What you need to drive with Lyft in Washington, DC
Already applied? Check out the status of your application
WHAT YOU'LL NEED TO APPLY TO DRIVE IN WASHINGTON, DC
Once you’re approved, you’ll also be able to drive anywhere in Virginia, Maryland,* or Washington, DC.
Vehicle requirements
- 2014 or newer
- See if your car qualifies for Black to earn more on each ride
- 4 doors
- 5-8 seats, including the driver’s
- Not on the list of ineligible subcompact vehicles
- Not a taxi or stretch limousine
- Not titled as salvage, non-repairable, rebuilt or any other equivalent classification
- Or rent a car through Express Drive with standard insurance included
Driver requirements
- Valid Washington, DC, Maryland, or Virginia driver’s license*
- 25 or older
- Pass driver screening: reviews your driving history and criminal background check
- Any smartphone that can download and run the Lyft Driver app
*Drivers without a Washington DC, Maryland, or Virginia driver's license will not be dispatched for pickups in DC proper. Drivers with Express Drive vehicles must have a valid, non-temporary Washington, DC, MD, or VA driver’s license. Temporary licenses will not be accepted.
Document requirements
- Personal vehicle insurance
- Driver profile photo — Learn how to take the best photo.
- Proof of Washington, DC, Maryland, or Virginia vehicle inspection
- DFHV non-MSA decal (Active Military members only)
- See examples of these documents
Applying to drive in a different city?
HOW DO I BECOME A LYFT DRIVER?
Apply
You can fill out the application here, or in the Lyft Driver app — download it from the App Store (iOS) or the Google Play store.
Get approved
After you’ve uploaded your required documents and passed the background checks, you’re ready to start earning on the road!
Drive and earn
Head to the learning center for helpful tutorials to get started, and make sure the Lyft emblem and other required documents are in your car. Open the Lyft Driver app, go online to start getting ride requests and making money on your own schedule.
Frequently asked questions
How much can I earn?
How much can I earn?
Can I rent a car instead of using my own?
Can I rent a car instead of using my own?
Can I get help with my application in person?
Can I get help with my application in person?
Do I need a vehicle inspection to drive in Washington, DC?
Do I need a vehicle inspection to drive in Washington, DC?
If I’m approved to drive in Washington, DC am I approved to drive in other cities?
If I’m approved to drive in Washington, DC am I approved to drive in other cities?
Additional questions?
Additional questions?