Uber: Criminal Background Checks & Safety Concerns | NYT Investigation

Uber’s policies regarding driver background checks came under scrutiny in late December following a New York Times report detailing the ride-hailing company’s practice of approving drivers with convictions for violent felonies. The report revealed that Uber generally permits drivers with felony convictions after a period of seven years, a policy that has sparked concerns about passenger safety. The New York Times investigation found that Uber’s approach to background checks varied based on state and local regulations, but the seven-year standard for felony convictions was a common thread. Which means drivers convicted of offenses such as aggravated assault, robbery, and even certain sexual offenses could be cleared to operate on the platform after the stipulated period, regardless of the severity of the crime. The policy has drawn criticism from safety advocates and raised questions about the thoroughness of Uber’s vetting process. While Uber maintains its commitment to passenger safety, the report suggests a willingness to prioritize driver recruitment over stringent background checks. The company’s rationale, as implied by the reported policy, centers on the belief that past convictions do not necessarily preclude an individual from becoming a responsible driver. The New York Times article highlighted instances where Uber approved drivers with multiple convictions, including those for violent crimes. The report did not detail specific cases of incidents linked to these drivers, but focused on the potential risk created by the policy itself. Uber has not publicly altered its background check policies in response to the December report. The company has not issued a comprehensive statement addressing the specific allegations raised by The New York Times, and continues to operate under the existing framework of state and local laws, combined with its internal seven-year conviction guideline. As of February 19, 2026, Uber has not announced any changes to its driver vetting procedures.