California Tightens Safety Rules for Uber Drivers Transporting Minors
Uber now has 30 days to implement fingerprint-based background checks for drivers transporting unaccompanied teens in California, following a landmark ruling by the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC). The decision, issued Thursday, applies to all ride-hail and taxi services carrying minors without adult supervision.
Key Requirements of the CPUC Ruling:
- Fingerprint Background Checks: Mandatory for all drivers transporting unaccompanied minors
- Cost Responsibility: Transportation companies must cover the expense of these checks
- Enhanced Safety Protocols: Companies must disclose their live trip tracking systems, pickup/drop-off procedures, and specialized driver training for minors
Uber’s Historical Resistance to Fingerprinting
This ruling marks a significant shift for Uber, which has long opposed fingerprint requirements. In 2017, the company successfully blocked similar measures, arguing that:
- Its current name-based background checks (conducted through Checkr) are sufficient
- Fingerprinting creates unnecessary barriers for potential drivers
- The requirement could disproportionately affect minority communities
However, the CPUC emphasized that transporting minors requires higher safety standards. “When adults are entrusted with minors, they assume responsibility for California’s most vulnerable citizens,” the ruling stated. “Failing to conduct fingerprint checks could expose children to potentially dangerous situations.”
The Uber for Teens Controversy
Uber launched its teen service (for ages 13-17) in February 2024, prompting immediate regulatory scrutiny. Key developments include:
- February 2024: CPUC warns Uber to suspend the service pending resolution of 2016 background check rules
- March 2024: Uber seeks clarification on “primarily” transporting minors clause
- July 2024: Company reveals fewer than 10% of rides involve unaccompanied minors
The ruling requires Uber to participate in California’s Trustline program, which:
- Uses fingerprinting to screen for criminal history
- Checks against the Child Abuse Central Index
- Is maintained by the California Department of Social Services
Safety Concerns and Legal Challenges
While Uber touts its safety features (including live tracking and high-rated drivers), the company faces criticism:
- Two South Carolina families sued Uber in July 2024 after alleged assaults on teen passengers
- Critics argue ride-hail services don’t do enough to prevent child trafficking risks
- CPUC notes Uber’s $150 billion market cap should allow it to absorb fingerprinting costs
Competitive Implications
The ruling benefits HopSkipDrive, a child-focused ride service that:
- Already requires fingerprint checks for its “CareDrivers”
- Uses 15-point certification including caregiving experience
- Implements telematics for real-time safety monitoring
What’s Next for Uber?
Uber must now:
- Implement fingerprint checks within 30 days
- Develop enhanced safety protocols for teen transport
- Absorb the cost of background checks without passing it to customers
The company hasn’t commented on whether it will appeal the decision or how it will implement the new requirements.
Editor’s Note: This article was updated to clarify the timeline of Uber’s regulatory interactions in California.
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