Yes, you can drive a leased car for Uber, but it is not automatically allowed. The decision ultimately rests with your leasing company, not Uber. Many major leasing companies explicitly prohibit using a leased vehicle for commercial activities like ridesharing in their contract terms. Violating this can result in significant fees, voiding your warranty, or even repossession of the car. Your first and most critical step is to review your lease agreement carefully and contact your lessor for direct authorization.
Uber's own vehicle requirements are generally compatible with leased cars, as they typically mandate a 4-door vehicle in good condition that is 15 years old or newer. However, the leasing company's rules supersede Uber's acceptance.
If your lessor prohibits ridesharing, you have a few options. Some companies, like Hyundai's subscription service, offer programs that explicitly allow for commercial use. Alternatively, you could explore leasing a car through Uber's own partnerships with specific dealers and lenders, which are designed for this purpose. Another path is to switch to a financing agreement, where you own the car and have full control over its use.
Be mindful of insurance implications. Your personal auto policy will not cover you while you are actively driving for Uber. You need to rely on Uber's contingent insurance or purchase a separate commercial rideshare gap policy to be fully protected. Failure to have proper coverage can lead to denied claims and financial liability.
| Consideration | Key Action / Implication |
|---|
| Lease Agreement | Primary hurdle; must contain no commercial use clause or have written lessor permission. |
| Insurance | Personal policy is insufficient; requires Uber's insurance or a supplemental rideshare policy. |
| Mileage Limits | Standard leases have annual limits (e.g., 10,000-12,000 miles); Uber driving can cause overages. |
| Vehicle Wear & Tear | Excess wear beyond "normal use" defined in the lease can result in costly charges at turn-in. |
| Warranty | Commercial use may void the manufacturer's warranty, leaving you responsible for repairs. |
| Uber's Requirements | Vehicle must be a 2009 or newer model for most markets, with 4 doors and a clean title. |
