Uber hopes to have more than 50 drivers on the road for NT launch in August

UBER  hopes to have more than 50 drivers on the road when it starts operating in the Top End in late August

Uber  hopes to have more than 50 drivers on the road when it starts operating in the Top End in late August

UBER  hopes to have more than 50 drivers on the road when it starts operating in late August.

The ride sharing company has three information sessions for prospective drivers in Darwin and Palmerston this week.

Uber’s NT/Queensland manager Alex Golden said there had been plenty of ­interest from potential drivers through the Uber driver app.

“We’ve seen a huge amount of interest from riders in ­Darwin already with tens of thousands signing up or ­opening the app, and strong ­interest from potential driver-partners as well,” Mr Golden said. “Based on the interest we’ve seen, we’re hoping to see over 50 drivers complete the government accreditation process, and be ready to hit the road from day one.

“Drivers using the Uber app can earn money whenever they choose, including around other jobs, studies or ­commitments.

GET SENNHEISER HEADPHONES WITH AN NT NEWS SUBSCRIPTION

“We know this flexibility appeals to many, including retirees looking to supplement their retirement incomes; or people looking to save some extra money by driving on the weekends or in the holiday period.”

To be eligible to drive for Uber you must be at least 21 and have held a valid full driver’s licence in the Territory for at least a year.

Drivers must also have a four-door vehicle; and be listed as an insured driver for the ­vehicle they wish to drive. Uber’s driver app takes you through these steps.

The decision to offer Uber in the NT came after the booking app was opened more than 90,000 times.

The information sessions are designed to provide details on what is required to be a driver and will also offer tips on how to be successful as a driver.

The first two sessions will be held at Rydges Hotel Darwin (formerly Darwin Central) in Knuckey St. One session will start at 12.30pm with the second session starting at 6pm.

The third session will be held at Rydges Palmerston on Friday. It will start at 12.30pm.

Another ride sharing option, Hi Oscar, is already operating in Darwin.

At the weekend it had as many as 15 drivers accepting rides across Darwin.