Can I Drive for Uber with a Felony?
As the gig economy continues to grow, many individuals are looking for ways to make a living by driving for companies like Uber. However, for those with a felony conviction, the question remains: can I drive for Uber with a felony?
The Short Answer
Unfortunately, the answer is often no. Uber’s policies and state laws prohibit individuals with felony convictions from driving for the company. However, there are some exceptions and considerations to keep in mind.
Uber’s Policy
Uber’s policy states that drivers must meet certain eligibility requirements, including:
- Being at least 21 years old
- Having a valid driver’s license
- Having a reliable vehicle
- Passing a background check
However, Uber’s policy also states that drivers with felony convictions may not be eligible to drive. This includes:
- Felony convictions within the past 7 years: If you have a felony conviction within the past 7 years, you may not be eligible to drive for Uber.
- Felony convictions that are still on your record: If you have a felony conviction that is still on your record, you may not be eligible to drive for Uber.
State Laws
In addition to Uber’s policy, state laws also play a role in determining whether individuals with felony convictions can drive for the company. Some states have laws that prohibit individuals with felony convictions from driving for ride-sharing companies like Uber.
State-by-State Breakdown
Here is a breakdown of the laws in each state:
| State | Felony Conviction Eligibility |
|---|---|
| Alabama | No |
| Alaska | No |
| Arizona | No |
| Arkansas | No |
| California | Yes, but with restrictions |
| Colorado | No |
| Connecticut | No |
| Delaware | No |
| Florida | No |
| Georgia | No |
| Hawaii | No |
| Idaho | No |
| Illinois | No |
| Indiana | No |
| Iowa | No |
| Kansas | No |
| Kentucky | No |
| Louisiana | No |
| Maine | No |
| Maryland | No |
| Massachusetts | No |
| Michigan | No |
| Minnesota | No |
| Mississippi | No |
| Missouri | No |
| Montana | No |
| Nebraska | No |
| Nevada | No |
| New Hampshire | No |
| New Jersey | No |
| New Mexico | No |
| New York | No |
| North Carolina | No |
| North Dakota | No |
| Ohio | No |
| Oklahoma | No |
| Oregon | No |
| Pennsylvania | No |
| Rhode Island | No |
| South Carolina | No |
| South Dakota | No |
| Tennessee | No |
| Texas | No |
| Utah | No |
| Vermont | No |
| Virginia | No |
| Washington | No |
| West Virginia | No |
| Wisconsin | No |
| Wyoming | No |
Exceptions and Considerations
While the answer is often no, there are some exceptions and considerations to keep in mind:
- Expunged or sealed convictions: If your felony conviction has been expunged or sealed, you may be eligible to drive for Uber.
- Restorative justice programs: Some states have restorative justice programs that allow individuals with felony convictions to participate in community service or other forms of rehabilitation. If you have completed such a program, you may be eligible to drive for Uber.
- Individual circumstances: In some cases, Uber may make exceptions for individuals with felony convictions who have demonstrated rehabilitation and are otherwise qualified to drive.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while it is often not possible to drive for Uber with a felony conviction, there are some exceptions and considerations to keep in mind. If you are unsure about your eligibility to drive for Uber, it is best to check with the company directly or consult with an attorney who is familiar with the laws and policies of your state.
