Rideshare apps are commonplace nationwide. It’s all too familiar to see would-be riders summon rides near popular bars, restaurants, and venues. Sometimes, riders require rides to and from dangerous places. So, can an Uber driver carry a gun while using the app to transport passengers?

Company policies prohibit an Uber driver from carrying a gun while using the platform– but that doesn’t stop everyone

An Uber driver cannot legally carry a gun while they work, per the company’s policies. As such, an Uber driver who violates the company policy can expect to be dismissed from the platform. The popular rideshare app considers it a move with passenger (and driver) safety in mind. 

However, it’s not just drivers. Riders, guests, and delivery drivers are also prohibited from carrying firearms in Uber rideshares. That means you technically can’t take a firearm with you on your next ride with the app. 

According to Uber policies, “Riders and their guests, as well as drivers and delivery people, are prohibited from carrying firearms while using the Uber platform, to the extent permitted by applicable law. Anyone who violates this policy may lose access to Uber.”

It’s not just Uber, either. Popular platform Lyft also has a strict “No Weapons” policy for drivers and riders. The policy forbids firearms but also extends to other weapons like tasers and knives. Of course, the brand has a caveat for licensed security professionals and police officers. 

However, that doesn’t stop rideshare drivers from carrying guns to protect themselves. One example on Reddit featured a driver-sourced poll on the subject. In the four-question survey, most participating Uber drivers said they have or regularly do carry a concealed firearm while driving with passengers. 

The most common rationale? Something along the lines of having a gun while they work as an Uber driver when they need it. After all, a passenger in the back seat has the positional advantage over a driver in an altercation.