<span>Working for Uber in Portugal is regulated by the TVDE regime (transportation in unmarked vehicles via electronic platforms). The vehicle must meet Uber and IMT requirements, be registered through a TVDE operator, have special insurance, a vehicle inspection, and a TVDE sticker. Requirements vary by category and city (Lisbon, Porto, Algarve, and others). As of January 2026, the emphasis is on eco-friendliness: in large cities, new registrations are often only for electric vehicles in the base and comfort categories.
Basic vehicle requirements
- 4 doors, at least 5 seats (7+ for UberXL), good condition without damage.
- Air conditioning, no commercial markings (except for the TVDE sticker).
- Age is usually 7-10 years from the first registration (more stringent for premium).
- Insurance with TVDE coverage (minimum €50 million liability, passenger protection).
- Documents: DUA, IPO (vehicle inspection), insurance indicating commercial activity.
- Pickup trucks and vans are prohibited without approval.
Uber is updating its model lists. In 2026, new registrations for UberX and Comfort vehicles will be predominantly electric in Lisbon, Porto, Braga, Setúbal, and the Algarve. Black and Comfort vehicles will have strict year and emission regulations.
Uber Categories and Model Examples
UberX (Standard): Sedans and SUVs. Examples: Toyota Corolla, Prius Hybrid; Volkswagen Golf; Hyundai Tucson, Ioniq; Kia Sportage, e-Niro; Renault Megane; Tesla Model 3; BYD Atto 3 (especially new EVs).
Comfort: Newer, more spacious vehicles. Examples: Audi A4/A6; BMW 5-Series; Mercedes E-Class; Volvo S60; Hyundai Santa Fe. Exceptions will be made for some older EVs in 2026.
Black (Premium): Luxury sedans/SUVs. Examples: Mercedes S-Class, GLE; Audi A8, Q7; BMW 7-Series, X5; Tesla Model S; Lexus LS.
UberXL (groups): Minivans/SUVs with 7+ seats. Examples: Mercedes V-Class; Volkswagen Multivan; Kia Carnival; Citroën SpaceTourer; Tesla Model X; Dacia Jogger (7 seats).
Green (eco): Hybrids and electric cars. Examples: Toyota Prius Hybrid; Nissan Leaf; Renault Zoe; Kia EV3; Hyundai Kona Electric; any Tesla.
Check the current list on the Uber website or in the app—it changes (new EV models will be added in 2026).
Car Registration Process
A regular driver cannot add a car to the Uber system themselves. This can only be done by a TVDE operator (a company licensed by the IMT, usually LDA or a similar company with an NIPC starting with 5). You need to join an operator who will arrange insurance, vehicle inspection for TVDE, and add the vehicle. Many drivers work through companies like Austera and RAU Drive, or they create their own companies. Licenses and registration cost €200–€400.
On our website, you can buy a car for Uber directly from the owner, without intermediaries.
The choice of car affects your income: electric and hybrid cars save on fuel and provide priority and bonuses in "green" zones. Popular starting points are the Toyota Prius Hybrid or Tesla Model 3: reliable and affordable.