Are Uber and Lyft drivers self-employed? If you drive for Uber or Lyft, you are self-employed. As a driver for either company, you are an independent contractor rather than an employee. As an independent contractor, you provide transportation services to individuals.

Driving for Uber is primarily classified as independent contract work, though the legal definitions are currently evolving in 2026. As an independent contractor (often documented via a 1099 form in the U.S.), a driver has the "autonomy of a freelancer"—choosing when, where, and for how long they work—without a fixed schedule or a direct supervisor. However, unlike traditional freelance work where you might negotiate rates directly with a client, Uber drivers must use the company's proprietary algorithm and pricing structure. This "gig economy" model means drivers are responsible for their own taxes, health insurance, and vehicle maintenance costs. While some jurisdictions like California and parts of Europe have introduced "hybrid" models that provide some employee-like benefits (such as minimum earnings guarantees), the core relationship remains a business-to-business contract where the driver is technically an individual proprietor utilizing Uber's lead-generation technology to find passengers.