Hi! Welcome back to 'How to become an Uber-driver',
a series in which I will become a certified Uber-driver, within 8 weeks.
In the previous episode we saw what Uber was exactly, and how it works.
This episode is about the second step in the process: applying at Uber.
Right, as we're making this series together with Uber, they've made it possible for you and me to use the Uber-services at a discount.
That's why we've created a special website, which you'll find in the description.
And if we punch that in, we're ready to apply!
Name... Of course I know that... E-mail...
Next, you get the choice whether you have your Uber-driver card or not.
I haven't got a Uber-card yet, so I'll select this one...
Immediately you get a confirmation text. "Welcome to Uber, you can start making quick money right away.
Check your e-mail for more information."
I've received the e-mail, it's also an invite for an appointment at the HQ in Amsterdam,
The appointment is made, let's go to Amsterdam!
When you're inside the Uber-HQ on Vijzelstraat, you'll get a very broad explanation in the so called "Information Session".
The presentation takes about half an hour, and clears up a lot of things like the app, the rules of engagement, the costs and the other steps.
It's also a pretty good moment to meet other people who are considering driving for Uber, or people who've already made the leap to Uber.
I was stuck at home for a while, because I did some temporary work.
And Uber came by one time, and I was already driving a private vehicle.
So when I discovered Uber, I thought: "I really like driving cars, so if I can make money doing that..."
- What car are you driving at the moment then?
Right now I'm driving a BMW. A BMW 5-series from 2011.
It's a 525d, so it's a pretty nice ride! - Yeah
Well I've been working in the medical sector for quite some time now.
Delivering medical supplements, medicin and other stuff. Restocking pharmacies and such.
And I was looking to do something else actually.
I've heard it from a friend, like: "it's new!" And you can make your own times, and I like that.
- What do you do now? I'm currently working at a security firm.
I'm not really sure about it though... - But what causes your doubt?
Well, it's the costs really. There's a lot you have to put into this.
Also, I've got a car which isn't really suited for this kind of work.
- What car do you drive? I'm driving a Nissan Van...
I have to say, I'm very interested. I still have to think it through though...
- What's there to think about then? Well, I'll have to get a new car, and then the additional costs.
I think it's very nice to do, but I'm not sure yet. There's definitely something in here,
only I don't know if I'll be able to get everything in order. I'll also have to consider this with my family, of course.
- Because you'll have to talk it over, like: "Honey I have to invest €3000 in Uber". Yep, that's it.
- What's the main reason for you to not drive for Uber? I think it will be the costs, the investments. You have to start from scrap...
- What makes you a good Uber-driver? The professionality, that's very important.
Also discretion. But other than that... Yeah, well, people say you should treat other people the way you want to be treated,
but I think you should treat people the way they want to be treated.
- Right, walk me through that whole experience then. Okay, for instance: I'll be driving up to you,
I make sure I get the door for you. Also, I make sure there's a bottle of water or something on board.
Then it's going to be a safe and easy ride.
- What's left for me to do today? The most important thing is that you get all your questions answered today.
Also, you've got to apply for driving ed so that you can get your Uber-driver card. My colleague Jet will help you over there.
I'm excited to introduce to you: Jet! Jet, you work at Uber and you're gonna help me here, right?
- Yes! That's right! What are we going to do exactly?
Well, we're gonna enter you first. Your name, address, phone number, e-mail address,
all those details will go into the system. Then we can apply with Wolf and you can get your theory book.
In fact, you could start learning this afternoon already. Hopefully you'll get your card within 4 to 6 weeks!
Can't wait, let's go!
Apply for Driving Card... - Yeah, you can do that here in the office.
When you apply here you can also pay directly in the office. And when you've paid, you get your theory book.
And within that price you get a practical and a theoretical examination? - Yes, that's right. You get both in the package.
Also, you get a 100% of passing the theoretical exam. The instant you've followed all theoretical courses, Wolf guarantees you you'll pass.
Alongside the theoretical lessons, you get 3 practical lessons with one exam as well.
Right! This one is yours now. You can start this afternoon!
I really thought I had put this behind me, a driving-ed theory book...
Right. I'm going to study very, very hard. Next week you'll see more about that: theory and practical lessons. See ya!