Rideshare Gigs in PDX (2023 Guide)

Rideshare gigs offer a convenient and adaptable way to earn supplementary income. These platforms allow individuals to set their working hours, giving them the freedom to accommodate other responsibilities, such as family, studies, or full-time jobs.

With the ability to work at peak hours or during special events, drivers can take advantage of surge pricing to maximize their earnings. These easy to use apps provide an accessible entry point for those looking to get into the gig economy.

The benefits of rideshare gigs extend beyond earning extra cash. Drivers can use downtime between rides to listen to audiobooks, music, podcasts, or even study. It’s also a great way to meet a wide array of Portlanders that you wouldn’t normally meet within your normal social circle.

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Rideshare Gigs

Drive people from point A to point B.

Drive with Uber and earn money on your schedule.

Become a Lyft driver and make extra cash.

Drive passengers to and from the airport with Wingz.

List your car on Turo and start making money by renting it out.

List your car on Getaround and start making money by renting it out.

Rent out your car with HyreCar and earn money from rideshare drivers.

Make sure to check out our huge list of even more ways to earn extra cash in PDX.

Frequently Asked Questions

What vehicle requirements do I need to meet?

The vehicle requirements differ by company, but generally, your car should be reliable, in good condition, and not more than 10-15 years old. It must also meet specific criteria such as having four doors and passing vehicle inspections.

What kind of insurance do I need to be a rideshare driver?

While you do need a valid car insurance policy to start, the coverage required for ridesharing can be more complex. Most rideshare companies offer supplementary insurance when you're actively using their app, but this varies by company. It's best to discuss with your insurance provider to ensure you have the right coverage for ridesharing.

How flexible are the working hours?

One advantage of rideshare gigs is flexibility. You can typically log in and out of the app at your discretion, which means you can work as little or as much as you like, depending on your availability.

How does picking up passengers at PDX work for Uber?

Use the Uber App to arrange for your ride. Follow signs to the baggage claim on the lower level. Walk outside, and your pickup is on the side of island 2 closest to the parking garage.
Source: FlyPDX

How does picking up passengers at PDX work for Lyft?

Use the Lyft App to arrange for your ride. Follow signs to the baggage claim on the lower level. Walk outside, and your pickup is on the side of island 2 closest to the terminal.
Source: FlyPDX

How does picking up passengers at PDX work for Wingz?

Use the Wingz website to arrange for your ride. Follow signs to the baggage claim on the lower level. Walk outside, and your pickup is on the side of island 2 closest to the parking garage.
Source: FlyPDX

What are some hotspot locations for rideshare in Portland?

Popular hotspots for rideshare pickups in Portland often include busy areas like the Portland International Airport (PDX), Moda Center, Oregon Convention Center, and popular downtown areas such as the Pearl District. Other high-traffic areas include the Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU), Powell's City of Books, and tourist locations like the Portland Art Museum and Washington Park.

How much can I earn as a rideshare driver?

Earnings vary greatly depending on factors like location, time of day, and the specific platform you're using. You'll earn a base fare plus rates for distance and time, and possibly tips. It's advisable to work during peak hours and in busy areas to maximize your earnings.

Are there any costs involved?

Yes, being a rideshare driver does have costs. You'll be responsible for the maintenance of your vehicle, gas, etc. Some of these costs can be offset by tax deductions.

What happens if a passenger damages my vehicle?

Most rideshare companies have a policy in place to cover damage caused by passengers, but the specifics vary. It's essential to report the incident to the company immediately, provide evidence, and potentially file a claim with your insurance company.

Are there any Portland-specific regulations I should be aware of as a rideshare driver?

Portland requires all rideshare drivers to obtain a business license, and the rideshare company must also have a permit to operate in the city. You're also required to display trade dress (rideshare company's logo) while driving for a rideshare company. Always keep up-to-date with local regulations as they may change. Lyft has a really great summary of the requirements for driving in Portland.

What should I know about driving during Portland's peak event times?

During Portland's peak event times, such as the Rose Festival or music festivals, demand for rideshare services can significantly increase. Be aware of road closures or rerouting, and anticipate heavier-than-usual traffic. You can often earn more during these times due to increased ride prices.

How does the payment process work?

Rideshare companies usually pay drivers on a weekly basis, though there is an option to cash out early for a small fee on some of the platforms. Payments are typically made through direct deposit or through a company-provided debit card. The total pay includes fares from rides and any tips earned, minus any fees or commissions taken by the rideshare company.

What do rideshare platforms look for in background checks?

Rideshare platforms generally conduct background checks that examine major driving offenses, and criminal records. There is typically a strong focus on safe driving, so violations such as DUIs, reckless driving, and serious speeding incidents may cause issues. Major criminal offenses, particularly those involving theft or violence, could also result in disqualification. While each platform maintains its own standards, and exact requirements can vary, overall, they aim to ensure that drivers will be safe and dependable.

How safe is it to be a rideshare driver?

Depending on the company, there may be features like GPS tracking and emergency assistance. However, drivers should always stay alert and aware of their surroundings. If you ever feel uncomfortable with a passenger, trust your instincts and prioritize your safety.

Can I decline a ride request?

Yes, as an independent contractor, you have the freedom to accept or decline ride requests. However, consistently declining requests may impact your driver rating or status with the rideshare company.

What happens if I get a traffic ticket while on a ride?

As an independent contractor, you are accountable for any traffic violations that occur during your rideshare driving. These can potentially impact your standing with the rideshare platform, especially if they lead to points on your license or if they happen while a passenger is in the car. Prioritize driving safely and obeying traffic laws at all times.

Can I get deactivated from rideshare platforms?

Yes, rideshare platforms can deactivate your account, effectively equivalent to being let go. This can occur due to various reasons such as consistent lateness for pickups, non-compliance with platform policies, low passenger ratings, or severe misconduct like harassment.

What if a passenger doesn't show up for their ride?

Every platform has distinct guidelines for handling no-show passengers. Typically, you're advised to wait for a certain period, attempt to contact the passenger, and then get in touch with the platform's support for further guidance. In many instances, if the passenger is not reachable or fails to show up, you may be permitted to cancel the ride and could still receive a cancellation fee.

How do taxes work for rideshare gigs?

As a rideshare driver, you are usually categorized as an independent contractor, which means taxes aren't automatically withheld from your earnings. You'll get a 1099 form from the rideshare platforms you work for (if you make more than a specific threshold), and you are responsible for reporting this income when you do your taxes. You might need to pay self-employment tax and potentially make quarterly estimated tax payments. Keep in mind, you can typically deduct business expenses, such as mileage, from your taxable income. Make sure to consult with a tax professional to ensure you're managing your tax obligations correctly.

How can I track mileage for my rideshare work?

Recording mileage is crucial for tax deductions as you can often subtract work-related mileage from your taxable income. While some rideshare platforms offer in-app mileage tracking, it might not record all deductible miles (like those driven to get to a pickup location). Therefore, many drivers opt to use a separate, dedicated mileage-tracking app or even just a manual log. Always consult with a tax professional to comprehend the best practices for your specific situation.

What are some useful apps for rideshare gig work?

Mileage Tracking Apps:

MileIQ: This app allows for automatic tracking of mileage.

Everlance: This tool allows you to track your mileage, record expenses, and manage receipts for efficient tax preparation.

QuickBooks Self-Employed (QBSE): An app designed to monitor your mileage, classify expenses, and calculate estimated taxes for easier self-employment financial management.

Demand Insights and Analytics Apps:

Gridwise: Supplies drivers with up-to-date data insights, earnings tracking, and airport specifics to help them enhance their rideshare and delivery work.

SherpaShare: Provides detailed views of demand patterns, insights into the local market, and analytics of earnings to help drivers make data-driven decisions and increase their income.

Next Steps

1. Scroll back up to the list of gigs on this page and sign up today!

2. Need more ideas for side hustles in Portland? Check out our giant list of side hustles.