California Orders Uber to Fingerprint Drivers for Teen Rides

2024-12-20

The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) ruled that Uber must fingerprint drivers for its teen ride-hailing service, Uber for Teens, to continue operating in the state. This decision stems from safety concerns regarding unaccompanied minors. While Uber has historically resisted fingerprint-based background checks, the CPUC cited the importance of protecting children from potential sexual offenders. The ruling significantly impacts Uber's operations, while competitor HopSkipDrive, which already employs stricter safety measures including fingerprinting, supports the decision. The added cost of fingerprinting may lead to higher prices for Uber's teen ride service.