Uber has actively cleared drivers with histories of violent criminal convictions—including assault, stalking, and child abuse—to operate on its ride-hailing platform, a New York Times investigation revealed. This practice directly contradicts the company’s public assurances about rigorous background checks designed to protect passengers.
Systemic Loopholes in Background Checks
Uber’s internal policies allow individuals convicted of many violent crimes to become drivers, provided the offenses occurred more than seven years ago. The company rejects applicants convicted of severe crimes like murder, sexual assault, kidnapping, or terrorism, but the vast majority of other felonies are ignored. This approach appears to be a deliberate cost-cutting measure aimed at rapidly onboarding drivers.
The system is designed to approve applicants quickly, even if they have a documented history of violence. The Times found Uber approves drivers with convictions for child abuse, assault, and stalking in 22 states.
Geographical Blind Spots and Limited Scope
Uber’s background checks are also geographically limited. In 35 states, screenings only cover the past seven years of a driver’s residential history. This means a violent crime committed outside that timeframe—even in another state or country—might not be flagged, leaving passengers unknowingly at risk.
The Implications
This practice raises serious questions about Uber’s commitment to passenger safety. The company’s marketing materials explicitly claim thorough screening processes, but the reality is far more lenient. This discrepancy undermines trust and exposes riders to potential harm.
Uber’s decision to prioritize growth and cost reduction over safety highlights a troubling conflict of interest. While the company claims to prioritize passenger safety, its policies suggest otherwise. The investigation exposes a calculated gamble: accepting a higher level of risk to expand its driver pool quickly and cheaply.
