Being an Uber Driver in DC and Northern Virginia

Where to go to find consistent Uber riders in the Washington DC and Northern Virginia Area

Where to Go (read to the end)

Don’t think you’ll figure out a route for getting the best fares in just a few months. A lot variables are involved on the where, when, how and whys of finding riders. The day, time, month, weather, and location are huge factors. You can make the same amount of money in four hours as another driver earns in seven or eight. It’s all about driving smart, not working too hard. Furthermore, consider your quality of life as a driver; you can accept everyone and go to DC during rush-hour to get more requests, as I did in my first year, or stay in your community and be closer to home and family, as I’m currently doing now. I was happy doing both, but my choices were about the quality of life I’ve chosen for myself, not greed.

Speaking of quality of life, I stayed away from late night bars, so I can’t make any suggestions on this topic; in the 5000+ riders I’ve picked up, only one managed to throw up in my car, which basically ended my Thursday night and cost her $150 of cleaning fee charged by Uber and reimbursed to my account (I took a lot of pictures). Being totally honest, I’ve read and heard too many unappealing stories dealing with inebriated riders; I just don’t need that kind a stress in my life.

Find your ideal route and stay away from the interstate. There are many routes out there and you’ll figure it out on your own; don’t trust the chatter from other blogs and/or advice from other drivers. Seriously, why would I give you my ideal route? Yes, DC is a small but profitable area. But where to go and at what time is something you need to figure out yourself. All hours of the day and everyday is ideal, but it’s where you need to be. If you’re daring, Southeast DC (east of the Annacostia River) is a gem and a power surge, but it’s also, well, let’s just say there’s a reason why Uber pays good money for you to pick up riders there. Personally, I’ve driven people to their destination that leads me east of the river, but once I’ve dropped them off safely, I turn the app off and drive out as fast as I can. Coincidentally, most cities and counties have their “danger zones” as well, so be cognizant of it. Trust you gut. Safety first.

UPDATE

I’ve decided to provide two routes that have been successful for me:

The 29 Pipeline

This is Route 29 that runs from Centreville to Arlington, VA. This is the best Northern VA route if you live in the surrounding counties. I’ve tried Route 236 and Route 50 as well, but The 29 Pipeline, as I call it, is the best option because you’ll get frequent requests (chimes) at any time and any day. You might be wondering about the infamous Route 7 corridor that runs from Tyson’s Corner to Arlington; well, I did say “infamous” right? This route is littered with constant (stop & go and heavy) traffic that can and will put a strain on your heart-rate. You can give it a try, but don’t say I didn’t warn you :-)

As of this update, I only drive for Uber on weekends now and I still use the 29 Pipeline route with great success. Give it a try.

The Connecticut (Avenue) Corridor

I’m sure you’ve already guessed that DC is Uber Heaven; which is why every driver goes there. However, traffic will put a hurting on your car if you’re not careful; DC roads are poorly managed and rush-hour traffic is maddening to say the least. The best and safest route I use is what I call the Connecticut Corridor in Northwest. I usually go up (to the zoo) and down (to Constitution Ave) using this route because of the residents and restaurants that are along Connecticut Ave. Residents surrounding this route are affluent and they have no problem paying “uber”dollars (I had to say it) to take them just 3 or 4 miles downtown. During the weekends, they use Uber to go to brunch, the gym, the nearest park, and church. Of course, restaurants along this corridor will offer drivers to take Mr. and Mrs Affluent back home; these are why I really like this route.

I no longer go to DC that often, but if a ride takes me across the Potomac River, I usually visit this route and receive consistent “chimes” for rides.