Uber Tightens Driver Background Checks Following Safety Concerns

Uber announced it is strengthening its background check policies for drivers and delivery couriers in the United States.

Under the new policy, people with prior convictions for violent felonies, sexual crimes, stalking, and strangulation will now be permanently banned from driving or delivering for the company, regardless of when those convictions occurred.

The stricter standards mark a significant shift in Uber’s safety policies and will apply not only to rideshare drivers but also to couriers working for its delivery services.

The changes come after a December investigation by The New York Times found that Uber’s previous screening policies allowed some people with violent criminal convictions to work as drivers.

Uber is also facing thousands of lawsuits from customers who claim they were sexually assaulted during rides, adding to pressure on the company to strengthen rider protections.

The company says the updated screening measures are part of a broader effort to improve safety for both riders and drivers.