Apr 8, 2024
Driving with Bolt is a flexible way to make money. But there are two ways to do it — as a self-employed driver or by joining a fleet. In this blog post, we’ll explain these options and their differences to determine which works best for you.
Disclaimer: This overview highlights the common distinctions between earning as an ‘independent driver’ and a ‘fleet driver.’ Since laws and regulations for drivers and fleets vary by country and region, it’s crucial for you to research and understand the specific differences relevant to your location, as well as the options available to you, in addition to reading this note.
In the context of ride-hailing, “fleet” is a transport company that manages multiple vehicles or drivers.
Fleet owners often partner with Bolt to reach more passengers.
For drivers, joining a fleet is the easiest way to start making money with Bolt. Fleets may help drivers with paperwork, car rental and maintenance, insurance, accounting, and other services — for a percentage of earnings or a flat fee.
Becoming a Bolt partner driver as a self-employed or by joining a fleet offer different dynamics and considerations.
Here are some key differences between these 2 options in countries where Bolt operates.
In some countries, only private individuals are allowed to offer ride-hailing services. In others, only companies (fleets). And in some, both are allowed.
How to find out what the law is in your country?
Check your local guide on becoming a Bolt partner driver to see which rules apply.
In many countries, if you indicate that you don’t have a company or a car when signing up as a Bolt driver, we’ll automatically offer you to join a fleet.
Most of the time, you need a ride-hailing or a taxi licence to make money driving. While both individuals and businesses can acquire one, it may sometimes cost tens of thousands of euros!
In those countries, joining (or starting) a fleet and sharing the costs makes much more sense.
You may be able to join a fleet with your own vehicle, but fleets usually have a number of cars that they rent out to drivers for a fee or commission.
So joining a fleet is an excellent solution:
As a self-employed driver, you can earn more per ride since you don’t have to share your earnings with a fleet. Especially since Bolt has no minimum hours, no earning caps, and zero tips fees.
However, you’re also responsible for covering your expenses, such as fuel and maintenance. Effective cost management becomes crucial to maximising your overall income.
Fleets may offer a fixed salary, split the revenue, or ask for a fee or a share of your earnings to manage the business and cars. While this means a portion of your earnings goes to the company, fleets often provide benefits like insurance coverage, vehicle maintenance, and even bonuses. If you prefer more stability in your earnings, then a fleet may be the way for you.
One of the main attractions of being a ride-hailing driver is the freedom to set your own schedule. You have the autonomy to earn when and where you choose, allowing you to balance driving with other commitments.
While this kind of independence may be appealing, it may also require exceptional time management skills.
Joining a fleet often comes with more structured schedules. While some fleets offer flexibility, others may require drivers to adhere to specific shifts or time slots. This can be advantageous if you prefer a more predictable routine or stable income.
Self-employed drivers are responsible for their vehicles. This means dealing with the costs of ownership, maintenance, and repairs. However, you’ll have more control over your choice of vehicle.
Fleet owners often take care care of vehicle maintenance and repairs. Operational costs may be covered or shared, saving you money.
As a self-employed driver, you must stay informed about local regulations, licencing, and compliance matters — you’re accountable for independently meeting these requirements.
The fleet is responsible for ensuring drivers comply with regulations and requirements, including licences and insurance.
So, the choice between being a self-employed or a fleet driver depends greatly on individual preferences, including the level of control and responsibility you’re comfortable with.
Sign up on our website and follow the instructions. The exact requirements depend on your country, but you must be of legal age, own a driving license, and have driving experience. You’ll need to present the necessary documents and complete an onboarding course.
Let us know while signing up as a driver if you don’t have a car to drive with, and we’ll help you find partner fleets or rental companies with vehicles that meet our requirements.
We’ll help you find a local fleet if you indicate you’d like to join one when signing up as a driver.
Depending on local legislation, joining a fleet may be the fastest and most affordable way to become a ride-hailing driver. Fleets may take care of vehicle maintenance, offer a more stable income, take care of paperwork, help share operational costs and offer other benefits some drivers prefer. Many fleets also provide a vehicle to drive with.
Bolt has over 100 million customers in 500+ cities worldwide, ensuring fleets plenty of earning opportunities around the clock. Fleet owners can manage their fleet with Bolt’s Fleet Owner Portal, which helps them easily oversee and grow their transport business.
Legislation regarding ride-hailing and fleets may vary by country and region. The information in this blog post is intended to be a general guide and may not apply to your location. We recommend checking your local laws and regulations before making any decisions.
