How to Buy a Car for Uber with No Credit History
Guide for new arrivals wanting to drive Uber, Didi, or Ola in Australia. Vehicle requirements, finance options without credit history, insurance, and step-by-step process to get on the road.Uber car finance guide for new arrivals. No Australian credit history required.
Helping rideshare drivers get on the road since 2020
Important Considerations
Rideshare driving can be a good way to earn income, but do your research before committing to car finance. Earnings vary significantly, and you need to account for fuel, insurance, maintenance, and platform fees. Never overcommit on car payments based on optimistic earning projections.
Uber Vehicle Requirements
Before buying a car for rideshare, ensure it meets platform requirements. These can vary by city and service level.
Note: Requirements vary by platform (Uber, Didi, Ola) and by service level (UberX vs Uber Comfort vs UberXL). Always check current requirements on the platform website.
Popular Rideshare Vehicles
Toyota Camry
Reliable, comfortable, good fuel economy, high resale
Toyota Corolla
Excellent reliability, low running costs, passengers love them
Kia Cerato
Good value, comfortable, 7-year warranty on new models
Hyundai i30
Reliable, economical, good safety ratings
Mazda 3
Quality feel, reliable, pleasant to drive all day
Step-by-Step Process
Check Uber/Didi/Ola Driver Requirements
Before buying a car, ensure you meet the driver requirements. You typically need an Australian drivers licence (held for 1+ years), to pass background checks, and meet age requirements (varies by platform).
Understand Vehicle Requirements
Each platform has specific vehicle requirements. Generally, the car must be under 10 years old, have 4 doors, seat 4+ passengers, and be in good condition. Requirements may be stricter for premium services.
Get Pre-Approved for Finance
If you do not have Australian credit history, work with a broker who specialises in new arrivals and rideshare drivers. You will need to show employment/income potential, have some deposit, and demonstrate stable circumstances.
Choose Your Vehicle
Consider fuel economy (your biggest ongoing cost), reliability, passenger comfort, and boot space. Toyota and Hyundai are popular choices for their reliability and resale value.
Arrange Insurance
You need comprehensive car insurance PLUS rideshare-specific coverage. Standard policies often exclude commercial use like rideshare. Compare rideshare insurance options.
Complete Platform Onboarding
Once you have your car, register it with your chosen platform. You will need to upload documents including licence, registration, insurance, and photos of your vehicle.
Finance Options for Rideshare Drivers
Even without Australian credit history, options exist
Chattel Mortgage (ABN Holders)
If you have an ABN, you may be able to claim GST credits and depreciation. The car is in your name from day one. Popular with full-time rideshare drivers.
Best for: Full-time drivers with ABN
Consumer Car Loan
Standard secured car loan with fixed repayments. The vehicle is security for the loan. Available to some new arrivals without credit history.
Best for: Part-time drivers, those without ABN
Novated Lease (If Employed)
If you have employment alongside rideshare, you may be able to salary package a vehicle. Especially attractive for electric vehicles (FBT exempt).
Best for: Those with regular employment
No Australian Credit History?
We specialise in helping new arrivals access car finance for rideshare driving. Our lenders assess your situation holistically - not just credit scores.
Uber Car Finance FAQs
Common questions about rideshare car finance for new arrivals
Yes, some lenders work with new arrivals and rideshare drivers. You will typically need proof of income (could be projected rideshare earnings based on hours you plan to work), a deposit (10-20% helps), and stable living circumstances. A broker who specialises in this area can identify suitable lenders.
Without credit history, having a deposit significantly impro...
Without credit history, having a deposit significantly improves your options. Aim for 10-20% of the car value. This reduces lender risk and may get you better interest rates.
Not immediately. You need an Australian drivers licence (ove...
Not immediately. You need an Australian drivers licence (overseas licence may work temporarily but platforms often require Australian licence), and you need to pass background checks which can take time. Factor in a few weeks to get set up.
Toyota Camry and Corolla are extremely popular due to reliab...
Toyota Camry and Corolla are extremely popular due to reliability, passenger comfort, and resale value. Hybrids like Toyota Camry Hybrid or RAV4 Hybrid are becoming popular for fuel savings. Electric vehicles like BYD Atto 3 have zero fuel costs but require charging infrastructure.
Yes. Standard car insurance often excludes rideshare use. Yo...
Yes. Standard car insurance often excludes rideshare use. You need comprehensive insurance plus rideshare coverage. Uber and other platforms have partnerships with insurers, or you can add rideshare cover to some comprehensive policies.
Yes, most drivers sign up for multiple platforms to maximise...
Yes, most drivers sign up for multiple platforms to maximise their earnings. Ensure your car meets the requirements for each platform you want to drive for.
Earnings vary significantly based on location, hours, and de...
Earnings vary significantly based on location, hours, and demand. After fuel, insurance, car costs, and other expenses, full-time drivers might net $1,000-$1,500 per week, but this varies widely. Do not count on specific earnings when committing to car finance.
Still have questions? Contact our friendly team