Navigating Background Checks: Can You Be an Uber Driver With a Criminal Record?

Originally published: January 16, 2020, Updated: June 19, 2024Rideshare companies are increasingly popular, and that means more opportunities for drivers. For instance, in late 2023, Uber said it had reached 6.5 million active drivers and couriers. So you may be wondering: can you be an Uber driver with a criminal record?

Why Would You Consider Driving for Uber If You Have a Criminal Record?

There are plenty of reasons to drive for companies like Uber. Flexible income opportunities may appeal to you if you're trying to build a career in other fields. If you're still reintegrating into society, schedule flexibility may be just what you need as you adjust.This career freedom is particularly relevant for people with criminal records. Establishing a professional foothold can take time, but your bills won't wait for you to catch up. But by the same token, people with criminal histories know the reality: not all opportunities are as accommodating as they seem.It's natural to feel worried about how your criminal record might impact your eligibility to be a rideshare driver. This guide will help you find a path forward. We'll cover:

• What to expect from Uber background checks
• Uber's official policy on drivers with criminal records
• Why talking to the AllCleared team about a record check or record suspension is a wise first step

What Is Uber's Background Check Process?

According to Uber, the company is committed to safety. This makes sense — while rideshare driving isn't the most hazardous industry on Earth, there's still an inherent risk.So how does Uber uphold its obligation? It's easier to understand if you consider how driving for the company works.As a rideshare driver, you're not an Uber employee. You're an independent contractor who's technically running your own business using Uber's app. This is part of the reason you have to provide your own vehicle.Like any company, Uber can't control what its contractors (drivers) do. Instead, it uses comprehensive background checks to filter out potentially unsafe drivers. Applying to work with Uber may be less challenging than many other jobs (there are no interviews), but there's an extra layer of vetting to make up for that.The Uber background check process varies depending on where you plan to work in Canada. First, let's look at the typical elements you might encounter:

1. Motor Vehicle Report (MVR) / Driver Abstract: Uber checks your driving record to ensure it’s clean. This includes verifying your license status, any accidents, and traffic violations. This only applies to the last 3 years of driving records, and the process takes about 3 days.
2. Police Records Check (conducted by Uber): Uber reviews your criminal history to assess your suitability as a driver. They look for any convictions or disqualifying offenses.
3. Online Safety Screening: This process starts with you uploading your Driver's Licence and Certificate of Registration. Then you'll get an email with instructions on how to complete your safety screening (which is free of charge). The screening will look at your past 10 years of driving records and your criminal record.
4. Criminal Record Check (usually with Vulnerable Sector Check): Privacy laws prevent Uber from accessing your criminal record without your permission, so you'll have to contact a police service to request a formal check. This often requires a vulnerable sector check to ensure you're safe to work with at-risk individuals, like children and the elderly.

Here's how the process differs for some major Canadian cities:

• Ottawa: You'll need an MVR and Police Records (with Vulnerable Sector) Check. You should complete a background screening at your local Ottawa Greenlight Hub first.
• Regina: You'll need an Online Safety Screening and Vulnerable Sector Check. You'll also require a Certificate of Approval from the Regina Police Service, which you can obtain by requesting a Criminal Records Check with Vulnerable Sector online. Just make sure to indicate that you want to be a rideshare driver and that Uber Canada should be able to access your results.
• Calgary: You should complete a safety screening with the Calgary Police Service. Be sure you indicate that you want to share your results with Uber Canada and choose the Vulnerable Sector Check option.
• Saskatoon: As a Saskatoon resident, you'll need a Driver Abstract and Criminal Record Check with Vulnerable Sector from the Saskatoon Police. If you're not a Saskatoon resident, you'll have to complete your Criminal Record Check with the RCMP.
• Windsor: You'll need to pass a Vulnerable Sector Check in person or online with the Windsor Police Service.
• Winnipeg: Prospective drivers should complete a Driver Abstract with the Manitoba Public Insurance Service Centre. You'll also need a Police Background Check with Vulnerable Sector Search from the Winnipeg Police Service. Finally, you'll require a Child Abuse Registry application from the Province of Manitoba.

Key Takeaways

• You'll almost always need a Vulnerable Sector Check with your Criminal/Police Record Check. The procedure for getting one varies, so check with your provincial authority or the RCMP.
• The deadlines for getting your checks depend on where you want to drive. It's best to give yourself extra time so you don't have to start over again. Look at Uber’s official city-specific guidelines to avoid cutting things too close.
• Some places are less strict about the length of driving record history they request.
• When getting information from the RCMP or a local police service, make sure to fill out the forms properly. If you don't, Uber Canada might not be able to access your results.
• You'll always need to provide a Driver's License, Certificate of Registration, proof of insurance, and proof of vehicle eligibility. You'll also need to furnish proof of residency.

What Criminal Offenses Might Disqualify You?

When it comes to driving for Uber in Canada, the background check process draws distinctions between misdemeanors and felonies. The nature of your criminal history does make a difference.

Criminal Background Checks and Disqualification

Serious offenses like murder, sexual assault, and terrorism-related crimes automatically disqualify an individual. So do felony convictions for violent or severe crimes.As for non-violent felonies, it depends. Uber may accept certain non-violent felony convictions depending on the circumstances.One thing that might trip you up is having pending charges on your record. These can be disqualifying unless they're resolved in your favor.

Driving Record Check (MVR) and Disqualification

Even if you don't have any bad marks on your driving record, you might still need a minimum history, typically at least 3 years. With that said, international driving experience doesn’t count towards your Canadian history.A clean MVR is a must. Your recent history should contain no more than 3 incidents.Certain driving offenses are automatically disqualifying. These include recent DUIs or reckless driving convictions.

Can You Drive for Uber With a Criminal Record?

Yes. Individuals with criminal records can still drive for Uber.The company judges each applicant on a case-by-case basis. The application looks at many factors — not just the presence of a criminal record.

The Big Picture Matters

Remember that Uber considers both the severity and recency of offenses. Recent violations or serious crimes may be more likely to lead to disqualification. The same goes for having multiple offenses for the same bad driving behavior. For instance, Uber may be less likely to consider you if you're a habitual reckless motorist.Remember that local laws have a huge influence on the criteria. If you’re considering driving for Uber, be sure your background aligns with regional requirements — not just the general guidelines.

What Steps Can You Take to Improve Your Chances of Becoming an Uber Driver?

Want to increase your chances of becoming an Uber driver with a criminal record? It's all a matter of how you present yourself.If you've made efforts toward rehabilitation, don't be shy about it. Highlight your good work and do everything in your power to demonstrate your commitment to safety.One of the best tactics for improving your standing starts before the application process. Apply for a record suspension (or pardon where applicable).Obtaining a record suspension will seal or amend relevant parts of your criminal record to ensure they don’t show up on the background check. While it can't do anything about Vulnerable Sector offenses, like sexual assault crimes against minors, it can make a huge difference in almost all other cases.Talking to the experts at AllCleared is the easiest way to find out if you're eligible for a suspension or pardon. Our team makes it easy to check your status online and move forward with confidence. We can also help you choose the best strategy for resolving your criminal history quickly.

Conclusion

Uber's background check process is complicated. Your chosen driving location makes a difference, and certain offenses carry more weight than others. With that said, the company does consider applicants with criminal records — so don't lose hope.Being proactive is key. Uber may set the terms for what's required of drivers, but you have the power to improve your eligibility. Getting professional assistance from AllCleared is the first step.Having a criminal record doesn't mean you can't drive an Uber. If you have a criminal record and want to improve your odds when applying to Uber, check your eligibility for a record suspension.