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If you drive for Uber Eats, there’s a big update to how your performance is measured. Uber is introducing a new metric called the on-time rate, along with updates to the Uber Eats Pro program that reward top-performing drivers. These changes mean your success depends not just on how many deliveries you complete, but also on how reliably and efficiently you deliver them.
Why The New On-Time Rate Matters
The new on-time rate is designed to measure how often you arrive at restaurants and customer locations within the time the app expects. It’s part of a bigger push to reward drivers who deliver quickly, safely, and on schedule.
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Maintaining a strong on-time rate helps you qualify for Uber Eats Pro tiers such as Gold, Platinum, and Diamond. Higher tiers come with better rewards, including priority access to high-value orders and additional benefits that make your time on the road more profitable.
However, if your performance metrics drop below the thresholds, your tier status can be downgraded. Staying consistent with your deliveries will help you maintain access to better opportunities and earnings.
Updated Uber Eats Pro Metrics
The following table shows the key requirements for each tier under the updated system. Note that thresholds may vary by market.
| Tier | Acceptance Rate | Cancellation Rate | Satisfaction Rate | On-Time Rate | Points to Qualify |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gold | 30% or higher (50% in some markets) | 8% or less | 90% or higher | 70% or higher | 25 points |
| Platinum | 50% or higher (70% in some markets) | 5% or less | 92% or higher | 80% or higher | 50 points |
| Diamond | 50% or higher (70% in some markets) | 5% or less | 92% or higher | 80% or higher | Varies by city |
Note: The on-time rate is currently active in select pilot markets and will expand to more areas in the future.
Understanding the On-Time Rate
Your on-time rate measures how often you arrive at both the restaurant and the drop-off location within the app’s estimated time. It’s based on your last 200 arrivals.
Here’s what counts:
- Pick-up arrival: When you reach the restaurant or store after accepting an order.
- Drop-off arrival: When you reach the customer’s location after picking up the order.
- Waiting time: Any time spent waiting for food to be prepared or waiting for the customer does not count against your on-time rate.
- Batch orders: If you deliver multiple orders in one trip, each drop-off is measured separately.
When you first start delivering, your on-time rate begins at 100% and updates after your first few deliveries.
Tips to Improve Your On-Time Rate
- Head straight to the pickup location. Once you accept an order, start driving right away instead of waiting nearby.
- Use navigation efficiently. Check traffic and choose the best route before starting the trip.
- Know your local restaurants. Some spots are fast, others take longer. Plan your workflow to avoid consistent delays.
- Manage batch orders carefully. Treat each stop as its own delivery and prioritize speed between drop-offs.
- Avoid unnecessary cancellations. Every completed trip helps your overall metrics and can lift your on-time average.
- Plan your shifts smartly. Work in zones and times where traffic is lighter and restaurants operate smoothly.
What You Can Do Right Now
- Check your Uber Eats Pro Hub. You’ll see your acceptance, cancellation, satisfaction, and on-time rate if it’s active in your area.
- Set personal goals. Aim for an 80% or higher on-time rate and low cancellation numbers to move up tiers.
- Track your progress. Since points and status reset monthly, check in weekly to make sure you’re on target.
- Stay professional and safe. Timeliness matters, but safety comes first. Use defensive driving and stay calm even during busy shifts. And remember, no delivery is worth risking the safety of yourself or others.
The Bottom Line
The new on-time rate marks a shift in how Uber measures driver performance. It rewards reliability, consistency, and professionalism. By focusing on on-time arrivals, maintaining strong acceptance and satisfaction scores, and minimizing cancellations, you’ll put yourself in the best position for higher-paying orders and better Uber Eats Pro rewards.
Deliver smart, stay efficient, and use these standards as a roadmap for growth in 2026.
Published by Uber, original source: “Piloting on-time rate as a new criteria for Uber Eats Pro”, Uber Blog, September 16, 2025.
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