Uber, Lyft, and other rideshare companies consider their drivers as independent contractors, not employees. Drivers who meet criminal background, driving history, and vehicle requirements can sign up and begin giving rides almost immediately. Rideshare companies do not interview or require drivers to go through a lengthy hiring process. After passing a basic screening, drivers log on to Uber or Lyft, start giving rides, and accepting money from their customers. The companies take a portion of the fare and drivers keep the rest.