Lyft & Uber Driver Guides – All Cities

Below are Lyft and Uber driving guides for various cities. We include a few hotspots and traffic tips in each guide, as well as the top driving hours.

If you think something should be in the guide, or that we should do a guide for your town, drop us a line and let us know.

Uber Lyft Driver Minneapolis Guide

Minneapolis Lyft And Uber Driving Guide

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Minneapolis is the 16th largest metropolitan area in the United States. Consisting of some 3.6 million residents, the Twin Cities Metro is not only the economic hub of Minnesota but is one of the largest economic centers in the Midwest. Since the introduction of Uber and Lyft to the region in 2012, rideshare has been a mainstay of the Minneapolis scene.

However, with the average spent on Lyft and Uber in Minneapolis at $34 per month, compared to $56 in Atlanta and $84 in New York, it is important to know where and when to drive if you want to drive profitably. The difference in where and when you start driving can be the difference between a busy night and a low fares outing.

 

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Best Places To Drive Lyft & Uber In Minneapolis

Minneapolis has worked hard to be accommodating to Lyft and Uber. Per Minnesota Public Radio, in 2018 there were more than 5,000 Uber and Lyft drivers cleared to serve the Minneapolis-Saint Paul Airport, compared to just 600 taxis. This willingness to embrace ridesharing gives drivers advantages in pick-ups, particularly downtown.

On weekend nights, for example, 1st and Hennepin Avenues between 3rd and 6th Streets are closed to regular traffic. Rideshare drivers can enter the area at 6th and 1st and 6th and Hennepin. It is important that the vehicle is wearing its proper trade dress on both the front and back windshields.

During daylight hours, the best places to drive are downtown, Dinkytown, and Bloomington.

Downtown: The heart of the Minneapolis business scene, it goes without saying that transporting work commuters can be lucrative. Popular spots include Target Center, Hennepin Avenue, the Metro Transit stations, Nicollet Mall, the Hennepin County office complex.

Parking and traffic can be challenging, particularly during rush hour. When driving downtown during prime hours, it is important to set aside enough time to handle the traffic or to learn how to navigate alternative routes.

Dinkytown: Dinkytown is populated by University of Minnesota students and recent alumni. North of the University of Minnesota Twin Cities East Bank campus, Dinkytown is usually buzzing in the day with both students traveling to and from class and tourists.

Al’s Breakfast, arguably the smallest restaurant in the state, and the Loring Pasta Bar—which is in the building where Bob Dylan lived—are all in the neighborhood. During the University of Minnesota football season, weekend demand to and from Dinkytown is a must for rideshare drivers.

Bloomington: While technically not part of Minneapolis, the affluent suburb of Bloomington is home to the Best Buy, HealthPartners, Toro, and Ceridian corporate offices, the Mall of America, and the Minneapolis-Saint Paul Airport. As Bloomington is a large city in its own right—the fifth largest in the state—it is advisable to choose a spot, such as the airport, to work instead of roaming. The airport uses a “first-in, first-out” system, meaning that drivers need to enter a designated waiting area in the “FIFO zone” to receive priority queuing for airport passengers.

Bde Maka Ska: Formerly Lake Calhoun, Bde Maka Ska is the largest lake in Minneapolis. Surrounded by city parks and walking trails, the lake is a popular destination year-round.

Lyft driver guide minneapolis
Bde Maka Ska Lake

 

At night, the best spots are:

Target Field, Target Center, Xcel Energy Center, and U.S. Bank Stadium: Minneapolis is a city for hardcore sports fans. Whether it’s the Vikings, the Timberwolves, the Twins, or the Lynx, Minneapolis has a professional team for everyone. It is important for rideshare drivers to know the game schedules for all four stadiums in order to maximize pickups.

Uptown: The hub of young professional and hipster life in the city, Uptown is the place to be for the 18- to 35-year-old demographic. Popular spots are Calhoun Square, Cowboy Slim’s, Stella’s Fish Café, Sushi Tango, the VFW Post, and the Green Mill.

Dinkytown: The college students will want to go out and party. Safe bets are the Varsity, Fraternity Row, and 14 Avenue SE.

Downtown/Hennepin Avenue: Home of the Saloon, the Orpheum theater, First Avenue, and the Butcher & the Boar, driving Hennepin at night can be challenging, but rewarding.

Warehouse District: The home of Target Field, the Warehouse District is full of coffeehouse, museums, restaurants, and boutiques. Popular spots are the Fulton Brewing Taproom, Gay 90’s, Cowboy Jack’s, the Pourhouse, and Bar La Grassa.

It should be noted that not every neighborhood/area will be busy all the time. Especially during the winter, a driver may find more fares in the residential neighborhoods than staking out the commercial ones. Good residential areas to try are Lyn-Lake, CARAG, and Northeast Minneapolis.

When to Drive

The best time to drive depends on the area:

Bloomington: 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday to Friday and 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. weekends for the Minneapolis-Saint Paul Airport, and 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. every day for the Mall of America.

Downtown: 6 a.m. to 9 a.m. and midnight to 3 a.m. Monday through Friday, 9 p.m. to 3 a.m. Saturday and Sunday. Two hours before and after performances at the Orpheum and First Avenue, and two hours before and after events at Target Field, Target Center, and the Xcel Energy Center.

Warehouse District: 9 p.m. to 3 a.m. every day.

Dinkytown: 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 9 p.m. to 3 a.m. Monday through Saturday.

The Metro Transit Stations (Target field, MSP, Mall of America): 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. every day.

Uptown: 9 p.m. to 3 a.m. Monday through Saturday.

For a full-time driver, a good strategy is to start with the downtown commutes and work toward the airport.

The airport is busiest Tuesday through Thursday, with peak times at 7 a.m., 9 a.m., 1 p.m., 5 p.m., and 7 p.m.

It is typically better to drive rideshare on weekends than weekdays, but if a driver is willing to show some flexibility, it is possible to keep your queue full. It is important that, before you drive, you are familiar with the city and are comfortable navigating without a map.

Uber vs. Lyft In Minneapolis

Uber and Lyft both appeared in Minneapolis roughly at the same time. Both offer various bonuses and incentives for new and existing drivers. As a driver, you tend to wind up favoring one or the other. However, many Minneapolis drivers sign up for both Lyft and Uber and alternate sign-ins based on current rates.

 

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Cleveland Uber & Lyft Driver Guide

Cleveland Lyft & Uber Driver Guide

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As one of Ohio’s largest cities, Cleveland has much to offer those who want to make money as a rideshare driver. Whether you work with Lyft or Uber or drive full-time or part-time, you have the potential to make some serious cash in the Cleveland area if you know how to drive efficiently.

Below is a quick guide for where and when to drive Uber and Lyft in Cleveland. In addition to telling you what you need to know about Cleveland’s busiest areas, we’ll also provide some driving tips and shortcuts to help you better navigate the city during your rideshare shifts.

 

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When and Where to Drive Lyft & Uber in Cleveland

If you want to maximize your earnings, try to drive during peak hours. Like most major cities, Cleveland’s best times to drive are during the morning and evening commute hours and on the weekends during the hours when people are heading out to enjoy the nightlife. Here are some tips for when to drive Lyft and Uber in Cleveland:

  • Monday through Friday, from 7–10 a.m. and 5–7 p.m.: Take advantage of morning and evening commuter requests as people travel to and from downtown Cleveland.
  • Weekdays, 6 p.m.–4 a.m.: Though there isn’t as much demand during weekday evenings, you can find more ride requests downtown near Progressive Field, University Heights, and West Lakewood.
  • Fridays and Saturdays from 7 p.m. –3 a.m.: This is the weekend rush, when you can take advantage of nightlife traffic in Downtown, Lakeview, University Heights, Cleveland Heights, West Lakewood, and West Park.
  • Sundays from 10 a.m.–2 p.m.: During this time, there is high demand in the Lakeview, Cleveland Heights, and Ohio City areas.
Uber Cleveland Hotspots
Cleveland Uber & Lyft Hotspots

Also, be sure to check out Lyft’s 2018 Cleveland Lyftie Awards. Places like Punch Bowl Social and Town Hall made the list last year. The Lyftie locations tend to be super busy with Lyft riders.

Cleveland Hopkins International Airport: What You Need to Know

You don’t have to be an Uber or Lyft driver for very long before you receive a ride request to or from the Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE). If you want your pick-ups and drop-offs to go smoothly, follow the rules of the airport and navigate to the correct areas when dropping off passengers and waiting for ride requests.

When you are on the airport property, keep the Lyft or Uber driver app up until you have exited the airport. Both Uber and Lyft operate on a first-in, first-out basis at the airport. This means that the first driver in the rideshare waiting area of the airport will be the first to receive airport pick-up requests. If you turn the app off, you will lose your place in the queue.

When dropping off passengers at CLE, you can take them to the appropriate departure gate. If you would then like the opportunity to receive a trip request afterward, you’ll need to keep your app up and proceed to the rideshare waiting area, which is located at 20001 Brookpark Road.

Cleveland Uber & Lyft Airport Pickups
Cleveland Lyft Airport Map

Once you are in the rideshare waiting area of the Cleveland Hopkins International Airport, you will be able to receive ride requests. After you receive a trip request, you can then navigate to the airport terminal. The pickup location will be on your left. (Just follow the signs for “Rideshare Services.”)

Cleveland Uber & Lyft Driving Tips and Shortcuts

If you want to maximize your earnings (and your ratings) while driving Uber and Lyft in Cleveland, it’s important you know how to navigate the city and get around any high traffic areas. Here are just a few helpful shortcuts for avoiding traffic throughout the city:

  • When traveling near University Circle in the afternoon, avoid hitting heavy traffic by taking Chester Avenue heading west, turning left onto East 55th Street, turning right onto Prospect Avenue, and getting on I-90W to I-77S. From there, you can stay on I-77S or take I-490W to avoid Innerbelt traffic.
  • If you hit morning traffic on I-77N, exit I-77 at Fleet Avenue, turn left onto Fleet, right onto Independence Road and left onto Broadway. This will take you all the way to East 14th and East 9th Streets.
  • To avoid the MetroHealth curve and Innerbelt traffic on I-71N, take 480E to 176N to 490W to Broadway.
  • To avoid MetroHealth curve and Innerbelt traffic on I-71S, take I-77S to I-490W to SR 176S to I-480W to I-71S.
  • If you’re on the West Side heading south or east of downtown, take I-90E to 176S to I-480E, staying on 480 to head east or exiting on I77S to head south.
  • When taking passengers from downtown to the western suburbs, you can avoid traffic by staying in the left lane of I-90E, which then becomes I-490E. Exit at Broadway Avenue, turning left. This will get you to East 14th and East 9th Streets.

Now that you know when and where to drive Lyft and Uber in Cleveland, it’s time to start making the most of your rideshare driving shifts. Use the driving tips and shortcuts above when you need them to avoid traffic and provide a smoother pick-up and drop-off experience.

For new drivers, Lyft offers a sign up bonus earnings guarantee. Check out our Lyft sign up bonus page for more information.

 

Superbowl Uber & Lyft Driving

Driving Lyft Or Uber Superbowl Week – Atlanta 2019

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image credit: EQRoy / Shutterstock.com

It’s no secret that major sporting events and concerts can make for a lucrative Lyft or Uber shift. When 75,000 people try to leave a concert at the same time, there’s going to be a heavy demand for Lyft and Uber drivers.

While the spike in demand from a regular Braves game often lasts less than an hour, Super Bowl week in Atlanta should provide an overall increase in demand for most of the week before the game.

Atlanta expects more than 1 million people will visit the city in the week and a half before the Super Bowl this year, with about 150,000 guests packing into the city the weekend of the big game.

Driving Super Bowl Week – What To Expect

Overall demand for Lyft and Uber drivers is likely to be as high as it has ever been in the city. Atlanta Deputy Police Chief Scott Kreher had the following suggestion for those attending the SuperBowl in Atlanta

“MARTA, MARTA, MARTA, ride-share or your sneakers,” said Kreher. So, if you drive Uber or Lyft in the Atlanta area, you should expect Super Bowl week to be pretty busy, but the traffic to be worse than usual.

And although the city will be packed and rideshare demand high, it’s important to be aware of some things to maximize your earning potential and avoid some rookie pitfalls.

Here’s a few tips to help you drive Lyft & Uber profitably during Super Bowl week.

Be Aware Of Street Closures

Be sure to check out the Atlanta Super Bowl site road closures page to see the special Super Bowl detours and closures around Mercedes Benz Stadium and Centennial Park. Some closures have already started.

The road closures that will be in effect are listed below.

From January 21st:

  • Baker St. NW will be closed between Centennial Olympic Park Dr. NW and Luckie St. NW.
  • Mitchell St. SW will be closed between MLK Jr. Dr. SW (South) to Elliot St SW.
  • Mangum St. will be closed between Markham St to Foundry St.
  • MLK Jr. Dr. SW (South) will be closed between Northside Dr. NW to Centennial Olympic Park Dr NW

From January 23rd

  • Andrew Young International Blvd. NW will be closed between Marietta St. NW and Centennial Olympic Park Dr. NW.
Super Bowl Road Closures
Source: atlsuperbowl53.com

 

Super Bowl LIII – February 3 – Day of Game Closures

From Saturday Evening, February 2 through morning of Monday, February 4

  • Northside Dr. NW will be closed between Ivan Allen Jr. Blvd NW and MLK Jr. Dr. SW (South)
Super Bowl Gameday Street Closures
Source: atlsuperbowl53.com

 

Where To Drop Off / Pick Up Lyft & Uber Passengers Around The Super Bowl

Starting January 26th, Uber & Lyft drivers should drop off and pick up their passengers on Centennial Olympic Park Drive, in front of the CNN Center.

On February 3 (game day), drivers will also be able to drop off (no pick ups) at the Yellow Lot, North of the stadium,

Super Bowl Rideshare Promotions, Streaks, and Bonuses

Both Uber & Lyft will likely run promotions and bonuses during Superbowl week. Expect a few hourly guarantees, quests and ride streaks in the week leading up to the game.

However, don’t chase the surge or prime time. Both companies will look to have a lot of drivers out on the road in the coming weeks. So, with the exception of right after the game, price surges will likely be high, but short lived.

And surge pricing and prime time aren’t what they used to be anyway. It’s better to concentrate on doing rides safely and efficiently, instead of shooting for multiple unicorn rides (and wasting gas in the process) that you may or may not get.

Pro Tip – Drive Before Super Bowl Weekend

If possible, drive around the stadium and do a few rides before Super Bowl weekend, and certainly before game day itself.

Even though you may be familiar with the city, when a city closes major streets, and reroutes others, it can throw off even veteran drivers.

The Super Bowl is a mega event, and the weekend of the game, the area around Centennial Olympic Park will likely be as busy as it has been since the beginning of the rideshare era.

When you add to that multiple detours, as well as limited rideshare pick up and drop off spots, a little bit of advanced scouting couldn’t hurt.

Knowing how the road closures and detours around MB Stadium and Centennial Park are laid out will make for a smoother driving experience come the weekend. It also may allow you to scout out a few unofficial pick up and drop off spots that you can use on game day. Look for landmarks that passengers will be able to see (restaurants, hotels etc..).

Some veteran rideshare passengers have figured out it’s often easier to get picked up if they walk a few blocks away from a major event zone, say to the various hotels just east of Centennial Park. While you won’t be able to stop around there, the flow of traffic may be slightly better there, than right next to the stadium.

Mercedes Benz Stadium Atlanta - Super Bowl XIII
Image Credit: Revel Pix LLC / Shutterstock.com

 

Another Reason To Drive – The Week Before The Super Bowl Will Be Busy

Hundreds of thousands of people are coming to the Atlanta area in the days leading up to the game. There will be parties all over town, and people will be going out in numbers.

Now, this doesn’t mean demand will be off the charts on Thursday, January 31st at 2pm.

What it will mean is elevated overall demand in the Atlanta market in the week before the Super Bowl, and of course the day of the game.

And don’t forget about the Foo Fighters concert at Atlantic Station the evening before the game.

Driving Lyft Or Uber The Day Of The Super Bowl

Except for the parts that specifically reference Atlanta, this advice could apply to driving in most markets on Super Bowl Sunday in 2019.

Expect demand to start rising in the late morning (after 9am). Ride requests will likely come from the all over the city and burbs as people make their way downtown if they’re lucky enough to have a ticket, or more likely, to their friends house to watch the game. Unless you have a dropoff at the Super Bowl village itself, avoid the area as it will be incredibly crowded.

Don’t worry, you’ll probably get rides taking you there anyway. However, getting out of the area once you’re there will be difficult because of the detours and closures.

If possible, you want to stay east of Centennial Olympic Park (Sono or Old Fourth Ward) when you’re waiting for rides near the stadium. It will probably be slightly easier to navigate traffic, but to be clear, the whole downtown area will be very busy.

Find Alternative Drop Off Spots

Traffic will probably start to get worse as it gets closer to game time. If possible, during the week, scout out a couple of alternative drop off locations just outside the Super Bowl complex (a nearby hotel sometimes works).

Then, when you get a ride that drops off at the stadium, tell the passengers the traffic is pretty terrible at the Stadium, and suggest that they might get to the game faster if you dropped them off at one of the locations you scouted out earlier, that’s just a couple blocks away.

Use your best judgment as to whether to use this approach. Some passengers are going to want to be dropped off right in front no matter how long it takes!

Before The Game

Sunday mornings are often great times to drive anyway. There’s less traffic, and fewer Lyft and Uber drivers are on the road because many of them drove late the night before. Superbowl sunday should be no exception, but overall traffic should be slightly higher.

You can also expect to see a below average number of rideshare drivers on the road before 11am.

However, beware of super market runs where the customer asks you to wait. Lines will be pretty long at markets on game day. If you agree to wait, you could be sitting in a parking lot for 25 minutes for a 3 mile roundtrip ride – not profitable.

Through the afternoon leading up to the game, rideshare demand should be steady to above average, with rides taking you all over town. Bars in Buckhead, Piedmont Park, and other popular areas should be busy.

Be sure to check out our Atlanta Lyft & Uber Driver Guide for more hotspots.

During The Game

Once the game starts, expect a lull. While you might get someone switching houses at halftime, this is the time to grab a bite, and maybe watch some of the game.

Consider using somewhere in Sono or Old Fourth Ward as your staging area at this point, and after the game. It will be easier to find a place or two where you can pull over in these areas.

After The Big Game

If you plan on picking up someone from the Stadium after the Super Bowl, be prepared.

It will be incredibly crowded, and you should definitely call your passenger as soon as the request comes in, and confirm their location.

Hopefully, your passengers are at the designated pickup spot in front of the CNN center. If they are, great, go pick them up. If they’re not, try and determine their location, and whether you can pick them up there, or if there’s a better location they should meet you at for a faster ride out of the area.

And don’t forget about the day after the Super Bowl. All of those out of town visitors have to get home. So expect loads of airport runs the Monday after the game.

 

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Houston Uber Lyft Driver Guide

Houston Lyft & Uber Guide

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As the fourth most populous city in the United States, Houston has a healthy demand for rideshare services.

Whether working full-time or as a side gig, Lyft and Uber drivers in Houston can make some serious cash when driving during the busiest times of the week or picking up and dropping off riders at some of the city’s most popular destinations.

But if you want to maximize your earnings with Lyft or Uber, you need to know the ins and outs of being a rideshare driver in Houston. That’s why we’ve put together a helpful guide to driving Lyft and Uber in Houston. Below, you’ll find information on the best times and areas to pick up riders as well as some insider tips for avoiding traffic and getting to your destination as quickly as possible.

Best Areas to Drive Lyft and Uber in Houston

Some areas are more popular than others when it comes to rider demand. If you want to make the most out of your Lyft or Uber driving experience while maximizing your earnings, focus on the areas of town that will allow you to increase the number of rides and earn higher fares.

Downtown Area

One of the hottest spots in Houston is the downtown area, which boasts both an active business community and vibrant cultural scene. During the week, you have the opportunity to pick up riders traveling to and from work, but during the weekend, you can take advantage of those who are enjoying Houston’s downtown nightlife.

Here are just a few of the busiest venues that have high demand during special events:

  • Toyota Center
  • George R. Brown Convention Center
  • Discovery Green
  • Minute Maid Park

The Heights, Montrose and Rice Village

The charming, upscale Heights neighborhood is a great walking area, with wonderful restaurants, great architecture and nightlife, and the off kilter Art Car Museum.

Houston Uber Driver Guide - The Heights
Stephanie A Sellers / Shutterstock.com

 

Montrose is an eclectic area where you can find riders who just visited the museum district, an art gallery or one of the areas many antique stores.

Rice Village is a great shopping and dining area just West of Rice University. If you’re looking for a lot of short hops to satisfy a Lyft or Uber bonus requirement, this is a good spot to try.

TDECU Stadium

Texans love their football, and this is never more apparent than on a University of Houston gameday. As thousands of fans gather to tailgate and watch the Cougars play, rideshare drivers have the opportunity to make some serious cash. The designated pickup and drop-off area is located on the west side of Calhoun Road just off of University Drive.

Smart Financial Centre at Sugar Land

Smart Financial Centre at Sugar Land is another popular event venue for those living in Houston. From concerts and cultural events to comedy shows and dance performances, there is something going on every week at this venue. To avoid heavy traffic during special events, both Uber and Lyft drivers should navigate to the designated rideshare pickup zone, which is outside the box office on Lexington Boulevard.

NRG Park

NRG Park includes the NRG Stadium, NRG Center, NRG Arena, and NRG Astrodome. With 5.6 million people visiting NRG Park every year for a variety of different events, this is certainly a hot spot for Uber and Lyft drivers. When traveling to NRG Stadium during Texans games, traffic can be a challenge. Use the designated lots for rideshare drivers to pick up and drop off passengers before and after the game, located on the right side NRG Parkway.

Houston Lyft driver NRG Stadium
Image Credit: digidreamgrafix / Shutterstock.com

 

Best Times to Drive Lyft and Uber in Houston

The most successful Lyft and Uber drivers focus on driving during the busiest times of the day to take advantage of Uber’s Surge and Lyft’s Prime Time, which allow drivers to earn higher fares during peak rider demand. If you want to maximize your earnings and complete more rides during your shift, focus on these peak hours for Houston:

Morning Rush Hour: Monday – Friday from 6-9 a.m.

Lyft and Uber drivers can expect countless requests during morning rush hour, especially in the downtown and Galleria areas. Many riders would rather rideshare to work then deal with parking costs. This is also when you’ll experience high traffic volumes in Houston, so check traffic and identify alternate routes before you head out.

Afternoon Rush Hour: Monday – Friday from 3-8 p.m.

There is also a high demand for Lyft and Uber drivers during afternoon rush hour in the downtown and Galleria areas as riders are heading home from work. Again, this is also when you can expect to encounter peak traffic times, so plan accordingly by knowing your route ahead of time.

Weekend Late Night: Friday and Saturday from 5 p.m.-3 a.m.

The nightlife rush in Houston can start as early at 5 p.m. on Friday and Saturday afternoon, and rider demand usually continues on through 3 a.m. The highest demand areas include downtown, midtown, and Montrose.

Uber and Lyft Houston Airport Drop-Offs and Pickups

With two major airports in the Houston area, there’s a good chance you’ll be picking up or dropping off riders at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) or William P. Hobby Airport (HOU). When dropping riders off at IAH or HOU, you can proceed to the arrivals area of their designated terminal.

When picking up riders at IAH or HOU, you will need to proceed to the designated rideshare waiting area. For both Uber and Lyft, there is a first-in-first-out policy when waiting for requests. This means that the first drivers who enter the rideshare lot will be the first drivers to receive a request. Here are the pick-up instructions for each airport:

  • IAH – The rideshare waiting area for both Uber and Lyft is located near Lee Road and Will Clayton Parkway. Once you have received a passenger request, you will proceed to one of the four designated pickup points at the terminal.
  • HOU – The rideshare waiting area for both Uber and Lyft is located off of S. Rent Car Road. Once you have received a passenger request, you will proceed to Pickup Zone 5 at the terminal.

Here are some other important things to keep in mind when picking up passengers:

  • You can lose your place in the queue if you leave the waiting area, turn off your driver app, or cancel multiple rides.
  • If a rider cancels the ride, you will maintain your place in the queue as long as you proceed back to the waiting area.
  • If there are no drivers in the waiting area, the trip requests will be sent to other Uber or Lyft drivers in the area.

Navigating Houston Traffic: Route Tips and Shortcuts for Uber and Lyft Drivers

When it comes to getting from the pickup to drop-off location as quickly as possible, you’ll need to know the most efficient routes and shortcuts in Houston.

Houston Uber driver guide

 

Keep these in mind during your next Houston Uber or Lyft driving shift:

  • To avoid traffic congestion on 610, take Hardy Street to Cavalcade and turn right to get on I-45. Alternatively, you can also take the left access to US-59.
  • To avoid traffic and slow drive times, avoid the West Belt at all costs, and instead take San Felipe when traveling to Galleria or Downtown.
  • To get downtown faster, avoid 610. Instead take Hardy Street, which turns into Elysian and then Crawford. Turn onto La Branch and you’ll end up on the east side of downtown.
  • If you’re trying to get to HOU quickly, bypass the Gulf Freeway or I-45 by taking SH-288 southbound to the 610 south loop eastbound ramp. Then take a right on Telephone and onto Airport Boulevard to get directly to the terminal.

Whether you are driving Uber or Lyft (or even both), there’s never been a better time to be a rideshare driver in the city of Houston. With an abundance of riders both local and visiting, rideshare services are always in demand. Use some of the tips above to get the most out of your rideshare driving experience and maximize your earnings in Houston.

 

Looking For The Best Rideshare Company To Sign Up With?

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With Lyft, you can sign up to drive even if you don’t have a car!

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Lyft & Uber driver guide New York City

New York City Lyft & Uber Driver Guide

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New York City was Uber’s first expansion outside of San Francisco, landing in the city in 2011. Lyft came on board just a few years later in 2014. Today, the market for Uber and Lyft drivers has exploded, with roughly 80,000 ridesharing vehicles in New York City.

There’s never been a better time to pick up a side gig driving Uber or Lyft in NYC. Whether you’re new to the business or you’re already an old rideshare pro, you can use this guide below to get the most out of driving Lyft or Uber in New York City. From what you need to get started to the busiest times, best locations, and helpful driving shortcuts, the tips below will help you make more money while spending less time in gridlock.

Note: Lyft (and Uber) have stopped accepting new drivers in New York City due to the recent rideshare law changes. However, you can still sign up to drive for Via in New York City.

 

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What Are the New Uber and Lyft Guidelines for New York City?

  • New cap regulates how many operational licenses are granted to potential Uber and Lyft drivers.
  • Cap in place for one year (through August 2019).
  • TLC will study the effects of ride-hail services in the city during the year-long cap.

As the city places its one-year limit on rideshare licenses, it becomes even more important for current Uber and Lyft drivers to understand the busiest areas of New York City and how to navigate the city streets quickly and safely.

Best Areas to Drive With Lyft or Uber in New York City

If you’re driving Uber or Lyft in New York City, the busiest areas overall are:

  • Barclays Center
  • Citi Field
  • JFK (Terminal 4)
  • LGA
  • Madison Square Garden
  • Yankee Stadium

Uber and Lyft both operate in the five boroughs of New York—Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Staten Island—but Manhattan and Brooklyn see the most traffic. The Bronx is sure to have ride-hailing passengers at Fordham University (during school semesters) and Yankee Stadium.

Busiest Drive Times in Manhattan

The best areas and times in the city’s busiest borough (Manhattan) to maximize your Uber and Lyft income are:

Morning rush: 6 a.m.–10 a.m.

  • East Village
  • Grand Central Terminal
  • Pennsylvania Station
  • Upper East Side
  • Upper West Side

Evening rush: 5 p.m.–8 p.m.

  • Midtown
  • Financial District
  • Grand Central Terminal
  • Pennsylvania Station

Weekend rush: Thursday–Saturday nights after 9 p.m.

  • East Village
  • Lower East Side
  • West Village

Busiest Drive Times in Brooklyn

The most popular locations in Brooklyn for Uber and Lyft drivers are the same during the morning and evening traffic rushes.

Morning rush: 8 a.m.–10 a.m.

Evening rush: 5 p.m.–8 p.m.

Weekend rush: Friday-Saturday nights after 9 p.m.

  • Williamsburg
  • Downtown Brooklyn
  • DUMBO
  • Fort Greene
  • Cobble Hill
  • Prospect Heights

Uber and Lyft drivers in Queens should spend time in Jackson Heights, Long Island City, and Flushing. Staten Island drivers will find their next passenger at Wagner College or Forest Avenue in West New Brighton—super popular on the weekends thanks to the unique bars and restaurants that line the streets.

One of the busiest Uber and Lyft areas for New York City is by the Staten Island Ferry. Each day, hundreds of people commute to and from Manhattan via the ferry and need a ride once they arrive. The ferry runs every 15-30 minutes and takes about 25 minutes to go across the water.

You can expect the busiest times for people to get off the ferry at St. George Terminal between 5:25 p.m. and 7:15 p.m.

Riders will need transportation to St. George Terminal each weekday morning from 6:30 a.m.–8:30 a.m. Here is a complete schedule for the Staten Island Ferry.

Uber vs. Lyft in New York City

Wondering whether you should drive Uber or Lyft? The good news is you can work on both rideshare apps simultaneously. According to a report by the New School Center for New York City Affairs and the Center on Wage and Employment Dynamics, the median net hourly earnings (after expenses) for Uber drivers are $14.17, and the median net hourly earnings (after expenses) for Lyft drivers are $13.85. How much you make on Lyft or Uber in New York City will depend on how much you drive, where you pick up trips, and how efficient you are with your time. Earnings for drivers on Lyft Lux/XL and Uber Select/XL are generally higher.

In terms of sign up bonuses, only Lyft currently offers sign up bonuses. Instead of bonuses, Uber switched to offering new driver earnings guarantees in early 2017.

You may also want to check out our guide on Via, another rideshare company that operates in New York City. Like Uber, they offer earnings guarantees.

Lyft Uber Driver Guide New York
Luciano Mortula - LGM / Shutterstock.com

 

Digital Tools to Help Uber and Lyft Drivers in NYC

Construction and road closures in New York City are ever-changing. Partner road work with regular Manhattan traffic, and you have a recipe for long wait times and extended routes. A few helpful tools to avoid (heavier than normal) congestion in NYC include:

Gridlock Sam’s Twitter feed: This former NYC traffic commissioner and columnist at the New York Daily News began his professional career as a New York City taxi driver, so his alerts about road closures, parking changes, and detours are legit.

Waze: Designed to help you avoid traffic hazards, the Waze app is a navigational aid that’s easy to read and alerts you to traffic accidents, police activity, and blocked roadways. The information is hyper-local and delivered in real time.

Google Maps: While Waze helps to warn you of potential delays, Google Maps is the go-to for routes and backup routes. You can also use the app to see how busy a particular area is (helping you find potential riders).

NYC Driving Shortcuts and Tips

Traffic in NYC can be overwhelming, to say the least. Though you should generally take the navigation route provided on the app, sometimes it makes more sense to opt for an alternate route that will get the passenger there faster. Use these shortcuts for New York City Uber and Lyft drivers to help you avoid traffic clusters that can slow you down and hinder your ability to make more cash:

Avoid going through Central Park during rush hour traffic, especially on 72nd Street.

If you are far enough north, you can take 110th Street as a quick route to and from the East side.

If you’ve hit traffic on your way to the JFK Airport, you can take a back route through Brooklyn to save time: Bushwick to Pennsylvania to Atlantic to Conduit Avenue.

When you have a passenger that is going downtown and you’re halfway between the FDR and West Side Highway, take FDR, as it tends to be a slightly longer route with a typically faster drive time.

When you are traveling uptown from 14th Street or above, use 1st Avenue.

If your goal is to stick around the uptown area during the day, avoid 8th Avenue and instead take 10th Avenue uptown for 40 to 50 blocks.

If you’re heading to the Upper East Side from the West after 9 p.m., try taking 56th Street, as traffic tends to be lighter here.

Steps to Drive for Uber or Lyft In NYC

Unlike other municipalities, New York City requires Uber and Lyft (and all other ride-hailing drivers) to acquire a TLC license. Here are the steps to obtain your TLC license:

  • Submit a TLC application and payment.
  • Obtain a Class E or CDL license. A certified abstract is required from your license state if different than New York.
  • Complete the TLC-required medical exam.
  • Complete the TLC driving course.
  • Complete the TLC wheelchair accessible vehicle course.
  • Complete the TLC 3 day for-hire vehicle (FHV) course. (Course fees are $175 and the final exam is $75.)
  • Pass a drug test at one of 7 TLC-approved testing centers.
  • Get fingerprinted.

Applicants can complete some of the courses free of charge at Uber’s Greenlight Hub in Long Island City. Lyft also has an office at the same location. Uber also offers assistance by appointment at their offices in Long Island City, the Bronx, or Brooklyn.

Despite the city’s limitations, Uber and Lyft are very busy giving rides to visitors and residents of New York City’s five boroughs. Lyft is currently offering a sign up bonus for new drivers, while Uber offers sign up earnings guarantees.

Driving for Uber or Lyft is a great way to make extra cash. It’s also a unique way to explore the hidden areas of your city and learn new things about the place you call home. If you’re debating which rideshare company you should drive for, check out our comparison article, but keep in mind, you can drive for both.

 

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Atlanta Uber Driver Guide

The Atlanta Lyft & Uber Driver Guide

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Uber launched in Atlanta in 2012 and Lyft wasn’t far behind, with drivers coming on board just a year later. With Atlanta’s busy airport, high-energy nightlife, and bustling shopping and restaurant scene, ride-hailing companies just make sense.

Whether you’re just beginning your Uber or Lyft driving side gig in Atlanta or you’re an expert at secondary roads and navigating the Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport, we have some driving tips to help you make more money and spend less time in traffic.

Atlanta Hotspots for Uber and Lyft Drivers

When you’re logged on and ready to make cash, there are a few popular ride spots in Atlanta. Depending on the time of day or night you drive, head to these hotspots to wait for a rider.

If you drive during the day:

  • Emory University
  • Georgia Tech
  • Lenox Mall
  • Perimeter Mall
  • Westin Peachtree Plaza

If you drive late at night:

  • Big Sky Buckhead
  • Dark Horse Tavern
  • RiRa Irish Pub
  • The Ivy
  • W Hotel Whiskey Park

If you drive on the weekend:

  • Atlantic Station
  • Buckhead Atlanta
  • Piedmont Park
  • Ponce City Market

The best hours for driving Uber or Lyft in Atlanta revolve around the morning and evening commute, weekend festivities, and the city’s spectacular nightlife. To get the most rides in the ATL, focus on weekdays from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.

The weekend is ripe with ride-hailing customers, especially before and after major sporting events or concerts and late-night socialite mingling (11 p.m. to 3 a.m.).

Atlanta is also home to the Hawks, Braves, and Falcons, so don’t forget about Suntrust Park, State Farm Arena, and the Mercedes-Benz Stadium on game days/nights.

Atlanta Lyft Driver Guide

 

Hartsfield–Jackson Makes Uber and Lyft Easier For Drivers

As you can imagine, the congestion around America’s busiest airport, Hartsfield–Jackson, can quickly build. Construction planned for the airport created a need for a central location for Uber and Lyft drivers picking up riders at the ATL airport.

In August 2017, Uber and Lyft drivers made the transition to picking up passengers in the North and South Economy lots of Hartsfield–Jackson. The lots are a relatively short walk from baggage claim, and the airport created a virtual guide for how each pickup area works. The pickup spots are slated to be a temporary fix until airport construction is complete, scheduled for early 2019.

Uber and Lyft Driver Pay in Atlanta

If you’re curious how much an Uber or Lyft driver makes working in Atlanta, these numbers should help you decide if you’re making enough as a current driver or if you want to pursue working for a ride-hailing company in the city.

  • Uber driver pay in Atlanta: Indeed puts the average Uber driver hourly earnings at about $15.54 an hour.
  • Lyft driver pay in Atlanta: Indeed reports the average Lyft driver pay in Atlanta is roughly $18.46 an hour. Glassdoor puts the annual Lyft driver salary at around $38,000.

While you may just be saving up for your next vacation with cash from your Uber or Lyft side gig, there’s no reason to not make as much as possible. If you’re interested in making more money as a rideshare driver in Atlanta, check out the tips below.

Uber and Lyft Driver Secrets for Atlanta

Atlanta is infamous for its busy traffic, which can make or break your Uber and Lyft profits. Similarly, while attractions and shopping centers are a natural hotspot for drivers, there are particularly busy areas only known to Atlanta rideshare drivers that have been in the city for a while. Keep these times and areas in mind when planning your rideshare shifts and routes:

Best Times to Pick Up Riders

  • Friday and Saturday nights from 5 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., north of I-20 is busy.
  • Typically, 8:30 to 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday nights is a slow time period, as most riders have already gotten to their destination.
  • To make the most of the morning crowds, start your trips around 4:30 a.m.
  • For the evening crowds, you’ll need to plan on working until just after 2 a.m. to make the most money.
  • The most consistently busy times during the week are Monday mornings from 4:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. and Thursday nights after 7 p.m.
  • To boost profitability, you may want to avoid morning and afternoon rush hour traffic unless there is significant surge pricing (above 1.8x).

Best Areas to Find Riders

Some of the busiest areas include bars in the Buckhead area, 12th and Crescent Avenue in Midtown, West Midtown, Edgewood, and Cheshire Bridge. Look out for significant surge pricing in these areas on Friday and Saturday nights until about 3:15 a.m.

While the Peachtree Boulevard corridor in Chamblee is busy, it’s also filled with fellow Uber and Lyft drivers—avoid using this area as a waiting spot for a trip because of the high volume of competition.

The northern suburbs of Atlanta—Peachtree City, Chamblee, and Alpharetta—can be profitable if you’re willing to travel outside the city.

Sandy Springs, Dunwoody, and up through the Cumming area will often yield longer trips with passengers who typically provide bigger tips.

Short-Cuts, Alternate Routes, and Other Driving Tips

Before you start taking rides, be sure to do a quick online search for road closures, construction, and traffic accidents so you can avoid these areas and find appropriate alternatives.

Morning rush hour typically runs from 4 to 10 a.m., with the busiest traffic starting around 6 or 7 a.m. Evening rush hour starts at about 3:30 p.m. and goes until about 7:30 p.m. If possible, avoid busy highways during these times.

To avoid Interstate 285, try taking these alternate routes: Forest Parkway/Flat Shoals Road, Powers Ferry/Mt. Vernon Highway, or the Downtown Connector.

If you are trying to avoid Georgia 400, try taking SR9, which parallels Georgia 400. During rush hour traffic, avoid I-85 by taking Highway 29, which runs parallel or get on Highway 23, U.S. Highway 123, or the Downtown Connector.

One Last Tip for Rideshare Drivers in Atlanta

Heavy traffic, road construction, and road closures are a part of Atlanta. None of that is expected to change anytime soon, so it’s best to know how to make the best of it (and avoid it when possible). These last Atlanta traffic tips will help you avoid delays and losing your mind in gridlock traffic.

  • Avoid the inner right lane: A number of the inner right lanes on Atlanta freeways quickly become exit-only routes. If you get locked into one of these lanes, it’s not easy to shift, forcing you to take a longer route. Stay in the middle lanes.
  • Rush hour is early: Rush hour in Atlanta starts at 4 a.m. and can last for nearly six hours. Plan ahead and be ready for the congestion before the sun comes up.
  • Take secondary roads: Take the time to learn back roads to … everywhere. When you know the secondary roads that get you to your location, you’ll be available for more rides, bringing in more money.

Finally, don’t think you have to choose between driving for Uber or Lyft. You can do both. We’ve already broken down the differences and benefits of working for a rideshare company as a side gig. As you travel Atlanta as an Uber or Lyft driver, keep these tips in mind to help maximize your experience and your paycheck.

Looking For The Best Rideshare Company To Sign Up With?

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Uber & Lyft San Francisco Driver Guide

San Francisco Lyft & Uber Guide

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San Francisco Lyft & Uber Guide

Rideshare companies like Lyft and Uber are only getting more and more popular, especially in big cities, where owning a personal vehicle can be more of a hassle than a blessing. Out of all the cities in the U.S., San Francisco is the favorite when it comes to ride-hailing services, logging more than 75 million trips in 2017.

Whether your fares are tourists, commuters, or pub-crawlers, San Francisco can be an intriguing and profitable city to drive in for Uber or Lyft.

To maximize your earning potential as a Lyft or Uber driver, it’s essential to know the ins and outs of driving in San Francisco. This guide will hopefully help you navigate the crowded streets of San Francisco like a pro in no time.

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Where Are the Best Areas to Drive Uber or Lyft in San Francisco?

If you’re looking to maximize your income driving for Uber or Lyft in San Francisco, head over to these hot spots.

The Peninsula

From commuters to night-time hotspots, focus on these areas:

  • Downtown San Francisco
  • Mission District
  • North Beach
  • Pacific Heights

East Bay

These areas are big during the morning and evening commutes, as people often take advantage of Lyft and Uber to fill the gap between BART stops and their final destinations:

  • Berkeley
  • Oakland
  • Hayward
  • Fremont

South Bay

Like the East Bay, the South Bay is also ripe for fares during commute hours. Stake out your place near Caltrain stations in:

  • San Mateo
  • Palo Alto/Mountain View
  • San Jose

North Bay

Rush hour in Marin County can be a boon for Uber and Lyft drivers, but the real money is in weekends in the wine country. Head over to these locations for lighter traffic, hot fares, and beautiful scenery:

  • Santa Rosa
  • Petaluma
  • Napa Wine Region (focus on HWY 29 and Silverado Trail)
  • Sonoma (hang out around Broadway and W. Napa)
  • Vallejo
  • San Rafael
  • Larkspur
  • Mill Valley
  • Tiburon
  • Marin City
  • Sausalito

When Are the Best Times to Drive Lyft or Uber in San Francisco?

The most successful Uber and Lyft drivers tend to driver when it’s busy to take advantage of Uber’s Surge and Lyft’s Prime Time pricing. Hit the road during these peak times and take some time for yourself in the hours between.

The Peninsula

The best times to drive in San Francisco proper are:

  • Weekdays – 7:00 a.m.–10:00 a.m., 4:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m.
  • Friday/Saturday – 7:00 p.m.–2:00 a.m.
  • Sunday – 10:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.

Along the Embarcadero, you can find tired tourists in need of transport every weekend and on just about any day during the summer. Keep track of Giants games as well, for ample opportunities to make some extra cash.

East Bay

The best times to drive in the East Bay are:

  • Weekdays – 8:00 a.m.–10:00 a.m., 5:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m.
  • Thursday through Saturday – 8:00 p.m.–2:00 a.m.

Keeping up with UC Berkeley happenings can be advantageous for Uber and Lyft drivers. Sporting events, freshmen days, family weekends, and graduation are great times to hit the road.

South Bay

The best times to drive in the South Bay are:

  • Weekdays – 7:00 a.m.–10:00 a.m., 4:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m.
  • Friday/Saturday – 7:00 p.m.–2:00 a.m.

Trips from SFO to the South Bay can be lucrative, especially during weekends or counter-commute, but avoid being on the wrong side of the freeway during rush hour.

North Bay

The best times to drive in the North Bay are:

  • Weekdays – 7:00 a.m.–10:00 a.m., 4:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m. (Marin County).
  • Weekends – All day (Napa/Sonoma).

Weekends in the wine country can be beautiful and rewarding. Don’t forget to stock those bottles of water and snacks for passengers enjoying the local wines.

San Francisco Traffic – Uber and Lyft Routing Tips and Shortcuts

San Francisco’s narrow, one-way streets, steep hills, and regulatory hurdles can pose obstacles to lucrative driving experiences. Here are some pro tips to keep you moving and out of trouble:

  1. Timed green lights – Maintaining speeds of 20-25 mph will enable you to hit green lights all the way down:
    1. Fell Street – westbound
    2. Oak Avenue – eastbound
    3. Pine Street – westbound
    4. Bush Street – eastbound
    5. Franklin Street – northbound
    6. Gough Street – southbound
    7. The Great Highway – both directions
  2. Take the slalom path – Staying in center lanes, where available, can keep you moving steadily towards your destination. Where center lanes are not an option, watch for turning cars and make safe lane changes back and forth to avoid slow-downs.
  3. Watch for transit lanes – While many roads forbid left-hand turns, streets like Market and Mission have additional limited left turns, as well as mandatory right turns between 14th and Ceasar Chazez. Keep your eyes open to avoid unanticipated detours.
  4. CalTrain – Avoid the bus stop on 4th, and you’ll avoid a $300 ticket – opt instead for pick-ups and drop-offs at Bluxome or Townsend.
  5. AT&T Park – During special events, the city closes the roads around the field. Avoid congestion by dropping off and picking up north of the field near Pier 40 or south by Berry and 4th
  6. Civic Center Bart – Pick up and drop off on the white-curbed area around McAllister and 7th or Grove and 8th.
  7. Opt for long drives on the weekends – Longer rides are a great way to boost earnings as an Uber or Lyft driver. Try to take pickups from the airport to increase your chances for a longer ride with less traffic than weekdays would afford.
  8. Use your filters – Set your destination filters away from heavy traffic, like HWY 101 to ensure you’re making the most of your drive time.
  9. Chat up the tourists – San Francisco is a major tourist destination, so be sure to brush up on interesting local tidbits – your fares will appreciate the information and may tip you more than they normally would.

Uber and Lyft Airport Dropoffs and Pickups in San Francisco

There are three major airports in the San Francisco Bay Area that you’ll want to be familiar with – San Francisco International (SFO), Oakland International (OAK), and San Jose International (SJC). Be sure to stay up-to-date with unique requirements for Lyft and Uber drivers.

In general, you will want to keep these tips in mind when dropping off or picking up Uber or Lyft passengers:

  • Each airport will have specific wait areas for Lyft and Uber drivers.
  • Identify in advance the places you are legally allowed to drop off or pick up passengers.
  • You must display your Uber or Lyft tradedress (decals, lights, etc.) when at the airport.
  • You must maintain online status on your Uber or Lyft apps while at the airport.
  • Both Lyft and Uber maintain a “First In First Out” policy (FIFO), so if there are tons of drivers already queued, you may want to move to another area of town.

Is It Better to Sign Up for Uber or Lyft in San Francisco?

There are pros and cons to driving for both Uber and Lyft. Most drivers maximize their profits by driving for both companies. While Uber was first in the market, San Francisco-born Lyft is the clear choice amongst Bay Area riders and drivers.

With that said, both Uber and Lyft offer competitive signing bonuses and guarantees for drivers who hustle. You can maximize your income by taking advantage of heat maps, surge and prime time pricing, and ensuring you provide added value by passing on useful information, engaging conversation, or tasty snacks. A little customer service can go a long way.

Looking For The Best Rideshare Company To Sign Up With?

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drive with Lyft san diego

San Diego Lyft & Uber Guide

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San Diego Lyft & Uber Guide

Driving for Lyft and Uber can be a great way to make a living in sunny San Diego. With its decent year-round weather and ample hot spots, San Diego rideshare drivers have brought in over $500 million in revenue in 2017.

Want a piece of that action? Check out this San Diego rideshare driver guide for insider advice on how to drive like a pro and maximize your income as an Uber or Lyft driver. With Lyft and Uber offering lucrative sign-on bonuses or four-figure driver guarantees, San Diego is a prime spot to begin your rideshare career or side-gig.

There’s even a third rideshare option in San Diego if you already drive for Uber or Lyft. It’s called Bounce, and their platform allows riders to choose their favorite drivers, and request them again.

Where Are the Best Areas to Drive Uber or Lyft in San Diego?

The best way to ensure four-figure weekly earnings with Uber or Lyft is to make a lot of pick-ups each day. So naturally, you’ll want to focus on the busiest spots in San Diego. Pick one of these hot spots and get started.

  • The Gaslamp Quarter
  • Pacific Beach
  • San Diego International Airport
  • University City (one of the busiest parts of town midweek, especially on Lyft)
  • La Jolla
  • Downtown San Diego
  • Del Mar
  • Encinitas

San Diego Happy Hour and Weekend Destinations

If you’re not already in-the-know about local San Diego hangouts, get familiar with what’s hot and start your Friday evenings near one of these:

  • Rustic Root (Gaslamp)
  • PB Shore Club (Pacific Beach)
  • C-Level (Harbor Island)
  • House of Blues (Downtown)
  • Omnia Night Club (Gaslamp)
  • Balboa Park
Lyft San Diego Balboa Park

Don’t ignore the universities and beaches, which can be highly profitable on weekends and Thursday and Friday nights.

Camp Pendleton

Drivers in San Diego can get base access through the DBIDS program. This allows a driver to do drop-offs and pickups on the Camp Pendleton Military Base. The Camp Pendleton area can get pretty busy, and Lyft usually offers a fair number of pickup bonuses in that area during the week and weekend.

When Are the Best Times to Drive Lyft or Uber in San Diego?

Knowing where to be is only half the battle. You’ve also got to know when to be there! If you can, split up your day, focusing on rush hours at the beginning and end of the day.

  • Weekdays – 8:00 a.m.–10:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m.
  • Friday and Saturday nights – 7:00 p.m.-2:00 a.m.
  • Sundays – 11:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m.

As you can see, San Diego almost never sleeps, making it an optimal spot to drive for Uber or Lyft.

San Diego Traffic Routing Tips and Shortcuts

Like any city, navigating in San Diego successfully requires local knowledge. Using Waze as a navigational tool is a great start. Ready to go? Navigate to Encinitas for the pub-crawl route.

PCH Pub Crawl

For maximum profitability, be sure to head over to the Pacific Coast Highway after 6 p.m. on any given day. Between Encinitas and Del Mar, there is a high density of nightlife spots -with minimal stoplights and congestion. Curbside pick-ups and drop-offs allow for easy in-and-out access. Once you’ve made it into Del Mar, head up Birmingham Drive towards the I-5, making stops at the myriad train stops in Encinitas and Solana Beach.

Downtown San Diego Party Spots

On your way down to San Diego, you might as well hit the airport off of I-5 and North Harbor Drive. Once you get close to the airport, your queue timer will appear in the app. If it reads more than 10-15 minutes, skip it and head back downtown. Start on Market Street, avoiding 5th (near Petco Park)—you’ll hit too much traffic. If you use 1st and 6th Avenues as your borders, you can wind your way through downtown, picking up and dropping off scores of riders all night long.

Pro tip: If you find yourself with a request near 4th and 5th avenues below W. Broadway, cancel—it’s likely not worth your time.

University Party Central

If you like the party crowd, they can be found in these fine neighborhoods:

  • University Avenue and El Cajon Boulevard (between I-5 and the 805)
  • Mission Hills
  • University Heights
  • Hillcrest
  • North Park

These folks tend to prefer Lyft over other rideshare apps and tip better than you might expect. Stick to 30th Street for the best results.

You Might Want to Avoid…

If you’re averse to patrons puking in your vehicle and general mayhem in the streets, you may want to avoid Pacific Beach. And, while La Jolla might boast a tamer crowd, its geographical location makes it difficult to get in and out of, resulting in a high amount of minimum fare requests. With all the other, more profitable options available to you, it may be wise to just skip this part of San Diego.

Uber & Lyft Airport Dropoffs and Pickups in San Diego

San Diego International Airport (SAN) is one of the pickier airports in California when it comes to accommodating rideshare drivers. Here are some pro tips for navigating this travel hub while staying out of hot water:

  • One rideshare company at a time please—SAN prohibits rideshare drivers from working for more than one rideshare company at a time while on the premises. Pick one and keep that app open at all times.
  • Display proper trade dress—If you choose to work through Uber, then you must display proper Uber decals on the front passenger windshield and the rear passenger windshield—both facing outward.
  • No old vehicles—SAN requires all rideshare vehicles to be less than 10 years old.
  • Keep to the wait zone—At SAN, this area is behind the Airport Cell Phone Lot near North Harbor Drive.
  • Know your pick-up areas—Both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 have designated pickup zones, but beware—you must pull a ticket, pick up your rider, and be out within 10 minutes, otherwise, you must pay fees.
  • Obey the FIFO queue—Both Uber and Lyft drivers are subject to the SAN “First In First Out” (FIFO) policy. Once you are within the FIFO zone, you are placed in the queue. If you leave the queue, you lose your place.

The one great thing about SAN is that you can drop passengers off curbside. Eager for extra tips? Consider helping your riders with their luggage.

Is It Better to Sign Up for Uber or Lyft in San Diego?

Both Uber and Lyft are popular rideshare companies in San Diego. While Uber is bigger overall, Lyft has seen tremendous growth over the past few years and boasted more than 400 million rides in San Diego in 2017 alone. Regardless of personal opinions over Lyft or Uber, most rideshare drivers work with both companies. You never know if some snag will bring an app down for a few hours, or if a problem with paperwork may leave you out of commission for a few weeks.

Which San Diego Neighborhoods Favor What Rideshare App?

It may seem strange, but there are certain neighborhoods that favor Lyft over Uber and vice versa. Here’s the breakdown of Team Lyft neighborhoods in San Diego:

  • Hillcrest
  • Mission Hills
  • University Heights
  • Pacific Beach
  • Seaport Village
  • Balboa Park
  • Encinitas
  • Torrey Pines
  • Solano Beach
  • Chula Vista
  • Del Mar

San Diego State and UCSD have partnered with Lyft to provide discounted rides for students.

Who Makes More, San Diego Lyft or Uber Drivers?

Drivers for Lyft and Uber generally earn between $15 and $20 an hour. If you approach things strategically, part-time drivers can increase that hourly rate to $20-$26 per hour, working just evenings and weekends.

The one key difference in income between Lyft and Uber is tipping. Lyft has had a tipping feature in its app since inception, while Uber added the feature later in the game. The result? Uber patrons aren’t in the habit of tipping drivers. Lyft riders, on the other hand, are not only a little more used to tipping, but tend to tip more per ride than Uber riders.

When it comes to driver experience, most drivers prefer Lyft over Uber—two-thirds, in fact. Nationally, Lyft drivers earn about $2 more than Uber drivers.

Looking For The Best Rideshare Company To Sign Up With?

Sign up to drive with Lyft today and get a sign up bonus.

With Lyft, you can sign up to drive even if you don’t have a car!

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