Can I Drive for Uber With a DWI?

Since its inception in 2009, Uber has made it convenient and affordable for people to catch a ride to just about any destination. Countless people in Houston rely on Uber in situations where they will be drinking alcohol and need to travel about the city.

If you’ve been charged with a DWI in Houston but would like to drive for Uber in order to earn a full-time income or supplement your current salary, you may be wondering whether you can. The answer to this question is based on whether you’re charged turned into a conviction and when your conviction occurred.

If you’ve been charged with a DWI, a DWI defense lawyer from The Law Offices of Ned Barnett can evaluate your situation and inform you if you can drive for Uber with a DWI. Call us at (713) 222-6767 for a free consultation.

Requirements for Uber Drivers

Uber is a great way for Houston residents to make money. However, because Uber is selective in who they hire, not everyone is eligible to become an Uber driver. If you are interested in driving for Uber, you should make sure that you meet all of the company’s requirements prior to applying.

To be eligible to drive for Uber, you must be at least 21-years-old and have at least three years of U.S. driving experience if you are younger than 23 or at least one year of driving experience if you are older than 23. You must also possess a valid U.S. driver’s license and own an eligible vehicle. In Houston, an eligible vehicle must be insured and contain four doors. In addition, it cannot be older than the model year 2006, and may not be salvaged, rebuilt, or feature any commercial branding.

Prior to driving for Uber, you will be required to share your driver’s license, proof of vehicle registration, and proof of vehicle insurance. Additionally, you must pass a comprehensive screening process which includes a driving record and criminal background check from the previous seven years of your life. In the event that you have been convicted of a DWI or another driving offense like reckless driving, a hit or run, or driving without insurance within the last seven years, you will not be allowed to drive for Uber.

How a Houston DWI Attorney Can Help

If you are facing a DWI arrest and would like to drive for Uber, a Houston DWI attorney may be able to make your wish a reality by helping you avoid a conviction. Our firm will thoroughly investigate every aspect of your case and build a solid defense strategy that may dismiss your charges and allow you to be eligible to drive for Uber. Several examples of defense strategies that we may use include:

• The police officer did not read you your Miranda rights in some situations.
• There were errors in your DWI blood and breath alcohol test.
• The police lacked probable cause for your arrest.
• A health condition such as heartburn or GERD led to a false reading on the breath alcohol test.

Call The Law Offices of Ned Barnett

If you’re serious about driving for Uber and would like to avoid the harsh penalties that come with a DWI conviction, it is in your best interest to call The Law Offices of Ned Barnett at (713) 222-6767 for a free consultation.