Set Your Own Hours & Get Paid: Start Driving with Lyft

Updated May 14, 2025.

Lyft is a popular ride-sharing company – basically like a virtual taxi service – that operates its business almost entirely over the internet through a cell phone app.

Becoming a driver for Lyft is fairly easy, all things considered, and it's increasingly becoming a popular way to make a part-time or even full time income.

Below I've shared some more details on how it all works.

Working for Lyft

As stated above, Lyft offers a platform where you can use your own car—or rent one through their Express Drive program—to pick up passengers and earn money on your own schedule.

It's designed to be flexible: you decide when and where you want to drive.

There's no boss, no clocking in, and no minimum hours. Just open the app, go online, and start accepting rides.

Lyft Pay Rate

Lyft drivers are paid based on a combination of time and distance for each ride, plus any tips from passengers.

As of 2025, the average hourly earnings for Lyft drivers in the U.S. are around $21.51, though this can vary widely depending on your city, the time you drive, and how many rides you complete .

Lyft has also committed to ensuring drivers receive at least 70% of the rider's payment after external fees. If your weekly earnings fall below this threshold, Lyft will pay the difference .

Scheduling with Lyft

One of the biggest perks of driving for Lyft is the ability to set your own schedule. You can drive as much or as little as you want, and you can choose the times that work best for you.

This makes it an ideal option for people who need flexibility, such as students, parents, or those with other jobs.

Requirements

To become a Lyft driver, you'll need to be 25 years old, with a valid driver's license and be able to pass a criminal background check as well as a driving record check.

You must also have a smartphone capable of running the Lyft driver app.

Your vehicle must be a 4-door and meet Lyft's requirements, or you can rent one through Lyft's Express Drive program.

Tech Requirements

As briefly mentioned above, you'll need a smartphone (iOS or Android) with a data plan to run the Lyft Driver app.

The app is your main tool for accepting rides, navigating to passengers, and tracking your earnings.

A reliable phone mount and car charger are also recommended to keep your device accessible and powered during your shifts.

Lyft Application Process

The application process is pretty straightforward.

You simply apply online, upload the required documents (driver's license, registration, and insurance), consent to the background check, possibly consent to a vehicle inspection, and then get approved to start driving for them.

Feedback

Pros:

• Flexible Schedule: Many drivers appreciate the ability to choose when they work. One driver noted, “Make your own hours; no boss will tell you when to clock in or clock out” .
• Easy to Get Started: The application process is relatively simple, allowing drivers to begin earning quickly.
• Meet New People: Some enjoy the social aspect of driving and meeting diverse passengers.

Cons:

• Earnings Can Be Low: Some drivers report that earnings don't always match expectations, especially after accounting for expenses like gas and maintenance. One driver mentioned, “They pay you less than half the industry standard as a driver” .
• Lack of Support: There are complaints about limited support from Lyft when issues arise. A driver shared, “Absolutely ZERO support from this company. They inflate potential earnings” .
• Vehicle Wear and Tear: Frequent driving can lead to increased maintenance costs and depreciation of your vehicle.

How to Get Started

If driving for Lyft sounds like the sort of gig you'd be interested in, and you meet all the requirements, go here for further reading, and submit your application online.