Tons of people try out driving for Uber and Lyft as a means to earn some extra cash, but not many make it longer than a year.
Working as a rideshare driver isn’t the toughest job in the world, but few end up sticking with it because they can’t make enough during their time on the road.
To make sure that doesn’t happen to you, we’ve put together a quick guide on how to become a successful Uber or Lyft driver.
Drive less
This first point might seem counterintuitive, but many drivers actually end up spending way too much time on the road.
We don’t mean time driving passengers, but time in between. When you find yourself in between passengers as a rideshare driver, instead of driving around aimlessly, find a good spot to park and wait.
Gas miles add up quickly, so make sure to save whenever you can.
Don’t waste time around other drivers
When other drivers are nearby, the chances of you getting a passenger are reduced.
Make sure to keep an eye on the passenger app to see how many drivers are nearby. If there are a bunch of drivers around you, it might be a good idea to find a new spot.
Stay close to the city
Keeping close to the city almost guarantees that you’ll find passengers. Unless you’re taking someone home (and getting paid for the return trip) it would be wise to stick close to the city —it’s where the money is.
Take a class
There are lots of rideshare drivers who’ve found it extremely helpful to take a course to get them started on driving.
The job might not seem difficult, but there are nuances to driving that you can either learn from experience, or pick up on from an experienced driver teaching a course.
Capitalize on surge pricing and prime time
If you can’t stand to drive during rush hour traffic, you might want to reconsider becoming an Uber or Lyft driver —or start practicing meditation.
You’re going to make the most money as an Uber or Lyft driver completing shorter rides during prime time with surge pricing, as well as when you complete longer trips during the day when there’s less traffic.
Keep thorough records
If you really want to be a successful Uber or Lyft driver, it’s essential that you keep good, thorough records of your expenses.
As a rideshare driver, you’re essentially an independent business owner, which means you’re going to have to pay taxes like one when tax season rolls around.
The IRS standard mileage rate covers things like wear and tear, vehicle maintenance, and some others, but make sure you keep count of all the miles you drive for Uber and Lyft because they’re deductible. You’ll thank yourself later.
Drive for more than one company
Driving for more than one rideshare company isn’t for beginners, so make sure you get some experience first.
But one of the best ways to get the most of your time driving for Uber and Lyft is by driving for them both. Expand your options even more by driving for Uber Eats, Doordash, and other independent delivery services.
The more you diversify, the more chances you have to make quick cash, but get comfortable with one first.
Offer supplementary items
Nothing makes a person feel welcome in an Uber or Lyft ride like free stuff. Whether its complementary water bottles, breath mints, or snacks, your riders will appreciate the gesture.
On top of free goodies, make sure to offer things like hand sanitizer, tissues, and wet wipes to help your guests feel safe and sanitized.
Be safe
The road can be a dangerous place, and if you aren’t careful, you could end up with your car left in a body shop and your reputation on Uber and Lyft ruined.
You can’t place a value on safety, so make sure you make wise choices about when and where you pickup riders, use a phone mount instead of your hands, keep your car up-to-date with maintenance, and keep a first aid kit readily available.
Accidents happen though, and if you’re in need of legal advice, consider reading more here, at JT Legal Group.
Conclusion
Becoming a successful Uber or Lyft driver isn’t an easy task, but if you follow these tips and stick with it, we think you’ll be racking up extra dollars in no time at all!
