Driving passengers and delivering packages as a courier through Uber is a great way to make some extra cash. When you’re applying as a driver, you’ll quickly come across a mandatory background check. This process is essential because Uber needs to make sure you meet their safety standards.
While you’re going through this process, you might feel like the check is slow and confusing. Learning about the Uber background check time can help you manage your expectations and figure out what delays can occur and how you can deal with them. This guide will go through everything you need to know.
Uber Background Check Time: How Much Time Does It Take?
In most cases, an Uber background check takes about 3 to 5 business days. This is usually enough time for Uber to verify your information and review your records. Most applicants are approved quickly as long as their documents are accurate and easy to confirm.
Why Your Uber Background Check Might Take Longer
Sometimes, you might have to wait a bit longer while your background check is in progress. There are various reasons why this might happen. For example, if you’ve provided incomplete or incorrect information, such as a misspelled name or an outdated address, the system will take longer to verify the details manually. The same goes for people who move around a lot. Checking records in different counties or states can take quite a bit of time.
On the company side, your background check might be delayed because there is information pending from a court that has slow record processing. You’ll come across this issue mainly around the holidays when it’s a particularly busy season or when there are staffing shortages in such fields. Local government processes can also slow things down.
Lastly, keep in mind that some cities or states have much stricter rules for ride-share drivers. In those places, Uber will need extra verification from the local authorities. While that may increase your wait time, it’ll guarantee that once you actually start work, you’ll be clear of all potential challenges that might arise with a rushed background check.
Uber Background Check Time: What You Can Do While Waiting for the Results
Unfortunately, there isn’t any way for you to directly speed up the screening process. However, there are a few options you can explore to tie up any loose ends.
- Always keep an eye on your inbox and Uber account. The company will notify you promptly if they’re in need of any additional information. Responding quickly improves your chances of clearing the background check fast.
- Make sure all your documents are clear and valid. Double-check your driver’s license, insurance, vehicle registration, and your name and address in the application.
- Contact Uber support if your check is stuck for more than 10 business days. You can report the issue in the Uber Help Center by logging into your account. They might be able to expand on why your investigation is being delayed and how you can help.
- Conduct a reverse look-up search on yourself. Information.com is a highly recommended method that you can use to conduct your own background check and get important details on yourself within minutes. This can help you track how your profile might appear to Uber.
- If you find any inaccurate or outdated information during your self-background check, reach out to the relevant parties and get those mistakes corrected as soon as possible.
- Don’t submit duplicate applications. You might think that reapplying would quicken things, but the confusion of two applications can often slow things down even more.
Safety is Always a Priority
Guaranteeing the safety of all parties involved with Uber is an essential step, but it can often take time. Unexpected instances can occur which might delay your background check from the standard 3 to 5 day time frame. It’s important for you to stay calm and follow through with the steps we’ve outlined in this article.
Once you’ve filed all the relevant and your background check clears, you can start driving and earning right away. Just remember that it’s normal for delays to occur, and it’s not necessarily a sign of any problem.