Driving for Both Lyft and Uber: A Practical Guide for Gig Economy Drivers

As a member of the gig economy, one of the most compelling reasons to work for both ride-sharing giants, Uber and Lyft, is the flexibility it offers. Here’s a detailed guide on how to manage driving for both services simultaneously to maximize your earnings.

Understanding the Landscape: A History of Competition

The saga of competition between Uber and Lyft is one of the most intriguing stories in the ride-sharing industry. In 2014, as Uber was nearing its unicorn status, it reportedly received an offer from Lyft for 15 shares of Uber stock but decided against it. Fast forward to today, Lyft now boasts many features similar to Uber, and both platforms have become nearly indistinguishable in terms of cost and functionality.

Despite sharing many similarities, the number of drivers who work for both Uber and Lyft reports varying from 20% to 40%, according to recent studies. This phenomenon continues largely due to the high demand and the platform’s policies. For example, in 2017, Uber banned drivers from working for competitors as a means to protect market share, but this policy has since been somewhat relaxed.

Why Work for Both?

Drivers who work for both Uber and Lyft benefit from a robust backup plan. Should one service suspend your account for any reason, the other provides an instant alternative. Additionally, managing dual platforms can help you diversify your income streams, ensuring a steady flow of earnings.

Setting Up and Managing Dual Platforms

Sign up for both Uber and Lyft individually and follow their respective instructions and policies. Start by signing up with one of them, and once your account is verified, sign up with the other. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Sign up for Lyft first, as their approval process typically comes through faster. You can start getting verified and ready for your first rides.

After your Lyft account is approved, sign up for Uber. Just make sure to wait until the approval process is finalized.

Once both applications are approved, download both apps on your device and familiarize yourself with their policies and procedures.

Begin driving for each service on alternate days to avoid complications. Once you have enough experience, you can alternate between the two apps as needed.

Note: When dealing with incoming requests from both apps, it’s crucial to manage the apps efficiently. Switching between them while driving can be dangerous, so it’s advisable to use tools like MyStro. MyStro is a powerful app designed to manage multiple ride-sharing platforms, automatically accepting rides and managing app switching, ensuring safety and efficiency.

Managing Your Schedule and Safety

When driving for both Uber and Lyft, it’s essential to manage your schedule meticulously. Here are some tips to help you stay organized and safe:

Switch off the less-prioritized app: When a ride request comes from one app, quickly switch off the other app to avoid double bookings.

Use MyStro: Consider subscribing to MyStro to automate the app switching process and ensure you focus on driving safely.

Keep your vicinity in mind: Since Lyft isn’t as well-known as Uber where you live, prioritize Uber to ensure you get a steady stream of fares.

Stay updated: Keep an eye on both apps to ensure you don’t miss out on rides from either service.

By following these steps, you can effectively manage driving for both Uber and Lyft, maximizing your earnings while ensuring safety and flexibility.

In conclusion, working for both Uber and Lyft can be a viable and lucrative option in the gig economy. With careful management and the right tools, you can navigate the complex world of ride-sharing with ease.