If you're thinking about becoming a rideshare driver, it can be tough to decide which service to start with.
If you're already an Uber driver or you're already a Lyft driver, maybe you're thinking about trying out the competitor. Here are some key differences drivers will encounter on the two platforms.
Although the per-mile pay rate varies from city to city, Lyft drivers generally get paid slightly more per mile and enjoy higher minimum fares.
Unlike the Uber app, the Lyft app also includes an option to tip your driver, meaning that you’re likely to collect a little extra on top of your fares each day.
A recent survey I conducted asked Lyft drivers how much they were making per hour and the average driver reported earning $17.50 per hour before expenses:
In addition, Lyft also offers a Power Driver bonus program: Drivers who complete a certain number of rides per week (and a certain number of rides during “peak hours”) will get to take home an extra 10% or 20% on their paycheck.
Lyft’s higher payouts are likely a major explanation for why Lyft drivers are happier than their Uber counterparts.
Uber drivers stay busier
Just because Lyft drivers get paid more, that doesn’t necessarily mean they make more money.
Uber has a larger customer base, so you’re likely to find that you’ll get a lot more ride requests on the Uber platform than you will on the Lyft platform.
So even though each ride typically pays less, you may find that Uber’s “quantity over quality” approach nets you more money at the end of the day.
Lyft’s car requirements are stricter
Vehicle requirements at both companies vary depending on where you want to drive. But in almost every area, Lyft requires its drivers to have newer vehicles. Uber, on the other hand, accepts older cars.
To drive for Lyft, you’ll also need to attend an in-person mentoring session. During the session, a Lyft representative will inspect your vehicle to make sure it meets their age and safety requirements. Uber typically does not require in-person meetings, although they do have Greenlight hubs in some areas where you can expedite the sign-up process.
Uber wants you to deliver food, too
Uber drivers are often invited to deliver food through UberEATS after they’ve been on the Uber platform a while. If you agree to participate, you’ll receive requests for food delivery in between trips with passengers. Of course, you’re free to ignore these requests (or opt out of uberEATS entirely) if you’d prefer to just deliver people.
