Applying For Uber Airport: A Comprehensive Guide

Uber is a great way to be your own boss and earn money on your own schedule. If you're interested in becoming an Uber driver, there are a few minimum requirements to meet before you can sign up. These include meeting the minimum age to drive in your state, having at least one year of licensed driving experience in the US (or three years if you are under 25 years old), and using an eligible 4-door vehicle. You'll also need to share some documentation, including a valid driver's license, proof of residency, and proof of vehicle insurance. Once you've signed up, you can complete a screening online, which will review your driving record and criminal history.

If you're already an Uber driver, you might be interested in learning about how to do airport pickups. Airport pickups are very different from regular pickups, so it's important to familiarize yourself with the rules and regulations of your local airport. The Uber app will guide you to the designated pickup and drop-off locations, which may differ from where you would usually meet friends and family. It's also helpful to ask riders which airline they're flying with and whether their flight is domestic or international, so you can easily find the correct terminal and departures area.

Check if you need a special permit or placard

Before you start driving with Uber, it is important to check if you need a special permit or placard to operate at your local airport. This is because airport pickups are very different from pickups anywhere else, and there may be specific rules and regulations that you need to follow.

To do this, you can first check with Uber to see if you need any special permits or placards. You can also visit the Uber airport information page for more information about your local airport, as most airports also have their own websites that provide details about local rules and regulations. In addition, be sure to review which products your vehicle is eligible for, and ensure you have all the required documents for your city.

It is also worth noting that airport rules and operating procedures may differ by city, so it is always a good idea to visit your local Greenlight Hub for more details about the specific rules and regulations of your airport.

Understand the airport's rules and regulations

Airports can be complicated places, especially for drivers, so it's important to understand the rules and regulations of the specific airport you'll be driving to and from. Before your first airport pickup, check with Uber to see if you need a special permit or placard for your airport. You can do this by visiting the Uber airport information page or your local airport's website, or by visiting a Greenlight Hub for expert help from Uber.

The rules and operating procedures may differ depending on the city and airport. The app will show you the pickup location allowed by airport rules, which may differ from where you would usually meet friends and family. Airports may also have designated zones specifically for Uber and other ridesharing services.

When taking a rider to the airport, it can be helpful to ask them which airline they're flying with and whether their flight is domestic or international. This way, you can easily navigate to the correct terminal and departures area.

After dropping off a rider at the airport, the app will often direct you to a lot where you can wait for an airport pickup request. At certain airports, you may even have the option to pick up another rider right away without entering the waiting lot.

Prepare your car for airport pickups

Preparing your car for airport pickups is essential to ensure a smooth and comfortable journey for your passengers. Here are some detailed instructions to get your vehicle ready:

Cleanliness and Comfort:

Start by thoroughly cleaning the interior of your car. Vacuum any dirt or debris, and wipe down all surfaces, including the dashboard, doors, and windows. Ensure there are no unpleasant odours, and consider using a mild air freshener if needed. A clean and pleasant-smelling car will create a good first impression.

Vehicle Maintenance:

Before heading to the airport, ensure your vehicle is in good working condition. Check the tyre pressure, top up any necessary fluids, and ensure all lights and signals are functional. Also, inspect the wiper blades and top up the washer fluid. If your car has any minor repairs or services due, it's best to get those done beforehand.

Luggage Space:

Airport passengers typically have luggage, so ensure your trunk and backseat area are clear and spacious. If you need to, fold down the backseats to create more room. It's also a good idea to have a luggage strap or bungee cord to help secure larger items and prevent shifting during transport.

In-Car Essentials:

Stock your vehicle with items that will enhance the comfort and convenience of your passengers. This includes having a phone charger, tissues, hand sanitiser, and a small bin or rubbish bag. You may also want to provide bottled water and, depending on your location, a local magazine or guidebook.

Signage and Identification:

Display any Uber signage or stickers clearly on your car, as per the company's guidelines. Ensure your license plate is clean and visible, and consider adding an Uber sticker to the front windshield for easier identification.

Know the Airport Layout:

Familiarise yourself with the airport layout, including the designated pickup and drop-off zones for rideshare services. Each airport has different regulations, so check the specific rules for your local airport. Knowing the layout will help you navigate efficiently and reduce potential confusion for your passengers.

Be Punctual:

Arrive at the airport with ample time to spare. This will allow you to navigate the airport without rushing and ensure you are at the designated pickup point when your passenger arrives. Punctuality is key to providing a professional service.

By following these steps, you can ensure your car is well-prepared for airport pickups, contributing to a positive experience for both you and your passengers.

Know the approved pickup and drop-off locations

Knowing the approved pickup and drop-off locations is essential when driving with Uber to and from the airport. Airports can be complicated places for drivers, but familiarising yourself with the basics and getting information in advance about your local airport can help you prepare for your first pickup or drop-off.

Before your first airport pickup, check with Uber to see if you need a special permit or placard for your airport. The Uber app will show you the approved pickup location as per airport rules. It is important to note that this location might differ from where you would usually meet friends and family.

When taking a rider to the airport, asking them which airline they are flying with and whether they are flying domestic or international can be helpful. This way, you can navigate to the correct terminal and the airline's departures area.

After dropping off a rider at the airport, the app will often direct you to a lot where you can wait for an airport pickup request. At certain airports, you might even have the option of picking up another rider right away without entering the waiting lot.

It is important to remember that airport rules and operating procedures may differ by city. Visit your local Greenlight Hub or check the Uber airport information page for more details about the specific rules and regulations of your airport. Additionally, most airports have their own websites that provide information about local rules and regulations.

Learn how to identify your rider

Uber has a rider verification process to confirm that its users are who they say they are. This process helps promote mutual accountability and safety. It involves cross-checking a rider's account information provided during sign-up against third-party databases. In cases where Uber cannot validate the information attached to a rider's account, riders can choose to upload a government ID or other documentation, such as a passport or national identity card, along with a selfie. This additional documentation helps complete the verification process.

Privacy is a priority for Uber, and they securely store verification data and encrypt ID documents. Drivers will only be able to see a rider's first name, star rating, verified rider badge, and trip details.

Verified riders will receive a blue badge in the Account section of the Uber app, which is shown to drivers when a verified rider requests a ride. This badge adds an extra layer of trust, safety, and peace of mind for drivers and all Uber platform users.

In some countries, Uber may ask riders to submit a real-time selfie along with a photo of their identification card. They use liveness detection technology to verify that these are unaltered photos of a real person. Facial recognition technology is then used to compare the selfie with the photo on the ID to ensure they match.

Additionally, Uber may require secondary selfie verification for certain products or services, such as car rentals. In this case, after completing the initial ID and selfie verification, riders may be asked to submit a second selfie at vehicle delivery or pickup. This ensures that the person picking up the vehicle is the verified rider and not an unauthorized person.

By implementing these verification measures, Uber prioritizes safety and trust for both riders and drivers, creating a more secure and reliable experience for all users.

Frequently asked questions