The creation of apps like Uber and Lyft has been a godsend for many. Rideshares allow you to get around town easily, quickly, and for less than a cab. They’re also a no-brainer for those who plan to go out and drink alcohol—no need to worry about risking driving under the influence or getting your car towed when you can get home safe and sound for a reasonable fee.
Another major plus is that many Americans now have an additional source of income. Part-time and full-time workers can supplement their income with these wages from the comfort of their own car, simply by driving around their own cities. You’re your own boss, you pick your own hours, and you can cash out your earnings that day. The job seems to be a win-win all around. However, it’s important to know that as the final step of their signup process, Uber and Lyft require their drivers to consent to a full background check.
Most rideshare companies generally use a third party to conduct these searches, which include national and local databases. They’ll check your Motor Vehicle record as well as your criminal history. Local laws often dictate which specific criteria they apply to your background search, but here’s what they’ll likely deny drivers for:
- Being on the National Sex Offender Registry
- 1 serious driving-related conviction in the past seven years (basically any felony involving a vehicle)
- 1 DUI/DWI or other drug-related driving violation in the past 7 years.
- 1 single major moving violation in the past 3 years (reckless driving, driving with a suspended license, etc.)
- 3+ minor moving violations in the past 3 years (accidents, traffic light violations, etc.)
- A conviction for one of the following violent crimes: homicide, kidnapping, human trafficking, carjacking, aggravated assault, acts of terror, robbery, or property damage offenses.
In addition to these, there are other records and offenses that can make it harder for you to be eligible to drive for a rideshare. You should also know that Uber and Lyft conduct annual background checks, so if you get in trouble with the law while driving for them, they’ll probably find out about it.
If you’ve been considering becoming a driver for a rideshare company but think you could be denied because of your criminal record, reach out to Easy Expunctions. While not all of the above listed convictions can be expunged, many can. We will work with you to determine if you’re eligible to receive an expunction, which will legally remove the offense from official records and databases. Our goal is to give you the opportunity to pursue any job you want without the burden of a criminal history.
