Resame Oyama
This post is also available in:English /
Updated:
Jul 9, 2025
Published:
Dec 11, 2023
Thinking about taking your Uber driving career to the next level? If you're already an UberX driver and want to unlock higher earnings and luxury vehicle perks, Uber Premier could be the perfect upgrade.
Designed for top-rated drivers with high-end vehicles, Uber Premier offers a more exclusive experience for both drivers and passengers.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about becoming an Uber Premier driver in Australia.
Table of Contents
What is Uber Premier?
Uber Premier is Uber’s top-tier rideshare category in Australia, offering premium luxury rides in high-end vehicles with highly-rated drivers. It was introduced as a premium option comparable to the traditional Uber Black service; in fact, in some cities, Uber Premier has replaced Uber Black as the highest service level.
Uber Premier riders get to ride in luxury vehicles, ranging from SUVs to luxury Sedans, while their drivers have the opportunity to earn more than the average Uber X driver.
Uber Premier is the highest level of Uber rideshare service that you can order. As a result, Uber's requirements for the cars used for Premier rides are more stringent than those for other levels.
Uber Premier vs UberX vs Uber Black: Key differences
Uber offers a range of ride options in Australia. UberX is the standard service (affordable, everyday cars), while Uber Premier and Uber Black are high-end luxury ride services that cost more than regular Uber rides.
The major difference is that Uber Black drivers are mandated to adhere to state regulations for livery drivers, including the necessity for commercial auto insurance.
Unlike Uber Black, however, Uber Premier does not require vehicles to be black or drivers to hold full commercial livery licences, making it slightly more accessible to eligible drivers. Additionally, you must also have a 4.6 rating to become a Premier Driver.
Here’s a comparison of these services in terms of pricing, regulations, vehicle standards, and driver requirements:
Pricing and fares
Uber Premier rides cost significantly more than UberX rides, approximately 1.8 to 2 times the UberX rate for the same distance and time.
For example, the minimum fare for a Premier ride in Sydney is about $15, compared to $9 for UberX. Other cities have similarly higher Premier pricing. Uber Black was also priced in a similar premium range; users pay a high-end fare for the luxury service.
Overall, Premier and Black are much more expensive for riders than UberX, and can yield higher earnings per trip for drivers.
Vehicle standards
UberX vehicles simply need to meet basic requirements (typically under 10–15 years old, 4 doors, 5 seats, any color, in good working condition) and can be a wide variety of models.
Uber Premier vehicles must be high-end luxury models under ~6–7 years old with impeccable condition and amenities. There is also an aesthetic expectation: Premier cars tend to be larger, quieter, and more comfortable, often with leather interiors and more legroom.
Uber Black has similar (or even stricter) vehicle requirements as Premier; the allowed models for Black are largely the same luxury list. However, a key difference is that Uber Black requires the car to have a black exterior (and usually black leather interior) to maintain a uniform executive look. Premier has no color restriction; the car can be any color as long as it’s a qualifying model and in top condition.
Driver requirements and professionalism
UberX drivers can start with no prior Uber experience, and the minimum rating to stay active is lower. Uber Premier drivers must already be seasoned Uber drivers with a 4.6+ star rating and 20+ trips completed before they are allowed to upgrade. For Uber Black, drivers often need a 4.85+ rating and considerable professional driving experience. In summary, Premier and Black drivers are the elite tier of Uber drivers (high ratings, proven service), whereas UberX has a mix of new and experienced drivers.
Regulations and licencing
Uber Black in Australia operated as a limousine/private hire service, which meant that drivers often had to hold a hire car authority or commercial licence, depending on the state, and carry commercial insurance. Uber Premier drivers do not need separate commercial auto insurance or special limousine licences beyond the standard rideshare driver accreditation. UberX has the least regulatory burden; drivers just need the standard private hire accreditation (no commercial licence) and personal rideshare insurance.
What are the perks of being an Uber Premier driver in Australia?
You earn more: Since Uber Premier provides a luxury experience, the prices of their rides are almost twice the prices of rides on Uber X. You get to earn higher distance rates per trip, so this means you make more money.
Access to premium clientele: The Uber Premier service typically caters to elite individuals, consisting of business people, celebrities, professionals, and various members of the upper crust. This gives you a great chance to meet them as you transport them and possibly build the invaluable connections you need for the next phase of your life.
Access to exclusive incentive programs: Uber knows the value of its Premier drivers and as such, they often run incentive programs and promotions specifically tailored for them like bonuses, rewards, and other enticing perks.
A flexible schedule: Just like other Uber services, Premier allows you to set your schedules, giving you the flexibility to balance driving with other commitments.
Enhanced driver ratings: To provide a Premier service in Australia, you need to have a minimum Uber driver rating of 4.6 to qualify. This motivates you to offer a top-notch experience, leading to higher customer satisfaction and improved ratings. This can have a positive impact on your overall reputation on the platform.
The first step is to create an account on the Uber website. Afterwards, you need to ensure that you meet the requirements for becoming a driver. These include:
Age and licencing requirements
You must be at least 20 years old to drive, (21 years for Victoria and New South Wales).
Have a valid Australian driver’s license with a minimum driving experience of 12 months (minimum of 6 months for some states and territories).
Have an eligible high-end vehicle that meets the Uber vehicle requirements
You must be an active Uber driver who has completed at least 20 trips and maintained a minimum driver rating of 4.6 (out of 5) to qualify for Uber Premier
Have an Australian Business Number (ABN) and be registered for GST (Goods and Services Tax), regardless of income
Minimum vehicle requirements
All Uber Premier cars must meet the minimum vehicle requirements, which are that every vehicle:
Must be a high-end, 4-door luxury car or SUV from Uber’s eligible Premier list
If part of a fleet: have commercial vehicle insurance.
Must be registered as a commercial passenger vehicle.
Should be free from cosmetic damage, such as scuff marks, scratches, and indentations (excluding hail damage).
Should be free from commercial branding, excluding taxi commercial branding.
Must be registered as a commercial passenger vehicle.
If a taxi, it must comply with all applicable local laws regarding vehicle requirements, including livery, equipment, security cameras, and tactile registration numbers.
Any additional documents stipulated by the state or territory where you intend to drive.
Your driver profile photo.
The photo must be forward-facing and centred, capturing your full face and the top of your shoulders.
Sunglasses are not permitted in the photo.
The image should solely feature you, be well-lit, and be in clear focus. It should not be a driver's license photo or any other printed photograph. In other words, it cannot be a photo of a photo. It has to be the original shot.
When you have successfully become an Uber Driver with a high rating of 4.6 or higher, you can now be on your way to becoming an Uber Premier Driver in Australia.
Approved Uber Premier car list for Australia
Each vehicle listed here must be a 4-door high-end vehicle that is a 2017 model or newer as of 2023:
1. Review all the eligibility criteria again to ensure you meet the requirements.
2. Upgrade your vehicle to one that matches all the Premier vehicle criteria.
3. Put your paperwork together. As a foreigner whose first language is not English, you may need to get certified translations for your official documents. Ensure you do this before proceeding with the application. Untranslated documents may not be accepted and therefore require translation. Hire a certified translator in Australia who ensures accuracy and compliance with Australian NAATI standards. You will typically need the following documents;
Full Driver's license.
Proof of residency in your province.
Proof of vehicle insurance.
Driving record.
4. If you are a driver with a 4.6 rating, your Uber app usually upgrades itself and includes an Uber Premier option for you. If this doesn’t happen, click 'Help' in your driver app and book an appointment to visit the nearest Uber office. You can request to be upgraded to Uber Premier or create a separate Uber Premier Account for yourself. If you opt for a separate account, you will need a new phone number and email address, so go prepared.
5. Submit or upload your paperwork and any other additional details as requested by Uber.
6. Wait for the background check to be completed if you choose to create a separate account. This is because the background check on your previous account does not transfer to the new account.
How much does an Uber Premier driver make in Australia?
Your everyday Uber X driver makes about $2.50 as base fare and can earn up to $2000 a week in Australia, and Uber Premier drivers are expected to make much more.
But making more depends on several factors, such as how long you drive, how often you drive, and where you drive. Because Uber Premier is a more expensive service, it may not be requested as often as Uber X. But not to worry, you can still drive for Uber X while you wait for a request from Uber Premier.
Here’s how much an Australian Uber Premier driver earns on average:
Base fare: $5.50
Per Minute: $0.88
Per Kilometer: $3.19
Minimum Fare: $15
Cancellation Fee: $10
How can Translayte help you earn independently?
Becoming an Uber Premier driver in Australia unlocks a realm of possibilities for enhanced earnings, unique experiences, and valuable connections. By upgrading your vehicle, getting through the application process, and meeting the criteria, you can position yourself to reap the benefits of driving in style.
