Health
Are Uber’s Background Checks Enough?
Health Points
- Uber’s background checks may miss offenses from over seven years ago or in other states.
- The company balances safety with second chances, but some policies were rejected internally.
- Riders can use safety tools and share trips for extra peace of mind.
Recent findings show Uber’s driver screening has gaps, letting drivers with certain past convictions behind the wheel if those occurred more than seven years ago or in states not recently lived in. Internal debates led Uber to reject measures like fingerprinting, while the company continues to advocate for its current approach.
This can leave riders thinking more proactively about safety—options like sharing your location, using in-app tools, or staying connected to friends all help boost confidence during a trip. Small actions, such as mentioning someone is expecting you, can deter unwanted behavior.
Stay informed and use the resources available in your ride apps to prioritize your safety every trip.
