How New Uber Drivers Can Start Without Buying a Car in 2026

If you plan to start as an Uber driver in 2026, it does not mean that you have to buy a car right away. Quite a few new drivers make the mistake of purchasing a vehicle before they even understand the job requirements and the income they can make with rideshare. With car prices going up, increased interest rates, and hard-to-predict wear and tear costs, buying a car has turned into a major financial commitment.
The good thing is that drivers new to the industry have a much better choice now, the option to use a rideshare vehicle through rental. Renting a car for rideshare gives newcomers an opportunity to start quickly, check the market, and make money without the burden of ownership. This guide will tell you how to start driving with Uber in 2026 if you do not have a car, what options you have, and how you can make the right decision for your rideshare career.