Today I want to introduce you to Harry, the founder and owner of The Rideshare Guy blog and podcast.
Harry began driving with Uber and Lyft in 2014 while working full-time as an aerospace engineer. He noticed drivers needed better information and resources, so he launched his website to help fellow drivers. Over time he left his engineering job to focus full-time on the site, which now provides practical guidance, industry insights, and tools that help drivers increase their rideshare income. He continues to drive regularly.
In this interview you’ll learn:
- How Harry got started in rideshare driving.
- How Uber and Lyft pay driver-partners.
- Whether there’s still demand for more drivers.
- The main advantages and drawbacks of driving for rideshare companies.
- What type of car you typically need.
This interview is packed with useful, actionable information for anyone considering driving for a rideshare platform.
Related content:
- 75+ Ways To Make Extra Money
- 12 Work From Home Jobs That Can Earn You $1,000+ Each Month
- The Important Reasons You Need Multiple Streams of Income
- 43 Extreme Things People Have Done To Make Money
- Get Paid $30 – $50 Per Hour To Pick Up Trash
I asked readers what questions they wanted me to pose, and below are those questions along with a few of mine about becoming a rideshare driver. Follow the original publisher on Facebook to submit questions for future interviews.
Note: You can become a driver-partner with Uber through the company’s sign-up process.
1. Please give us a background on yourself and this side hustle.
I started rideshare driving with Uber and Lyft in 2014 and soon after launched The Rideshare Guy. Since then I’ve written extensively, driven regularly, and spoken with thousands of drivers and industry professionals. My goal has been to deliver unbiased, practical advice that helps drivers make better decisions. I started the site out of curiosity about the industry and because I enjoy testing new ways to earn—especially when the work fits naturally into daily life.
2. What exactly are Uber and Lyft? Can you explain this for those who are unfamiliar?
Uber and Lyft are platforms that connect riders with drivers using smartphone apps. Riders open the app to request a ride, the app locates nearby drivers and sends a request (a “ping”) to an available driver, and the driver picks up the rider and takes them to their destination. Payments and tracking are managed through the apps, and drivers can set their own schedules—making rideshare a flexible side hustle or part-time business.
3. How much can a driver expect to make?
Pay varies widely by city, time of day, demand, and individual driver strategy. I usually recommend viewing rideshare driving as a flexible side gig rather than a full-time solution unless you plan for the added miles, wear and tear, and business-like expenses. For many, it’s a reliable way to earn extra money on their own schedule.
4. How does a driver get paid?
Drivers receive weekly direct deposits for their earnings and can review earnings statements within the app. Both companies also offer options to access cash sooner: Lyft’s Instant Pay and Uber’s Instant Pay let drivers cash out earnings more frequently, often to a debit card.
5. Is there still room for more drivers? How many drivers are there now?
There’s room for drivers in many markets, especially in large cities and areas where rideshare services are relatively new. Some local saturation can occur—seasonal peaks like summer when students drive more may reduce earnings—but overall, many people still find value in trying rideshare as a side hustle.
6. Should a person sign up for both Uber and Lyft?
Yes. I recommend signing up for both if possible. Riders often prefer one app or the other based on price or promotions, so having access to both platforms increases the number of trip requests you’ll receive and helps smooth out slow periods.
7. What are the positives and negatives of being a driver?
Positives include flexibility, meeting interesting people, and running your own small business. Many drivers appreciate the entrepreneurial aspects—managing income, expenses, and schedules. Negatives include vehicle wear and tear, the occasional rude or disruptive passenger, and variable earnings. Most trips, however, are uneventful and pleasant.
8. What are common expenses?
Major expenses are fuel, insurance, regular maintenance, and increased wear and tear. Other costs include car washes and cleaning supplies. While cleaning supplies are usually a one-time purchase that lasts, maintenance and replacement parts can be significant depending on mileage.
9. Will my current car be okay, or do I need something specific?
Requirements vary by city, but generally your vehicle should be 15 years old or newer and have four doors with functioning seatbelts. Cleaner, well-maintained cars with working heat and air conditioning also tend to earn better ratings and more tips from riders.
10. What’s the craziest or funniest driver story you’ve experienced?
One memorable ride was picking up an elderly gentleman in Los Angeles whose nephew had set up the Uber app for him. It was his very first ride. We spent 45 minutes talking about his life, his reasons for being in LA, and how rideshare would change his independence. It was inspiring to see the app open new possibilities for him.
11. Any final tips for someone who wants to become a driver?
If you’re considering driving, take a trip as a passenger first. Ride with a local driver and ask them about their experience: what they like, what driving is like in your city, and how passengers usually behave. That firsthand perspective is invaluable. Also, read reliable resources and follow trusted industry blogs to stay informed about best practices and local rules.
Are you interested in becoming an Uber or Lyft driver?
Recommended reading: 14 Ways To Make Money Driving