Become an Uber Driver in London (2025)

Start your journey as an Uber driver in London with our complete guide. We'll help you navigate the requirements, get your PCO license, and find the perfect vehicle.

Uber Driver

Why Become an Uber Driver in London?

Becoming an Uber driver in London offers flexibility, competitive earnings, and the opportunity to be your own boss. With London’s vast transportation needs, ride-sharing services continue to be in high demand throughout the city.

Whether you’re looking for a full-time career or a way to supplement your income, driving for Uber allows you to create your own schedule and work on your own terms. With the right approach, drivers can earn competitive rates while enjoying the freedom that comes with self-employment.

Key Benefits:

Flexible Hours

Work when it suits you, whether that’s full-time, part-time, or just weekends

Competitive Earnings

Potential to earn £600–£1,000+ per week driving full-time in London

Be Your Own Boss

Enjoy the freedom of self-employment without the typical startup costs

How to Become an Uber Driver in 5 Simple Steps

1

Obtain PCO License

Apply for your Private Hire Vehicle (PHV) driver's license through Transport for London.

2

Create Uber Driver Account

Sign up through Uber's official website or app and provide necessary documentation.

3

Vehicle Requirements

Ensure your vehicle meets all Uber's requirements or rent a PCO-approved vehicle.

4

Background Check

Pass Uber's background check and vehicle inspection process.

5

Activate Account

Once approved, activate your account and start accepting ride requests.

Uber Driver Earnings

In London, an Uber driver's weekly wage might be anything from £950 to £1350, depending on the number of hours per week they work. A separate survey found that drivers in Manchester can earn around £39,600 per year, compared to those in Birmingham, which can earn £36,400 per year.

London is where an Uber car rental driver can expect to make the most money because of the high demand for Uber rides, which results in higher rates and potential earnings. On the other hand, Uber drivers can find steady work in cities like Birmingham, Manchester, and Bristol, especially during peak travel hours and when major events occur in those areas.

£

London

£950-£1350

Weekly earnings

£

Manchester

£39,600

Annual earnings

£

Birmingham

£36,400

Annual earnings

How Long Does It Take To Become An Uber Driver UK

1

Application & Document Submission

Create an account on the Uber driver app and submit your required documents.

Time: 1-2 days

2

Background Check

Uber conducts a background check to review your driving history and criminal record.

Time: 3-5 days

3

PCO License Application

Apply for your Private Hire Vehicle (PHV) license through Transport for London.

Time: 3-4 weeks

4

Vehicle Inspection & Approval

Get your vehicle inspected or arrange PCO car hire for an already approved vehicle.

Time: 1-7 days (depending on whether you're using your own car or hiring)

Total estimated time: 4-6 weeks

The PCO license application is typically the longest part of the process

PCO Cars Available for Uber Drivers

Choose from our wide range of PCO-licensed vehicles, all approved for Uber with comprehensive insurance included.

Kia E-Niro

£250
£220 /week
(includes insurance)
Kia E-Niro - PCO car hire rent
5 Passengers5 Passengers
AutomaticAutomatic
Full Electric
282 miles
vector

Kia Xceed

£250
£220 /week
(includes insurance)
Kia Xceed - PCO car to rent
5 Passengers5 Passengers
AutomaticAutomatic
plugin-hybridPlugin-Hybrid
30 miles
vector

BMW 5 Series

£330/week
BMW 5 Series - PCO car hire
5 Passengers5 Passengers
AutomaticAutomatic
plugin-hybridPlugin-Hybrid
80 miles
vector

Kia Niro

£250/week
Kia Niro - PCO car hire London
5 Passengers5 Passengers
AutomaticAutomatic
plugin-hybridPlugin-Hybrid
30 miles

Toyota Prius plus

£250
£220 /week
(includes insurance)
Toyota Prius plus - PCO car hire rent
5 Passengers5 Passengers
AutomaticAutomatic
plugin-hybridHybrid
5 Doors
vector

BMW i4

£350/week
BMW i4 - PCO car hire rent
5 Passengers5 Passengers
AutomaticAutomatic
Full Electric
320 miles
vector

Toyota Prius Plug-in

£240/week
Toyota Prius Plug-in - PCO car hire London
5 Passengers5 Passengers
AutomaticAutomatic
plugin-hybridPlugin-Hybrid
30 miles

VW ID 3

£250
£200 /week
(includes insurance)
VW ID 3 - PCO rental London
5 Passengers5 Passengers
AutomaticAutomatic
Full Electric
250 miles
vector

MG 4

£250/week
MG 4 - PCO car for rent
5 Passengers5 Passengers
AutomaticAutomatic
Full Electric
280 miles

Maxus Mifa 9

£350/week
Maxus Mifa 9 - PCO car hire uk
8 Passengers8 Passengers
AutomaticAutomatic
Full Electric
null miles

Kia Niro 2 EV

£280/week
Kia Niro 2 EV - PCO car to hire
5 Passengers5 Passengers
AutomaticAutomatic
Full Electric
282 miles

BYD SEAL

£280/week
BYD SEAL - PCO car hire
5 Passengers5 Passengers
AutomaticAutomatic
Full Electric
323 miles

Kia EV 3

£290/week
Kia EV 3 - PCO rental
5 Passengers5 Passengers
AutomaticAutomatic
Full Electric
375 miles
vector

Kia EV9

£350/week
Kia EV9 - PCO car hire uk
7 Passengers7 Passengers
AutomaticAutomatic
Full Electric
null miles
vector

Nissan Leaf

£190/week
Nissan Leaf - PCO rental
5 Passengers5 Passengers
AutomaticAutomatic
Full Electric
230 miles

Tesla Model 3

£300/week
Tesla Model 3 - PCO rental
5 Passengers5 Passengers
AutomaticAutomatic
Full Electric
320 miles

Audi A6

£330/week
Audi A6
5 Passengers5 Passengers
AutomaticAutomatic
plugin-hybridPlugin-Hybrid
30 miles
vector

Kia Niro Plugin Hybrid

£270/week
Kia Niro Plugin Hybrid - PCO car for rent
5 Passengers5 Passengers
AutomaticAutomatic
plugin-hybridPlugin-Hybrid
30 miles

Ford Mustang

£350/week
Ford Mustang - PCO car for rent
5 Passengers5 Passengers
AutomaticAutomatic
Full Electric
280 miles

Toyota Prius

£200/week
Toyota Prius - PCO rental
5 Passengers5 Passengers
AutomaticAutomatic
plugin-hybridHybrid
5 Doors

Toyota CH-R

£230/week
Toyota CH-R - PCO registered cars for hire
5 Passengers5 Passengers
AutomaticAutomatic
plugin-hybridHybrid
5 Doors

VW Sharan

£280/week
VW Sharan - PCO rental London
7 Passengers7 Passengers
AutomaticAutomatic
plugin-hybridDiesel
5 Doors

Mercedes-Benz E Class

£380/week
Mercedes-Benz E Class - PCO rental London
5 Passengers5 Passengers
AutomaticAutomatic
plugin-hybridDiesel
5 Doors
vector

Toyota Corolla Estate

£250/week
Toyota Corolla Estate - PCO car to hire
5 Passengers5 Passengers
AutomaticAutomatic
plugin-hybridHybrid
5 Doors

Toyota Corolla

£230/week
Toyota Corolla - PCO car for rent
5 Passengers5 Passengers
AutomaticAutomatic
plugin-hybridHybrid
5 Doors

Suzuki Swace Estate

£250/week
Suzuki Swace Estate - PCO car hire London
5 Passengers5 Passengers
AutomaticAutomatic
plugin-hybridHybrid
5 Doors

BMW 7 Series

£450/week
BMW 7 Series - PCO rental London
5 Passengers5 Passengers
AutomaticAutomatic
plugin-hybridPlugin-Hybrid
34 miles
vector

MG 5

£230/week
MG 5 - PCO rental
5 Passengers5 Passengers
AutomaticAutomatic
Full Electric
220 miles

Lexus i300h

£250/week
Lexus i300h - PCO rental
5 Passengers5 Passengers
AutomaticAutomatic
plugin-hybridHybrid
5 Doors

How To Become An Uber Eats Driver UK

Becoming an Uber Eats driver offers a flexible alternative for those who prefer food delivery to passenger transportation. The process is similar to becoming an Uber driver but with some key differences:

1

Lower Entry Requirements

You only need to be 18+ (vs. 21+ for Uber drivers) and the vehicle requirements are less strict.

2

Vehicle Options

In some areas, you can deliver via car, bike, scooter, or even on foot depending on the location.

3

Simplified Process

The application process is typically faster as it doesn't require a PCO license in most cases.

Quick Start

Our PCO vehicles are also suitable for Uber Eats delivery. Contact us to find out about special rates for food delivery drivers.

Tips for Success as an Uber Driver

Learn the Busy Areas

Familiarize yourself with high-demand areas and events in your city to maximize earnings.

Maintain a High Rating

Keep your car clean, drive safely, and provide good customer service to maintain a high driver rating.

Use a Fuel-Efficient Vehicle

Choose a PCO vehicle with good fuel economy to reduce your operating costs.

Track Your Expenses

Keep detailed records of all your expenses for tax purposes and to understand your actual earnings.

Schedule Strategically

Work during peak hours like morning/evening commutes, weekends, and special events.

Take Advantage of Incentives

Stay informed about Uber promotions, surge pricing, and quest bonuses to boost your income.

PCO License Application Process

Online Application

Register on TfL website and complete the initial application

Document Submission

Submit required ID, right to work, and address documents

Background Check

DBS check and driving license verification

Topographical Assessment

Complete and pass the London topographical knowledge test

License Issued

Receive your PCO license (usually valid for 3 years)

The entire process typically takes 4-6 weeks, depending on background check processing times

Common Challenges and Solutions

While working as an Uber driver offers many benefits, it also comes with its own set of challenges. Here are some common issues drivers face and practical solutions to overcome them:

What Our Drivers Say

Getting my PCO license and starting with Uber was one of the best decisions I've made. The flexibility lets me work around my other commitments, and G&M Direct Hire made the process of getting a suitable car completely hassle-free.

Michael R.

Uber Driver since 2019

As a woman driver, I was concerned about safety, but the Uber platform gives me peace of mind. The car I hired through G&M is reliable and perfect for city driving. I'm earning good money working just evenings and weekends.

Sarah T.

Part-time Uber Driver

After losing my job during the pandemic, I turned to Uber driving full-time. The support from G&M Direct Hire was excellent - they explained everything clearly and helped me choose the right vehicle. Now I'm earning more than I did before!

Jamal K.

Full-time Uber Driver

Ready to Start Your Uber Driver Journey?

Get on the road quickly with our PCO car hire options. We provide fully licensed vehicles that meet all Uber requirements, allowing you to start earning immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Articles