How to Become an Uber Eats Driver in Australia

What is Uber Eats & How does it work?

Uber Eats is a food delivery app operating across major cities and regions in Australia. It allows customers to order meals from local restaurants, and delivery partners use vehicles, scooters, or bicycles to complete deliveries. Uber Eats offers flexible earning opportunities for drivers, allowing you to choose your work schedule and get paid per delivery. 

How does Uber Eats function?

Once a customer places an order through the app, a nearby delivery partner receives a request. You can review the pickup and drop-off locations and estimated earnings before deciding whether to accept the order.

After accepting, you head to the restaurant to collect the food. The app provides navigation to both the pick-up location and the customer’s address. At the restaurant, you confirm the order in the app, collect the items, and ensure everything matches the order details.

You then proceed to the delivery address using the in-app directions. Upon arrival, complete the delivery according to the customer’s instructions. For example, some customers request a meeting at the door or leave the order at a designated spot for contactless delivery. Once the delivery is complete, confirm it in the app to finalise the trip and receive payment.

Uber Eats Driver Requirements in Australia

Personal eligibility & documents

You must: 

1. Be at least 18 years old

2. Own a smartphone compatible with the Uber Eats app and have reliable internet access.

3. Hold a valid driver’s license. Uber Eats accepts overseas driver's license in New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, the Australian Capital Territory, South Australia, & Western Australia. If your license  is not in English, you must provide a NAATI-certified translation or an International Driving Permit.

4. Provide valid proof of your identity (Passport or birth certificate).

5. Pass a background check online.

6. Have a valid Australian work visa if you are not an Australian citizen. 

7. Have Health insurance or Medicare.

8. Own a portable charger.

9. Own an insulated bag to keep food warm for deliveries.

10. For bicycle deliveries:

• Complete any required bicycle safety onboarding steps

• Ensure the bicycle is roadworthy (working brakes, inflated tyres, lights/reflectors)

• Wear a helmet (mandatory under Australian road laws)

Uber Eats vehicle requirements (car or scooter)

If delivering by car, the vehicle must:

• Be a 1990 model or newer (subject to change based on Uber’s current policy)

• Be registered in Australia

• Have valid comprehensive or third-party property insurance

• Be in a safe, roadworthy condition

If delivering by scooter or motorcycle:

• Be registered and insured

• Meet state road safety requirements

• Be in a safe working condition

Business and Tax requirements

1. Obtain an Australian Business Number (ABN).

2. The ABN must match your legal name (or registered business name). 

3. You must register for GST if your current GST turnover exceeds $75,000. 

How to Sign Up with Uber Eats in Australia

• Create an Account: Visit the Uber Eats driver website or download the app. Provide your email, create a password, and share some basic information. The app will be your primary tool for accepting and completing deliveries.

• Apply for background and right-to-work checks: These help Uber determine whether you meet the requirements to register on the app and have the right to work in Australia. 

• Upload Required Documents: This includes proof of identity and relevant driving documents.

• Vehicle Inspection: As mentioned, you must have the mode of transportation you plan to use inspected to ensure it meets Uber's standards.

• Activate Your Account: Once Uber verifies your documents and approves your mode of transportation, you're all set to start earning.

Note that, while uploading your documents, you have constant access to three support options:

Direct Call Support: Phone support is available, 7 days a week, between 7 am and 1:59 am AEST. You can speak to a member of the support team by calling 1300 091 272

Online Support: Additional support is available on the Uber website.

Certified Translation for Driver's License in Australia: Uber Eats

If your driver's license was issued overseas and is not in English, don’t be alarmed. All you need is a certified translation of your license. A certified translation ensures that your driver's license is accurately translated into English. This is crucial because it ensures that all pertinent information is conveyed accurately, eliminating ambiguity or misunderstanding.

To guarantee the authenticity and accuracy of the translation, The Australian government specifies that official translations must be done by a NAATI- certified translator. The National Accreditation Authority for Translators and Interpreters is the top most organization that ensures the quality of translations in Australia. A NAATI translator is equipped with the skills and expertise to provide a translation that meets Australia's stringent requirements.

While there are many translation services available, it is important to select a translation agency that will provide NAATI translation services. This entails providing a stamp and a certificate of accuracy with your driver’s license translations, ensuring Uber Eats and any other Australian entity recognises the document's validity.

How to Convert My Driver’s License to a Different State?

If you're relocating within Australia and wish to continue working for Uber Eats:

• Visit the local transport department in your new state.

• Provide your current license and necessary identification documents.

• Pay the applicable fees.

• Your new state license will be issued, and your old one will be invalidated.