If you’ve been thinking about joining the rideshare economy—whether it’s Uber, Lyft, DoorDash, or Instacart—there’s never been a better time to get behind the wheel. Oregon, especially cities like Portland, Salem, and Eugene, offers a thriving gig economy with consistent demand for drivers.
But where do you begin?
Here’s your step-by-step guide to getting started as a rideshare driver in Oregon—including the legal requirements, tools you need, and how services like EcoDriven can help you hit the road faster and smarter.
1. Meet the Basic Requirements
Before you can start driving, you’ll need to check off these essentials:
- Be at least 21 years old (some platforms require 25+ for rentals)
- Have a valid U.S. driver’s license
- Own or rent an eligible vehicle
- Have at least 1 year of licensed driving experience (3 years if under 25)
- Pass a background check and driving record check
- Provide proof of auto insurance
Each platform (Uber, Lyft, DoorDash, etc.) may have slightly different policies, so double-check their driver requirements.
2. Choose the Right Platform for You
Here’s a quick breakdown of popular platforms in Oregon:
- Uber & Lyft – Passenger rideshare, ideal for flexible day/night shifts.
- DoorDash, Uber Eats, Grubhub – Food delivery, good for short trips.
- Instacart, Shipt – Grocery shopping + delivery, great for multi-taskers.
- Amazon Flex – Parcel delivery, offers scheduled blocks and consistent pay.
You can apply to more than one platform to maximize your earnings.
3. Get a Vehicle (Even If You Don’t Own One)
Don’t have a car? No problem.
EcoDriven offers hybrid rental vehicles specifically for rideshare and delivery drivers. Our rentals are:
- Fuel-efficient (great for maximizing profits)
- Ready-to-go with insurance options
- Flexible with weekly or monthly rental terms
With rates starting at $315/week, it’s an affordable way to get on the road—especially if your personal vehicle is unavailable, or you want to avoid wear and tear on your own car.
4. Submit Your Application
Once you’ve chosen your platform and gathered your documents:
- Sign up via the app or website.
- Upload your documents (license, insurance, etc.).
- Consent to a background check.
- Complete vehicle inspection (if required).
- Get activated—this can take a few days to a week.
Tip: Apps like Uber and Lyft may provide vehicle inspections at no cost in larger cities like Portland.
5. Optimize Your Setup
Before your first trip, make sure you’re ready:
- Get a phone mount and charger.
- Use navigation apps like Waze or Google Maps.
- Keep snacks, water, and sanitizer on hand.
- Sign up for driver forums or Facebook groups to stay informed.
6. Know Your Local Laws
In Oregon, rideshare drivers must:
- Display trade dress (Uber/Lyft stickers) while driving
- Adhere to city-specific TNC regulations (Portland has its own permit rules)
- Report earnings to the IRS and pay quarterly taxes if self-employed
You may also want to register as a sole proprietor or LLC for tax benefits.
7. Start Driving—and Keep Improving
The first week might feel overwhelming, but you’ll quickly get the hang of it. Track your mileage, pay attention to peak times, and use driver incentives wisely.
And most importantly—drive safely and professionally. Your ratings and reviews directly affect your earnings and eligibility.
Final Thoughts
Becoming a rideshare or delivery driver in Oregon is a flexible, income-friendly path—especially when you have the right support.
EcoDriven helps drivers get started faster by offering clean, hybrid vehicles with low fuel costs and rental terms that fit your goals. Whether you’re driving full-time or part-time, we make sure you’re always ready to hit the road.
Need a car to start earning today?
Visit ecodrivenrentals.com or call 503-381-9382