Become an Uber Driver in Kenya: A Practical Guide

Introduction

Kenya’s ride-hailing scene includes Uber in several urban centers, offering a flexible way to earn with your own vehicle. This guide explains what you typically need to start, how the signup process works, what drivers can expect in terms of earnings and costs, and practical safety tips.

What you need to start

Age and license

You should hold a valid driver’s license and be eligible to drive a vehicle for hire. In practice, many programs expect drivers to be at least of working age and able to pass basic checks.

Vehicle requirements

Vehicles must be well maintained and meet Uber’s eligibility criteria. This usually includes a clean inspection, up-to-date registration, and valid insurance. Location-specific details can vary, so check Uber Kenya’s official guidelines for your city.

Documentation

Prepare documents such as a government ID, a valid driver’s license, vehicle registration papers, proof of insurance, and a recent photo for your driver profile. You’ll also need to provide bank or mobile money details for earnings deposits.

Background checks and safety

Uber commonly conducts background and driving history checks as part of onboarding. A clean record helps with faster approval and repeat rider trust.

Insurance

Adequate motor vehicle insurance is typically required. Some markets also reserve ride-hailing specific coverage during trips. Confirm your policy details with your insurer and with Uber’s requirements.

Steps to sign up with Uber

1. Create an Uber Driver account in the app or on the driver portal.
2. Upload the required documents (ID, license, vehicle papers, and photos).
3. Complete any vehicle inspection or eligibility checks as prompted.
4. Wait for approval from Uber and then enable driver mode in the app.
5. Add a payout method and you’re ready to start driving.

Earnings and costs

Earnings depend on hours worked, location, rider demand, and surge pricing. Common costs include fuel, maintenance, insurance, and depreciation of the vehicle. Tracking trips and rider tips can help with budgeting. Taxes are a personal obligation; consider speaking with a tax adviser if needed.

Safety and best practices

• Prioritize rider safety: wear your seatbelt, verify destinations, and drive defensively.
• Maintain a clean, well-serviced vehicle and present yourself professionally.
• Use in-app safety features (trip sharing, emergency button) and follow platform guidelines for handling difficult situations.
• Respect local traffic laws and ride-hailing etiquette to protect yourself and riders.

Next steps

If you’re in a city where Uber operates in Kenya, start by checking the official Uber Kenya driver onboarding pages for the most current requirements. Gather the necessary documents, complete the signup steps, and prepare your vehicle for a smooth onboarding experience.