New York’s rules for rideshare drivers are among the most comprehensive and regulated in the country, with distinct requirements for New York City (NYC) versus the rest of the state. Here’s what you need to know:
Key Requirements for Rideshare Drivers in New York
Driver Requirements
Age: At least 19 years old (Uber’s requirement; Lyft may have similar standards).
Driver’s License: Must have a valid New York State driver’s license. Temporary or out-of-state licenses are not allowed.
Background Check: All rideshare applicants must undergo a criminal background check. This is required by law and is conducted by private companies on behalf of Uber and Lyft.
Driving Limits: Cannot provide rides for more than 10 consecutive hours or more than 60 total hours in a 7-day period.
Identification: Must display required emblems and placards and always carry your driver’s license and insurance documents.
Vehicle Requirements
Model Year:
-Statewide (outside NYC): Typically 2009 or newer (Lyft), or 2006 or newer (Uber, with some cosmetic and operational standards).
-NYC: Vehicles may need to be 2020 model year or newer to continue operating, depending on TLC rules.
Doors: Must have four doors (or be a minivan).
Seating: 5–8 seatbelts, including the driver’s.
Condition: No salvage, non-repairable, or rebuilt titles; no commercial branding (for Uber, outside NYC).
NYC-Specific: Vehicles must have Taxi and Limousine Commission (TLC) plates and TLC insurance policy.
Insurance Requirements
Statewide: Rideshare companies provide insurance coverage when the app is active or a passenger is in the car. Coverage can be as high as $1.25 million in liability and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.
NYC: Drivers must carry special commercial insurance. Minimum coverage is $100,000 per person, $300,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $10,000 for property damage.
Pay and Compensation
NYC:
Minimum Pay: NYC has established a minimum pay rate for rideshare drivers, which was set to increase by 5% in 2025 under a new proposal.
Downtime Pay: Drivers must be paid for the time between rides, not just for active trips.
Recent Issues: Despite minimum wage protections, some drivers report earning less than minimum wage after expenses.
Outside NYC:
Minimum Pay: As of March 2025, minimum pay for non-NYC drivers is $27.58 per earnings period. If earnings (excluding tips) are below this, drivers receive an additional payment to make up the difference.
Other Rules
-No Cash Payments: Cannot accept cash for rides.
-No Street Hails: Cannot accept street hails or wait in taxi lines.
-Airport Rules: Must follow all airport regulations.
-Vehicle Use: Cannot use a taxi, stretch limousine, or certain rental vehicles.
Summary Table
| Requirement | NYC | Rest of New York State |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum Vehicle Year | 2020+ (varies by TLC rule) | 2009+ (Lyft), 2006+ (Uber) |
| Insurance | TLC plates, commercial insurance | Company coverage, personal insurance |
| Minimum Pay | Minimum wage + 5% proposed in 2025 | $27.58/earnings period (2025) |
| Driver’s License | NYS license required | NYS license required |
| Background Check | Required | Required |
| Cash Payments | Not allowed | Not allowed |
Key Takeaways
-Rideshare drivers in New York must meet strict vehicle, driver, and insurance requirements, with additional rules and higher standards in NYC.
-Pay protections exist for NYC drivers, including minimum wage and compensation for downtime between rides.
-Outside NYC, drivers are guaranteed a minimum pay per earnings period as of 2025.
-Background checks and valid New York State driver’s licenses are mandatory statewide.
-Always check for the latest updates from the TLC (for NYC) and from Uber/Lyft for any changes in requirements or compensation.
These rules are designed to protect both drivers and passengers, ensure fair compensation, and maintain high safety standards across New York’s rideshare industry.
Sources:
- https://jknylaw.com/blog/vehicle-and-driver-requirements-for-uber-and-lyft-in-new-york/
- https://help.lyft.com/hc/lt/articles/115013078408-New-York-State-Driver-Information
- https://www.criminaljustice.ny.gov/ojis/rideshare.html
- https://rules.cityofnewyork.us/rule/driver-pay-high-volume-for-hire-vehicles/