Being a rideshare driver comes with many hazards like drunk drivers and riders, car crashes and more. One hazard not often mentioned is unaccompanied minors requesting a ride.
Neither Uber or Lyft permit minors to ride alone. Below are the policies for both.
Uber says, “A rider must be at least 18 years of age to have an Uber account and request rides. Anyone under 18 must be accompanied by someone 18 years of age or older on any ride.” Uber also says. “As a driver-partner, you should decline the ride request if you believe the person requesting the ride is under 18. When picking up riders, if you feel they are underage, you may request they provide a driver’s license or ID card for confirmation. If a rider is underage, please do not start the trip or allow them to ride.”
Whereas Lyft says, “Unaccompanied minors are prohibited from traveling with most carriers, including TNCs. A passenger must be 18 to sign up for a Lyft account, but if a driver believes a passenger might be underage, the driver may ask the passenger to confirm their age.” Lyft also adds, “The driver may also let a passenger know that the driver will have to cancel the trip if the passenger is indeed under 18. In addition, drivers can report requests to transport unaccompanied minors by tapping ‘Contact Support’ below.”
If it is obvious that the passenger(s) who you are about to pick up are minors, you should definitely cancel. Do not hesitate to ask for an id if you are unsure but do it in a friendly manner. I like to say, “You guys look pretty young, who has an id to show me they are at least 18? This is for your protection as well as mine.”
Since you are the adult, it is up to you to verify their age. When in doubt it is best to cancel!