Yes, you can generally use a rental car for Uber Eats, but it's not a simple yes. The critical factor is the rental company's policy. You must rent from a company that explicitly permits rideshare or delivery activities, such as Hertz's Uber Rentals program or Avis's partnership with Uber. Using a standard rental car for delivery without permission is a violation of the rental agreement and could lead to hefty fines or contract termination.
Before you rent, your first step should be signing up as an Uber Eats driver and getting approved. Then, you must select a rental company that participates in a rideshare-friendly program. These programs include the necessary insurance and registration for commercial use. The costs, including the weekly rental fee and potential mileage caps, need to be factored into your earnings calculations to ensure profitability.
| Rental Program Consideration | Key Details & Data Points |
|---|
| Approved Providers | Hertz, Avis, and Flexdrive have established partnerships with Uber. Renting from non-partnered companies like Budget or Enterprise for delivery is typically prohibited. |
| Insurance Coverage | Partner programs include the required commercial insurance, often with a $1,000 deductible. This is a major benefit over personal policies that may not cover delivery activities. |
| Rental Costs | Expect weekly fees ranging from $215 to $350, not including taxes and fees. This is a significant fixed expense to cover before earning a profit. |
| Mileage Limitations | Some plans may include a weekly mileage cap (e.g., 500-600 miles). Exceeding this limit incurs per-mile charges, which can quickly eat into your delivery earnings. |
| Vehicle Eligibility | The car must be a 4-door, meet Uber's age requirement (typically under 15 years old), and have no cosmetic damage. Rental programs ensure the vehicle meets these standards. |
| Profitability Calculation | You must earn enough to cover the rental fee, gas, and taxes. Driving during peak hours (lunch, dinner) in busy zones is essential to make the numbers work. |
The bottom line is planning. Research the specific terms of the rental program, calculate your estimated net earnings, and ensure the vehicle is officially registered with Uber Eats before you start your first delivery.
