Uber Black is Uber premium service tier, and its requirements sit above the standard e-hailing requirements. You need everything required for ordinary Uber driving, plus a vehicle meeting the stricter Black specification and, in most markets, a higher driver rating.
The vehicle is what distinguishes the tier. Uber Black requires a premium vehicle, usually a specified list of luxury models in a limited range of colours, with a leather or premium interior and a lower maximum age than the standard tier.
Driver or Vehicle Requirements at a Glance
Uber Black assesses the following, in addition to the standard e-hailing requirements.
- Everything required for standard Uber driving, including a professional driving permit and an operating licence
- A vehicle on Uber approved premium model list for your city
- A lower maximum vehicle age than the standard tier
- A premium interior, commonly specified as leather
- Exterior colour restrictions, commonly black
- A driver rating at or above the threshold Uber sets for the tier
Licence and Eligibility Requirements
The licence and permit requirements are identical to standard e-hailing, since they are set by law. A professional driving permit is required for carrying passengers for reward.
Uber additionally applies its own standards for the tier, which commonly include a minimum driver rating and a record of completed trips. New drivers cannot usually start on Black.
Vehicle, Inspection and Safety Requirements
The vehicle specification is the practical barrier. Approved models are premium sedans and SUVs, the age limit is tighter than for the standard tier, and both interior and exterior condition are assessed more strictly at inspection.
Because the vehicle cost is substantially higher, confirm the approved model list and the age limit for your city before purchasing. Uber revises these lists, and a vehicle bought for the tier can fall outside it as it ages. Ordinary private motor insurance generally does not cover carrying fare-paying passengers. Confirm in writing with your insurer that your policy covers e-hailing use, because discovering otherwise after an accident is the most expensive way to find out.
Documents, PrDP or Supporting Evidence
Expect to supply the following.
- All documents required for standard Uber driving
- The vehicle registration certificate for the premium vehicle
- A valid roadworthy certificate
- Proof of insurance covering e-hailing use
- The operating licence for the vehicle
- Photographs of the vehicle interior and exterior, where requested
Registration or Application Process
Access to the tier is granted through your existing Uber driver account once both you and the vehicle meet the criteria. The vehicle is inspected against the Black specification rather than the standard one.
Because the tier depends on your rating as well as the vehicle, access can be withdrawn if your rating falls below the threshold. Treat the rating as an ongoing requirement rather than a one-off check.
Frequently Asked Questions
What vehicles qualify for Uber Black?
Premium sedans and SUVs on Uber approved model list for your city, usually with colour restrictions and a premium interior. Confirm the current list before buying.
Do I need a higher rating?
Uber commonly sets a minimum driver rating for the tier, and access can be withdrawn if your rating falls below it.
Can a new driver start on Uber Black?
Usually not, since the tier commonly requires a rating and a record of completed trips.
Are the legal requirements different?
No. The professional driving permit and operating licence requirements are the same as for standard e-hailing.
Confirm the approved vehicle list, age limit and rating threshold with Uber for your city before buying a vehicle for this tier. See rideshare driver requirements, PDP requirements and browse all driving and transport requirements.