First Ride Guide: Getting the Ball Rolling with the Uber Driver App for Uber Eats

Getting started as an Uber Eats driver in Canada can feel both exciting and a little overwhelming. Once your application has been approved, the Uber Driver app becomes your main tool on the road — it’s where you’ll accept orders, track deliveries, and monitor your earnings.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know the first time you open the app. From logging in, setting up your profile, to completing your first delivery, each step is explained clearly so you can focus on what matters: delivering meals and making money.

Think of it as your “first shift manual” — a simple roadmap to help you navigate the app without second-guessing. By the end, you’ll know how to handle requests, what to do at restaurants, how to manage cancellations, and even how to track your pay.

Logging into the Uber Driver App

Once your account has been approved, the very first step is to sign in to the Uber Driver app. This is the app you’ll be using as a delivery partner — it’s different from the regular Uber Eats app that customers use to order food.

Steps to Log In

Download the app: Head to the App Store (for iOS) or Google Play (for Android) and install the Uber Driver app.
Enter your credentials: Use the email and password you registered with during the sign-up process.
Verification: You may be asked to enter a verification code sent via text message. This is just a quick security step.

Tips for a Smooth Start

Keep your GPS on: Location services must be enabled, or you won’t receive delivery requests.
Stable connection: Make sure your data plan is active and reliable. Poor connection can delay order notifications.
Phone battery: Charge your phone fully before starting your shift. Cold Canadian weather can drain your battery faster than expected, so carrying a power bank is always a good idea.

Completing Your Profile & Documents

Before you can start delivering, you’ll need to make sure that your profile is fully set up and that all required documents are approved. Think of this step as your “final check” before hitting the road.

Profile Setup

Profile photo: Upload a clear, professional-looking headshot. Customers and restaurants will see this, so avoid sunglasses, hats, or group photos.
Vehicle details: If you’re using a car, bike, or scooter, make sure your vehicle information matches what you provided during registration. This includes licence plate number, vehicle make, and model.

Documents Required

Depending on your delivery method (car, bicycle, scooter), the documents may vary slightly, but typically include:

Driver’s licence: A valid Canadian driver’s licence if you’re using a car or scooter.
Vehicle insurance: Proof of insurance that meets provincial requirements.
Vehicle inspection: Some cities require a safety inspection before you can start driving.
Background check: Uber conducts this automatically, but you may see it listed under your documents section until it clears.

Verifying Status

In the app, go to Account > Documents. Here you’ll see if your uploads are approved, pending, or need re-submission. If anything is missing or expired, you won’t be able to go online.

Tips to Avoid Delays

Upload documents in good lighting so everything is easy to read.
Double-check expiry dates — Uber won’t accept documents that are close to expiring.
If your document is rejected, fix the issue and re-upload as soon as possible.

By completing your profile and documents properly, you ensure that your account is active and ready. Once everything is verified, you’re cleared to start accepting deliveries.

Setting Up Your Payment Method

Getting paid is one of the most important parts of driving with Uber Eats. Before you go online for your first delivery, make sure your payment method is set up correctly.

Adding a Bank Account

Go to Account > Wallet in the Uber Driver app.
Select Add Payment Method.
Enter your Canadian bank account information (institution number, transit number, and account number).
Save your details and confirm.

Uber requires a Canadian bank account in your name. Joint accounts are accepted as long as your name appears on the account.

Payment Options

Weekly payouts: By default, Uber sends your earnings automatically every week. Payments usually arrive mid-week, depending on your bank.
Instant Cash Out: If you prefer quicker access, you can cash out your earnings instantly (up to 5 times per day) for a small fee. This is handy if you need gas money or want to cover daily expenses.

Tips to Manage Your Earnings

Always double-check that your banking details are correct to avoid payout delays.
Keep an eye on the Earnings section in the app. You’ll see a breakdown of trip fares, boosts, promotions, and tips.
Some drivers set up a separate bank account just for Uber deposits. This makes it easier to track income and prepare for tax season.

With your payment method in place, you’ll never have to worry about how you’re getting paid. Now you’re ready to hit the road and start earning.

Learning the Map & Delivery Zones

One of the keys to being successful with Uber Eats is knowing your delivery area. The app gives you the tools, but understanding how the zones work will help you maximize earnings and cut down on wasted time.

Hotspots and Busy Areas

The Uber Driver app highlights “busy zones” or hotspots where restaurants receive the most orders.
These are usually near downtown cores, shopping districts, or clusters of popular restaurants.
Hanging around these areas increases your chances of getting requests quickly.

Navigating with the App

Once you accept an order, the app provides turn-by-turn GPS directions.
You can also connect the app to Google Maps or Waze if you prefer a different navigation tool.
Always double-check addresses, especially in condos or apartment complexes where entrances can be tricky.

Timing Matters

Lunchtime (11 a.m. – 2 p.m.) and dinnertime (5 p.m. – 9 p.m.) are usually the busiest periods.
Weekends often bring higher demand, especially near entertainment districts or residential areas.
Weather can play a big role — rainy or snowy days often mean more people order in, which means more trips for you.

Local Knowledge

Spend some time exploring your city off-shift. Knowing shortcuts, one-way streets, or construction detours will save you time later.
Keep an eye on parking rules around busy restaurants to avoid tickets while picking up.

By learning the delivery zones, you’ll be better prepared to position yourself where the orders are, cut down on idle time, and boost your daily earnings.

Going Online

Once your profile and payment details are set, you’re ready to make your first shift live. In Uber Eats terms, this means switching your status to Online.

How to Go Online

Open the Uber Driver app.
On the home screen, you’ll see a prompt to go online.
Slide or tap the button, and you’re officially available to accept delivery requests.

What Happens When You’re Online

The app begins searching for nearby delivery requests.
You’ll see a notification pop up with the restaurant name, customer drop-off location, and estimated earnings.
You can accept or decline, but remember that frequently declining requests may impact your performance metrics.

Staying Visible

To keep receiving orders, stay in or near busy zones. If you go too far outside the coverage area, you may stop receiving requests.
Keep your phone unlocked and volume on — missing notifications could mean missing out on trips.

Safety & Preparation

Going online means you should be ready to drive immediately. Don’t toggle on if you’re still fuelling up or running errands.
Always check your fuel level, phone charge, and weather conditions before starting.

Going online is like flipping the switch to start your shift. From here, you’re ready to accept your first delivery and begin earning on the road.

Accepting & Picking Up Orders

Once you’re online, the app will start sending delivery requests your way. This is where the real action begins.

Accepting an Order

A notification pops up with key details: the restaurant name, customer location, distance, and estimated earnings.
Tap Accept to take the order. If you don’t respond within a short window, the request will disappear and go to another driver.
While you can decline, frequent declines may reduce your chance of receiving certain promotions or bonuses.

Navigation to the Restaurant

After accepting, the app provides turn-by-turn GPS directions.
You’ll also see the restaurant’s address and estimated prep time.
If you arrive early and the food isn’t ready yet, stay patient — the restaurant staff will confirm when it’s good to go.

At the Restaurant

Always check in politely with staff and mention the order ID.
Verify the name or order number matches what’s on your app.
Make sure all bags are sealed (as required by food safety rules). Never open or tamper with the food.

Tips for Smooth Pickups

Parking can be tricky in busy areas. Watch for short-term parking spots or loading zones.
If you can’t find parking, call the restaurant — sometimes they’ll bring the order out to you.
Keep an insulated delivery bag ready. In colder Canadian weather, this helps keep food warm until you reach the customer.

Accepting and picking up orders is all about speed and accuracy. The smoother you handle this step, the faster you’ll get to the delivery — and the happier the customer will be.

Picking Up Food from the Restaurant

After accepting an order and arriving at the restaurant, the next step is collecting the food. This may sound simple, but handling it properly ensures smooth deliveries and good ratings.

Checking In

Walk into the restaurant and let staff know you’re there for an Uber Eats pickup.
Mention the customer’s name or order number shown in your app.
Be polite and professional — restaurant staff are your partners in making the delivery process smooth.

Verifying the Order

Double-check the order ID before leaving. Mistakes happen, and confirming avoids delivering the wrong meal.
Some restaurants may hand you multiple bags. Make sure all items are included.
Never open food containers or bags; sealed packaging is a food safety requirement.

Handling the Order

Place the food in your insulated delivery bag right away. This keeps hot food hot and cold items fresh, especially in Canadian winters or hot summer days.
Keep drinks upright and secure to prevent spills. Some drivers use cup holders or carriers for extra stability.

Common Situations

Food not ready yet: If the order isn’t ready, wait near the pickup counter. Avoid wandering off — the app will only let you confirm pickup once the staff marks it ready.
Restaurant delays: If wait times are unusually long, you can contact Uber support through the app.
Order mismatch: If staff hands you an order that doesn’t match your app, double-check before leaving.

By managing pickups carefully, you save time, avoid mistakes, and ensure customers get their food in perfect condition.

Delivering to the Customer

Once you’ve picked up the food, it’s time to bring it to the customer. This step is where customer experience really matters.

Navigation to the Drop-Off

The app will automatically switch to the customer’s address once you confirm pickup.
Use the built-in GPS or connect to Google Maps/Waze if you prefer.
Always double-check the street name and unit number to avoid wrong turns or wasted time.

Following Delivery Instructions

Many customers add special notes like “leave at the door,” “buzz #302,” or “call on arrival.”
Read these carefully before arriving to avoid delays.
For apartments or condos, be mindful of buzz codes, security desks, or locked entrances.

At the Customer’s Location

If it’s a handed delivery, knock or ring the bell and wait for the customer.
For leave-at-door deliveries, place the food neatly, snap a photo in the app for confirmation, and mark it delivered.
Always be polite and professional — a quick “Have a good one!” goes a long way.

Tips for Smooth Drop-Offs

Avoid leaving food in unsafe places (like directly on the street or in front of a busy doorway).
Keep communication open. If you can’t find the address, use the in-app call or message feature.
Respect privacy. Only use the customer’s contact for delivery purposes, never beyond that.

Delivering to the customer is the final stretch of the order. Smooth, accurate drop-offs often lead to better ratings and, in many cases, extra tips.

Completing the Delivery

After you’ve handed over or dropped off the food, the final step is to mark the order as complete in the app. This closes the trip and makes sure you get paid.

How to Complete an Order

Open the Uber Driver app after drop-off.
Tap Delivered to confirm the order is finished.
If you took a photo for proof of delivery, upload it before confirming.

Customer Tips

Customers can add a tip through the Uber Eats app either before or after delivery.
Tips appear in your earnings summary once processed.
Always provide good service — clear communication and careful handling often encourage higher tips.

Rating System

After delivery, both you and the customer may be asked to leave a rating.
Ratings matter: higher ratings can improve your reputation and sometimes unlock incentives.
If you face a situation beyond your control (like long restaurant delays), it usually won’t impact your rating negatively.

Earnings Update

Once the delivery is complete, your earnings update almost instantly in the app.
You’ll see a breakdown of base pay, surge/boost (if applicable), and tips.

Completing the delivery not only finalizes the trip but also ensures your time and effort are properly recorded. It’s the last tap before you’re ready to move on to your next order.

Cancelling an Order

Sometimes things don’t go as planned. While you should aim to complete every order, there may be situations where cancelling is the best or only option.

How to Cancel

Open the Uber Driver app.
Tap the order you want to cancel.
Go to Help > Cancel Delivery.
Select the most accurate reason from the list provided.

Common Reasons for Cancellation

Restaurant closed: You arrive and find the restaurant shut down.
Order unavailable: The restaurant informs you the food can’t be prepared.
Customer unreachable: You’ve waited and tried calling/messaging, but the customer doesn’t respond.
Emergency or vehicle issue: A flat tire, accident, or other urgent problem prevents you from completing the trip.

Consequences of Cancelling

Cancellation rate: Frequent cancellations may increase your rate, which Uber monitors.
Impact on incentives: High cancellation rates can disqualify you from promotions like quest bonuses or surge pay.
Account warnings: In rare cases of excessive cancellations, you may receive warnings or temporary restrictions.

Best Practices

Only cancel when absolutely necessary.
Communicate clearly with the restaurant or customer before cancelling — sometimes issues can be solved without ending the trip.
If it’s a serious problem (like safety concerns), use the in-app support right away.

Cancelling orders should be the exception, not the rule. Handled responsibly, it won’t hurt your account — but overusing it could impact your earnings and reliability.

Tracking Your Earnings

One of the best features of the Uber Driver app is how clearly it shows your income. Knowing where your money comes from helps you plan shifts, manage expenses, and prepare for tax season.

Where to Find Earnings

Open the Uber Driver app and tap Earnings on the home screen.
You’ll see today’s total, along with a breakdown of recent trips.
You can also view your weekly summary, which includes base pay, promotions, and tips.

What’s Included in Earnings

Base fare: The standard pay for time and distance.
Trip supplement: Extra pay if the trip is unusually short, long, or requires extra effort.
Boosts & promotions: Incentives offered in busy zones or during peak times.
Tips: Customers can add tips through the app, which go 100% to you.

Managing Payouts

By default, Uber sends payments weekly to your linked Canadian bank account.
You can also use Instant Cash Out for same-day transfers (up to 5 times per day, with a small fee).
Check your banking info under Account > Wallet to make sure everything is correct.

Tips for Staying on Top of Earnings

Review your weekly statements to see which times and zones give you the best results.
Keep track of expenses like gas, parking, and phone bills — these are important for tax deductions.
Many drivers set aside a portion of each payout for taxes so they aren’t caught off guard at year-end.

Tracking earnings isn’t just about watching the numbers grow — it’s about understanding your driving patterns so you can work smarter, not harder.

Using Support When Needed

Even with preparation, issues can pop up while delivering. The Uber Driver app has built-in support features to help you resolve problems quickly and keep your deliveries on track.

Accessing Help

In the app, tap Help from the menu or directly from the active trip screen.
Browse through common issues like order delays, missing items, or payment concerns.
If the suggested solutions don’t fix the problem, you can contact Uber support directly through chat or call (availability may vary by city).

When to Use Support

Order problems: Wrong item, missing food, or restaurant unable to prepare the order.
Customer issues: Can’t reach the customer, unclear delivery instructions, or safety concerns.
Technical glitches: App crashes, GPS errors, or payout delays.
Account matters: Document rejection, payment setup issues, or questions about incentives.

Tips for Smooth Resolutions

Provide clear details when reporting an issue — include screenshots if needed.
Stay calm and professional. Support staff are there to help, and polite communication speeds things up.
For urgent safety concerns, use the Emergency button in the app to contact local authorities right away.

Knowing how and when to use support keeps your work stress-free. It ensures that small hiccups don’t turn into major problems and helps you focus on driving and earning.

Closing

Starting out as an Uber Eats driver in Canada might feel like stepping onto the ice for the first time — a little shaky at first, but once you find your balance, you’re gliding smooth. From logging in, setting up your documents, learning the busy zones, to completing and even cancelling orders when needed, every step gets easier with practice.

The more you drive, the better you’ll get at reading the map, handling pickups, and delivering with confidence. Don’t forget to track your earnings and lean on support when things go sideways.

At the end of the day, driving Uber Eats is about flexibility and independence. You set your own hours, hit the road when it works for you, and cash out when you need it. Some days might be busier than others, but hey — that’s just the way the puck bounces.

So charge up your phone, warm up the car, and grab your delivery bag. Time to go online and start earning. Easy as a double-double from Timmies, eh?