Uber has always tried to keep up with people’s ever-changing needs through its services. Currently, Uber offers several flexible ride options, useful both for passengers and drivers. How much an Uber driver makes per ride depends on the type of ride provided, with the fares varying significantly between a standard UberX and a premium Uber Lux ride. 

While learning how to become an Uber driver , the first thing to do is check the standard Uber car requirements. Every Uber ride option adds extra conditions to this list, so choosing the right car depends on the services you aim to offer. If your car doesn’t meet the requirements, there’s always the flexible option to subscribe to drive a PCO car for rent or a rent to buy car.

Find out the ride types available in the UK and the car requirements for each. 

Check the vehicles eligible for each Uber ride type in London

What is UberX?

This is the standard flagship service for Uber. Designed to accommodate up to four people, it’s Uber’s most popular choice. People tend to opt for UberX because it has a fair value for its price.

Your car has to meet the minimum requirements for this service:

• Four-door model 
• Model year in line with local licensing authority requirements
• In good condition
• No commercial branding 
• Licensed to carry four passengers. 

TIP: You can go for the economical Kia 2 Niro EV or for the reliable Volkswagen ID.3 — both great options for UberX services. 

What is UberX Priority?

One of the latest features Uber added on their UK app is the UberX Priority. This is a service designed for people who’s in a hurry and need an Uber ride as soon as possible. With this option, you can get a faster pick up than UberX.

Choosing the UberX Priority option will give your ride request priority, meaning a lower waiting time. For this advantage, you’ll only have to pay a small fixed surcharge included in your Uber trip cost displayed before you confirm the trip.

IMPORTANT: Uber Priority isn’t available at airports yet.

What is UberXL?

Created for the ones who don’t want to leave any friend behind, UberXL is a service that provides SUVs and vans for larger groups of people. UberXL cars must be licensed to carry six people, excluding the driver and have plenty of boot space. 

Passengers have to pay a higher fee for an UberXL ride, so as a PCO driver, it’s a good opportunity to make more money on a single trip. 

What is Uber Comfort?

If you’re looking to offer your passengers a more elevated experience, Uber Comfort is your go-to choice. This service provides newer and more spacious cars, with highly-rated drivers. It stands out by giving passengers more flexibility — they can set the preferred car temperature in advance, as well as their availability for chat.

The passengers also get an extended waiting time for pick-up of up to 12 minutes, the first two being free of charge. All the advantages come with a higher cost per ride.

TIP: Give your passengers a distinctive experience with the spacious MG5 EV or the stylish MG ZS. 

What is Uber Green?

Uber has enrolled on a mission to improve air quality in the big cities they operate in. The Uber Green service offers affordable and comfortable rides in fully-electric cars. Uber Green is available anywhere in Greater London, for the same price as an UberX.

Therefore, Uber Green is a great opportunity for you as a PCO driver. You earn 10% more for each Uber Green ride, whilst contributing to a cleaner air in your city. Moreover, you can get easier access to an EV by using your Uber Clean Air EV assistance. This might be just the push you need to switch to an EV. 

What is Uber Exec? 

For a premium Uber experience, there is Uber Exec — high-class rides with a price to match. 

Uber Exec cars should be mid-tier luxury models, no older than 2017 and being a highly rated professional driver, with a consistent rating of 4.9 or above, and a minimum of 1000 rides completed. 

If you’re thinking about driving exclusively for Uber Exec, keep in mind that the demand for these services can be quite low, which might not be enough for a consistent income. 

What is Uber Lux?

Uber Lux is the most luxurious service Uber can offer, a top-of-the-line black car service. It requires having a flawless upscale car that has to meet very strict requirements — an approved deluxe model in immaculate condition, with black exterior and interior. 

Uber Lux gives passengers the possibility to request a high-end car with a professional driver. This is the only service that allow you to access legacy cars, such as vintage models in great working conditions.

This service isn’t available in my places, so being able to drive for Uber Lux in London can be a great opportunity for drivers to earn more and offer a unique experience to their passengers.

What is Uber Access / Assist?

For people with a motor disability, Uber Access is a customised option with wheelchair space. Uber Assist is a service designated for people who require additional help for their ride in a standard UberX car. 

The standard UberX must also be accessible for people with service animals and have space for foldable wheelchairs in the boot.

What is UberPet?

Traveling with a furry friend is now a lot easier with the UberPet option. It’s more expensive than UberX and passengers are limited to bringing just one pet. Don’t worry about the possible mess — the passenger is responsible for any damage the pet may cause, by paying a cleaning fee. 

The best news is that Uber is as flexible for their drivers as it for their passengers. Uber allows you to select what service you want to drive for and, if you fit the requirements, you can drive for several services at the same time. 

About Splend

We enable people to make money by driving. Our vision is a future where every on-demand driver can be successful.

We’re PCO car specialists. Don’t take our word for it—drivers rate us excellent on Trustpilot. We can set you up with a brand-new or new-model car on our Flexi own plan, plus we provide the training and support you need to become an Uber driver that’s more profitable, safer, and fulfilled.

Make an appointment at our London Hub at 393 Edgware Road Cricklewood, London, email us, or say hello on 0333 016 4331