Driving for a rideshare service can be a fun way to earn extra cash: you’ll meet interesting people and get to know your city in detail (and maybe nearby ones as well!). But you’ve got both Lyft and Uber to choose from—how do you decide which one you should drive for? Here’s a look at what each one offers to drivers, and how they compare.

The basics: Lyft vs. Uber

Both Lyft and Uber work the same way: you use your own car to pick up passengers and earn money based on the distance and time of their trip. But there are some key differences that might help you decide between the two.

Lyft

  1. More of a community vibe: Lyft markets itself as the friendlier (but they don’t do the furry grill mustaches anymore, thank goodness!), more community-focused option. If you like chatting with passengers, Lyft might be your jam.
  2. More tipping generosity: According to social media and internet buzz, Lyft passengers tend to tip more frequently and generously. So that’s a point in Lyft’s favor.
  3. Bester driver support: Lyft is often praised for support of their drivers and a more positive company culture. Feeling appreciated and taken care of can make a big difference in your everyday driving experience.

Uber

  1. Higher demand: Uber generally has a larger customer base in most areas, which means more incoming ride requests. If you want to stay busy and maximize your earnings, Uber’s higher volume is an advantage.
  2. A range of services: Uber offers a wider range of service classes, from UberX to UberBLACK. If you have a luxury car, that could be a benefit, because you can potentially earn more by offering premium rides.
  3. Global reach: Uber operates in more cities and countries than Lyft, which is great if you travel or plan to move. Once you’re an Uber driver, you can work pretty much anywhere Uber operates.

Earnings: Show me the money!

When it comes to making money, both platforms have their pros and cons.

Lyft

  1. Hourly guarantees: Lyft sometimes offers hourly guarantees during peak times. This means you’re assured to earn a minimum amount if you accept a certain number of rides per hour.
  2. Power driver bonus: Lyft has a Power Driver bonus program, rewarding drivers who complete a high number of rides in a week. This can be a great way to boost your income.
  3. Tipping: As mentioned earlier, Lyft’s tipping culture can add to your earnings in a big way.

Uber

  1. Surge pricing: Uber’s surge pricing can lead to higher fares during busy times. If you’re strategic about when and where you drive, you can capitalize on these surges.
  2. Quest promotions: Uber’s Quest promotions offer bonuses for completing a set number of trips within a specific time frame. These can be quite lucrative if you’re a frequent driver.
  3. Weekly payouts: Uber pays out weekly, but you can also cash out your earnings instantly for a small fee if you need quick access to your funds.

Flexibility: When and where you drive

Both Lyft and Uber offer flexibility, allowing you to set your own schedule and drive whenever it suits you. But there are a few differences to consider.

Lyft

  1. Prime Time: Lyft’s Prime Time is similar to Uber’s surge pricing, but drivers often find it a little less predictable. That can be both good and bad, depending on how you look at it.
  2. Driver hubs: Lyft has local driver hubs where you can get support, vehicle inspections, and more. That can be super useful if you need help or have questions.

Uber

  1. Heat maps: Uber’s app has heat maps to show you areas with highest demand. That can help you know where to go to get the most rides.
  2. Destination Mode: Uber’s Destination Mode lets you set a destination and only get ride requests that are on your way. This is very convenient for squeezing in a few rides on your commute.

Driver support: what does each provide?

When you have a question or problem (for example, if your driver app isn’t working properly), it’s important that you get it resolved right away, so you can avoid interruptions to your earnings.

Lyft

  1. Drivers can get support through the app by submitting an online request, or online chat.
  2. Lyft Hub: an in-person driver support center for inspections and support. Numerous reviews in May and June 2024 indicate that many Lyft Hubs no longer offer driver support; they’re only used as a site for drivers to rent cars from Lyft.

Uber

  1. Like Lyft, Uber Drivers can get support through the app (and submit a ticket or chat live). Uber drivers can also reach support via phone for most issues, which Lyft does not currently offer.
  2. Uber GreenlightHub: a local hub where drivers can go to onboard or to get in-person help with any issues they may have. 

Driver Requirements: Getting Started

The requirements to drive for both companies are very similar, but there are a few distinctions.

Lyft

  1. Age and experience: You need to be at least 21, with a minimum of one year of licensed driving experience (or three years’ experience if you’re under 23).
  2. Vehicle: Your car usually has to be a 2006 or newer (though this sometimes varies by city).
  3. Background check: Lyft’s background check process includes a review of your driving history and a background check.

Uber

  1. Age and experience: You must be at least 21 years old with at least one year of driving experience (three years if you’re under 23).
  2. Vehicle: Your car generally needs to be a 2001 or newer, but—just like Lyft—that can vary by location.
  3. Background check: Uber’s background check also includes a review of your driving record and criminal history.