-friendly option, offering low operating costs with a range of up to 239 miles per charge

2. The Rise of Temporary Driving Jobs During the Holiday Season

Retail sales spike in the months leading up to major holidays, driving a sharp increase in package deliveries and freight movement. The National Retail Federation (NRF) reported that holiday retail sales reached £936.3 billion in 2022, a 5.3% increase from the previous year. With consumers making more online purchases, companies rely heavily on temporary drivers to manage the surge in shipments.

Courier services, ride-hailing platforms, and trucking companies expand operations during November and December, requiring more contract drivers.

In 2023, UPS alone hired over 100,000 seasonal employees, including delivery drivers and package handlers. FedEx and USPS implement similar hiring patterns to meet consumer demands.

Grocery delivery services also see heightened activity. Platforms like Instacart and Amazon Fresh often experience an uptick in orders, leading to increased demand for temporary drivers who can handle time-sensitive deliveries.

How Logistics Companies Scale Seasonal Employment

The logistics sector strategically adjusts operations each year to accommodate holiday-driven demand. Companies use several approaches to scale seasonal hiring:

Short-Term Contracts: Many trucking and courier services onboard drivers under fixed-term agreements, typically lasting from mid-October to early January.
Incentivized Hourly Rates: Some companies offer higher wages or bonus structures to attract temporary drivers willing to work peak hours.
Expedited Hiring Processes: Background checks, drug screenings, and application reviews are streamlined to bring drivers onboard faster.
Flexible Scheduling Options: Companies offer shifts that cater to different availability levels, making it easier for part-time workers or gig drivers to participate.

Fluctuating Demand After the Holiday Peak

Once the holiday shopping season ends, demand for temporary drivers drops. Companies downsize operations, reducing contract positions. However, some drivers transition into permanent roles if they demonstrate reliability and efficiency. FedEx and UPS often extend employment offers to high-performing seasonal workers.

For those interested in re-entering the temporary driving workforce in future peak seasons, maintaining a positive record with past employers and staying updated on hiring timelines enhances job prospects.

3. Exploring Private Hire Driving in the UK

Private hire driving in the UK relies on vehicles that meet strict licensing and comfort standards. The choice of vehicle impacts customer satisfaction, operating costs, and eligibility for platform-based work.

Saloon Cars: Models like the Toyota Prius and Ford Mondeo dominate this category due to their fuel efficiency and reliability.
Estate Cars: Drivers needing extra boot space for luggage often use vehicles such as the Skoda Superb Estate or Volkswagen Passat Estate.
MPVs and People Carriers: Vehicles such as the Ford Galaxy and Mercedes-Benz V-Class accommodate larger groups and high-volume passenger demand.
Electric and Hybrid Vehicles: Car hire platforms often prioritize hybrid and electric models like the Nissan Leaf and Tesla Model 3 to align with environmental goals and reduce fuel costs.
Luxury and Executive Vehicles: Premium services require high-end models such as the Mercedes E-Class, BMW 5 Series, or Audi A6 to meet corporate and VIP client expectations.

Local authority regulations dictate vehicle age limits and emission standards, particularly in cities enforcing clean air zones.

Driver Qualification Requirements

Private hire drivers in the UK must meet specific licensing and qualification standards to legally operate. Licensing requirements vary by local authority, but common criteria apply nationwide.

Private Hire Driver Licence (PHV Licence): Issued by local councils or Transport for London (TfL) for those operating in the capital.
Medical Examination: A certificate confirming a driver meets DVLA Group 2 medical standards.
Enhanced DBS Check: A Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) background check to ensure passenger safety, particularly for vulnerable riders.
English Language Proficiency: Some local authorities require language assessments to verify communication skills.
Knowledge Tests: Cities like London mandate topographical skills tests to assess route planning abilities.

In addition, vehicle licensing regulations require valid road tax, insurance specific to private hire use, and an MOT certificate for vehicles over three years old. Operators working through app-based platforms may also need additional induction sessions or approval steps before going live on the service.

4. Taxi Driving: Skills, Experience, and Job Opportunities

Taxi driving requires a combination of technical ability, local knowledge, and customer service skills. A deep understanding of road networks, traffic patterns, and shortcut routes ensures efficiency, while strong interpersonal skills create a positive experience for passengers. Handling cash or processing card payments, managing navigation apps, and dealing with unpredictable customers also come with the job.

Most taxi drivers rely on GPS guidance, but experience with traditional street knowledge, particularly in large cities like London, enhances earning potential. For example, London black cab drivers undergo The Knowledge, a process that demands memorizing thousands of routes, landmarks, and street names. Private hire and app-based drivers can operate with less rigorous geographical training, relying on navigation software instead.

Get More Expert Insights on Taxi Driving Careers

Communication skills also play a role. Drivers need to interact professionally with passengers, handle queries, and sometimes assist those with special needs. Multitasking becomes necessary, particularly in busy areas where drivers must monitor traffic, follow GPS instructions, and maintain situational awareness.

The Role of Prior Driving Experience

Previous driving experience significantly affects job prospects and contract terms. Companies assess a driver’s history for accident records, customer interactions, and familiarity with commercial driving conditions. Many employers or licensing authorities require a minimum number of years of driving experience before granting professional taxi licenses.

For instance, in the UK, obtaining a private hire license requires a clean driving record and at least a few years of driving history, depending on the local licensing authority. A driver with multiple years of experience in commercial transport—such as delivery or chauffeur services—may access more lucrative contracts and better working conditions.

Taxi driving remains a viable temporary driving job, particularly for individuals seeking short-term income with flexible hours. With the right skills and experience, drivers can quickly adapt to shifting demand patterns and maximize earning potential in competitive markets.

5. Become an Uber Driver

How to Get Started as an Uber Driver

Uber operates one of the largest ride-hailing platforms globally, offering flexible earning opportunities. In the UK, becoming a driver requires meeting specific criteria, obtaining licenses, and completing the application process. -** Meet the Minimum Requirements**: Drivers must be at least 21 years old, hold a valid UK driver’s license, and have at least three years of driving experience.

Obtain a Private Hire License: A Private Hire Vehicle (PHV) license from Transport for London (TfL) or the relevant local authority is mandatory. This includes medical checks, an enhanced DBS background check, and a topographical skills assessment.
Choose a Suitable Vehicle: Uber sets vehicle requirements based on location and service type. Most private hire vehicles must be under a certain age, meet emission standards, and be fully insured.
Sign Up and Submit Documents: The registration process on the Uber website requires uploading necessary documents, including the driver’s license, vehicle insurance, and PHV license.
Pass the Uber Onboarding Process: New drivers complete an online or in-person induction covering service requirements, platform usage, and safety protocols.

For a complete guide on becoming an Uber driver in London, visit this resource.

Pros and Cons of Driving for Uber

Temporary Uber driving offers flexibility and accessibility, but it also comes with challenges. Here’s a breakdown of the advantages and drawbacks.

Pros

Flexible Working Hours: Drivers set their own schedules, making it suitable for those looking for temporary work or additional income.
Instant Earnings: Earnings are directly tied to completed trips, with the option to cash out earnings within a short time frame.
Low Entry Barriers: Compared to traditional taxi businesses, Uber provides an easier entry path with no need to build a customer base from scratch.
Increased Demand During Peak Times: Surge pricing during periods of high demand boosts income potential, particularly in busy urban areas.

Cons

Commission Fees: Uber takes a commission on each fare, typically ranging from 20% to 25%, impacting total earnings.
Vehicle Costs: Drivers are responsible for fuel, maintenance, insurance, and other vehicle-related expenses.
Inconsistent Income: Earnings fluctuate based on passenger demand, competition, and operational expenses.
Regulatory Compliance: Drivers must stay up to date with licensing renewals, insurance requirements, and local regulations.

Uber driving remains a viable option for temporary work, especially in high-demand locations. However, drivers must account for expenses, earnings variations, and competition within the ride-hailing market.

Making the Most of Temporary Driving Jobs

Temporary driving jobs offer flexibility, varied income opportunities, and an accessible entry point into the transport industry. From private hire and taxi work to delivery driving, short-term roles cater to different skill sets and preferences.

Pay rates vary depending on the job, location, and demand, with opportunities for both independent work and agency-based employment.

Drivers need to stay informed about insurance requirements, contractual obligations, and compliance with safety regulations.