A Guide to Uber Ride Types in Australia

If you're considering driving for Uber in Australia, it's important to understand the different ride types available and their specific vehicle requirements. Choosing the right category can impact your earnings, customer experience, and overall job satisfaction.

This guide will help you determine which Uber ride type best suits your vehicle and driving preferences.

1. UberX

UberX is the most popular and widely used ride option. It allows drivers to earn money using everyday vehicles while providing affordable rides to passengers.

Vehicle requirements:

• Must be a four-door car in good condition.

• Vehicle must be no older than 10-15 years, depending on the city.

• Must have air conditioning and be free from cosmetic damage.

• No commercial branding or advertisements on the vehicle.

• Must pass Uber’s vehicle inspection requirements.

Best for: Drivers looking for a flexible and high-demand ride category with steady earnings potential.

2. Uber Comfort

Uber Comfort allows drivers to earn more per ride by offering passengers a more spacious and newer vehicle with top-rated service.

Vehicle requirements:

• Must be a newer, mid-sized vehicle with extra legroom.

• Must be no older than 5-7 years, depending on the city.

• Must have high-quality interior and exterior conditions.

• Air conditioning and working power windows are required.

• Drivers must have a high rating and completed a minimum number of trips.

Best for: Experienced UberX drivers with newer, more comfortable vehicles who want to maximize earnings.

3. UberXL

UberXL is ideal for drivers with larger vehicles who want to earn more by accommodating bigger groups or passengers with extra luggage.

Vehicle requirements:

• Must be a large vehicle (SUV or minivan) with at least six seatbelts.

• Vehicle must be no older than 10-15 years, depending on the city.

• Must have functional air conditioning and a clean interior.

• Cannot have significant cosmetic damage or mechanical issues.

Best for: Drivers who own SUVs or minivans and want to increase their fare potential by carrying more passengers.

4. Uber Premier

Uber Premier offers higher fares for drivers with luxury vehicles and provides passengers with a high-end ride experience.

Vehicle requirements:

• High-end luxury vehicles such as BMW, Audi, Mercedes-Benz, Lexus, or similar.

• Must be no older than 5 years.

• Leather or premium seating required.

• Drivers must maintain a high rating and provide premium service.

• Vehicle must be well-maintained with no visible damage.

Best for: Drivers with luxury vehicles looking to maximize earnings and cater to high-end passengers.

5. Uber Pool (Available in Select Cities)

Uber Pool allows drivers to maximize earnings by picking up multiple passengers heading in the same direction, reducing empty seat time.

Vehicle requirements:

• Same as UberX requirements.

• Drivers must be willing to pick up multiple passengers along the route.

• Clean and well-maintained vehicles required.

Best for: Drivers comfortable with shared rides and optimizing their trips to increase earnings.

6. Uber Assist

Uber Assist is designed for drivers who want to provide services to seniors and people with disabilities while earning extra through specialized trips.

Vehicle requirements:

• Same as UberX requirements.

• Must have extra space to accommodate foldable wheelchairs, walkers, or mobility aids.

• Drivers must complete special training to assist riders with disabilities.

• Vehicle must be free from interior obstructions that may hinder accessibility.

Best for: Drivers looking to provide assistance to passengers in need while accessing a niche market with additional demand.

7. Uber Pet

Uber Pet allows drivers to accept pet-friendly trips and earn extra by transporting passengers with their furry friends.

Vehicle requirements:

• Same as UberX requirements.

• Drivers must be comfortable allowing pets in their vehicle.

• Vehicle must be kept clean and free from strong odors.

• Riders are responsible for keeping their pets secured in carriers or on a leash.

Best for: Drivers comfortable with pets and looking for additional earnings from pet-friendly trips.

8. Uber Green

Uber Green provides an opportunity for eco-conscious drivers to offer sustainable rides using hybrid or electric vehicles.

Vehicle requirements:

• Must be a fully electric vehicle.

• Vehicle must meet UberX requirements in terms of condition and age.

• Drivers are encouraged to maintain efficient driving habits to maximize environmental benefits.

• Vehicle must have passed Uber’s vehicle safety inspection.

This category is set to explode, with Uber global commitment to eliminate vehicle emissions across it platform by 2040. To this end, Uber Green will transition to a fully electric product, meaning hybrid vehicles, including plug-in hybrids, will no longer be eligible for Uber Green trips.

Read more about the changes Uber is making across vehicle eligibility requirements here

Best for: Drivers with hybrid or electric vehicles who want to contribute to sustainability while benefiting from increased demand for eco-friendly rides.

Maximizing Your Uber Earnings

• Choose the right category: Selecting the best Uber ride type based on your vehicle and preferences can help you earn more.

• Maintain a high rating: Good service leads to better passenger feedback, which can qualify you for premium categories.

• Keep your vehicle in top condition: Regular maintenance ensures a smooth ride and prevents unexpected issues that could lead to lower ratings or downtime.

• Consider multiple categories: If your vehicle qualifies, signing up for more than one category (e.g., UberX and Uber Comfort) increases your chances of getting more trips.

• Take advantage of peak hours: Driving during busy times (e.g., weekends, events, and rush hours) maximizes earning potential with surge pricing.

Final Thoughts

As an Uber driver in Australia, understanding the different ride types can help you optimize your earnings and provide better service to passengers. Whether you're driving a standard sedan, a luxury vehicle, or an eco-friendly car, there’s an Uber category that fits your needs. Select the right ride type for your vehicle, stay updated with Uber's policies, and enjoy the journey of being your own boss!

About Splend

Splend makes car ownership easier, more affordable and more accessible for rideshare drivers by building everything they need to earn more and pay less into one affordable weekly payment. It’s smooth driving, with no surprises and the lowest total ownership cost you’ll find – which is how car ownership for rideshare drivers should be.

For more information about Splend, make an appointment and drop by to your local Splend Hub, email us, or say hello on 1800 775 363.