If you have a car and want to make some extra money, there are a handful of driving apps that allow you to work a flexible schedule – but which one is right for you?
Our top pick, Lyft stands out because drivers can cash out earnings at any time, plus new drivers (of any gender) can earn a $400 bonus by giving 40 rides in 7 days. Terms apply.
This guide highlights the top rideshare apps and driving jobs so you can determine which is best for you in 2025. We will focus on requirements, key features, and what sets each of these jobs apart.
🏆 Top Pick: Lyft
1. Lyft
New Lyft drivers can earn a $400 bonus by giving 40 rides in 7 days. Terms apply.
You probably recognize Lyft as one of the leading rideshare platforms, and they launched a Women+ Connect feature to help women and nonbinary drivers and riders feel more in-control of their ride experience*. Drivers get all of the flexibility and bonus offers that Lyft is known for, with the added benefit of increased chances to match with women and nonbinary riders.
If you’re interested in driving with Lyft, you must meet the following requirements:
- You’re at least 25 years old
- You own an iPhone or Android smartphone
- You have a clean driving record and auto insurance
- You have an eligible 4-door vehicle (car year varies by region)
- You consent to a criminal background check and review of your driving record
How to Get Started:
New drivers (of any gender) can earn a $400 bonus with 40 rides in 7 days. Terms apply.2. Uber
You have multiple options for rideshare companies, and Uber has become a top pick for anyone who wants to make money driving. What stands out the most about Uber is that you can quickly switch between driving for Uber and Uber Eats.
Key Features:
- Uber app available 24/7
- Wide availability in many cities
- Flexible work hours
Requirements: Meet minimum age to drive in your city, have at least one year of licensed driving experience in the U.S. (3 years experience required if you are under 25), in-state license, eligible 4-door vehicle, proof of residency, proof of insurance, and complete background check.
3. DoorDash
The best part-time driving jobs don’t always mean driving people – DoorDash offers flexible hours, delivering food, groceries, and convenience store items.
Key Features:
- Can set your own schedule
- Largest food delivery market share in U.S.
- Can deliver by bike, scooter, or on foot in some markets
Requirements: Drivers must submit to a background check, be at least legal driving age in your city, have a valid driver’s license, have auto insurance, have a clean driving record, and Social Security number if delivering in the U.S.
4. HopSkipDrive
HopSkipDrive is one of the top rideshare apps, except you are driving kids aged 7-17 to and from school and afterschool activities. Drivers are called CareDrivers and must complete a 15-point certification process to be approved.
Key Features:
- HopSkipDrive is used to supplement school buses, primarily for kids with disabilities and special needs
- Limited to a handful of major cities in the U.S.
- High pay rate
Requirements: Must have a clean driver’s record, flawless driving criminal record, be at least 23 years old, own a 4-door vehicle that’s not older than 10 years old, and pass a background check.
5. Amazon Flex
With this popular driving job, you work as a contractor for Amazon Flex to deliver packages for Amazon using your own vehicle. You pick the hours you work and are paid directly by Amazon.
Key Features:
- Must reserve block of delivery hours in advance
- Pay via direct deposit
- Having a larger vehicle helps
Requirements: Drivers must live in an eligible city, be at least 21 years old, have a valid driver’s license, have a Social Security number, have a checking or savings account, and have access to a personally-insured midsize or larger vehicle.
Driving App Comparison:
| Delivery App | Flexibility | Tips | Bonuses |
| Lyft | High | Yes | Yes |
| Uber | High | Yes | Yes |
| DoorDash | High | Yes | Yes |
| HopSkipDrive | Moderate | No | Sometimes |
| Amazon Flex | Moderate | Yes | Yes |
Why Choose Lyft?
As you can tell, there are plenty of driving apps like Uber and Lyft out there, but Lyft is our top pick because they have an excellent new driver bonus: $400 bonus by giving 40 rides in 7 days.
Plus, Lyft is committed to ensuring safety for drivers and riders of all genders with their new Women+ Connect* feature.
Drivers get all of the flexibility and bonus offers that Lyft is known for, with the added benefit of increased chances to match with women and nonbinary riders, making it a great choice for anyone who wants to make money with their car.
Get Started With LyftFinal Thoughts
When choosing a driving app to work for, Lyft stands out for its flexibility, safety, and ease of use. If you’re looking to maximize your earnings and enjoy a flexible work schedule, Lyft is the way to go.
Sign Up for Lyft Today*This is not a safety feature and cannot guarantee safety, but it can help women and non-binary users have more choice.