Are you looking to make extra income by driving for Bolt in Nigeria? Bolt, the popular ride-hailing platform, provides an excellent opportunity for drivers across Nigeria to earn money on their own terms. If you’re in Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, or any other city in Nigeria, becoming a Bolt driver can help you make extra cash while enjoying flexibility. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of registering as a Bolt driver in Nigeria, detailing everything you need to know, from vehicle requirements to commission fees.
What Are the Vehicle Requirements for Bolt Drivers?
Before you start your registration as a Bolt driver, your vehicle must meet certain requirements. The vehicle must be in good condition to ensure safety and comfort for both the driver and passengers. Below are the vehicle specifications you must fulfill:
- For Abuja, Port Harcourt, Owerri, Benin City, Calabar, and Uyo:
- Sedan: Must be manufactured in 2002 or later
- SUV: Must be manufactured in 2001 or later
- The vehicle must have air conditioning.
- The vehicle must have third-party or comprehensive insurance.
- A Roadworthiness Certificate is required.
- For Other Cities in Nigeria:
- Bolt accepts vehicles manufactured in 1998 or later.
These requirements are a must if you want to drive for Bolt. If your vehicle doesn’t meet the specifications, you’ll need to upgrade it before you can register.
How Do You Get Your Vehicle Inspected?
Bolt conducts vehicle inspections to confirm that the car is safe and roadworthy. Inspection checks are done at Bolt’s partner locations and can cost NGN 1200 per vehicle. Inspections are carried out from Monday to Saturday, between 09:00 and 17:00.
It’s important to note that the inspection report is valid for four months, so if you don’t start driving immediately, you won’t have to inspect the vehicle again within that time frame. Vehicles that fail the inspection check will not be accepted onto the platform, so make sure your car meets all requirements before going for inspection.
How Do I Open a Bolt Driver Account?
It’s easy to become a Bolt driver in Nigeria. The registration process is straightforward. Here are the steps to follow:
1. Download the Bolt Driver App
The first step to registering as a driver is to download the Bolt Driver App from the Google Play Store (for Android) or the Apple App Store (for iOS). This app will serve as your primary tool for managing trips, earnings, and other details.
2. Sign Up and Provide Your Personal Information
Once the app is installed, open it and sign up with your personal details, including:
- Full name
- Email address
- Phone number
- Your residential address
You’ll also need to provide a valid driver’s license and other important documents. The registration process is free of charge, so there are no hidden fees to worry about.
3. Upload the Required Documents
After signing up, you’ll be asked to upload the following documents:
- Driver’s license (make sure it’s valid)
- Vehicle documents (including insurance, registration, and roadworthiness certificate)
- Selfie (Bolt may require a selfie to verify your identity)
- Bank details (to receive payments)
Make sure that all your documents are in order, as any discrepancies may delay the registration process.
4. Wait for Approval
After submitting your documents, Bolt will verify them and approve your account. This process typically takes a few days, depending on the volume of applications. Once approved, you’ll receive an email or notification confirming your status as a registered driver.
5. Start Driving and Earning
Once your registration is complete, you can start driving immediately. Log into the app, switch to “Available” mode, and you’re ready to accept ride requests. You can now start earning money by driving passengers to their destinations.
What Fees Should You Expect as a Bolt Driver in Nigeria?
As a Bolt driver, there are a few important fees to be aware of. Bolt charges a commission on each ride you complete, which is automatically deducted from your weekly earnings. The commission rate can range from 15% to 20%, depending on your city.
It’s also important to note that the commission fee applies to both cash and card payments, as well as cancellation fees. However, the commission does not apply to tips, bonuses, or additional fees such as airport fees or toll charges. Bolt makes the deduction automatically, so there’s no need for you to manually calculate or pay it.
In addition to the commission, the only other costs you might incur are those related to vehicle maintenance and the vehicle inspection fee of NGN 1200.
How Much Can You Earn as a Bolt Driver?
Earnings as a Bolt driver in Nigeria can vary depending on a few factors, including your location, the number of hours you work, and the demand for rides. The more trips you complete, the more you earn. Bolt drivers in busy cities like Lagos and Abuja generally earn more due to higher demand.
Additionally, Bolt often offers bonuses or incentives to drivers who meet certain targets or work during peak hours. Keep an eye out for such opportunities to make more money.
How to be a top-rated Bolt Driver
Want to earn more and keep your passengers happy? Here are a few tips.
- Keep a smile on your face: A positive attitude can go a long way in keeping your passengers happy and coming back for more.
- Take good care of your ride: Regular maintenance keeps your car running smoothly and prevents unexpected breakdowns, which can really throw off your day.
- Time your trips right: Rush hour, weekends, and holidays are usually busier, so you might earn more during those times.
- Keep it clean: A clean car is a happy car (and passengers!). It shows that you care about their comfort and can even lead to good tips.
- Safety first: Always follow the rules of the road and drive smoothly. Everyone appreciates a safe and comfortable ride.
Becoming a Bolt driver in Nigeria is a fantastic opportunity to earn extra cash on your own schedule. This guide has shown you how easy it is to get started – from registration to vehicle inspection. Keep your car in tip-top shape, stay organized with your documents, and always go the extra mile for your passengers. With Bolt’s growing presence across Nigeria and the freedom to work when it suits you, you’re well on your way to joining the thriving community of Bolt drivers.
