Rideshare Appeals FAQs

Knowledgeable Rideshare Lawyer Helping Uber and Lyft Drivers Navigate the Administrative Appeal Process

If you’ve been denied a background check certificate or deactivated as a rideshare driver in Massachusetts, it can feel like you’re stuck with no clear answers. Below are some of the most common questions from drivers facing DPU disqualifications or platform suspensions. For personal advice on your specific situation, reach out to the Law Office of Patrick J. Murphy to speak with a trusted Boston rideshare appeals attorney.

1. Why was I denied clearance to drive for Uber or Lyft in Massachusetts?

Most denials come from the Department of Public Utilities (DPU) background check, which looks at your criminal and driving history. Common disqualifiers include recent OUI offenses, violent crimes, certain felonies, or even unresolved charges. Some drivers are also flagged because of very old or sealed records that still appear in the system.

2. I was already driving and just got suspended—what happened?

Suspensions usually occur when something new appears on your record, such as an arrest, charge, or conviction. In some cases, periodic background check updates may flag old records that were missed the first time. You may be able to challenge the suspension if the flagged offense isn’t actually disqualifying or was recorded in error.

3. How long do I have to file a rideshare appeal?

You typically have 20 days from the date of the DPU’s decision to submit a formal appeal. It’s important to act quickly—waiting too long can result in permanent disqualification. If your platform (like Uber or Lyft) took the action independently, their deadlines may vary and require immediate action.

4. Can I still appeal if my case was dismissed or continued without a finding?

Yes. Even dismissed cases or CWOFs (continued without a finding) may still show up during a background check and trigger a disqualification. A Boston rideshare appeals attorney can help present evidence of the case resolution and explain why it should not count against you under current law.

5. Will Uber or Lyft reinstate me automatically after I win my appeal?

Not always. Even if the DPU reverses the disqualification, the rideshare company still has discretion to keep you deactivated. However, with proper legal representation and communication, many drivers are reinstated once the official barrier is removed.

6. What documents do I need for a successful appeal?

You should gather certified court records, police reports, proof of case resolution (if applicable), and any documentation showing that the flagged offense was not disqualifying. In some cases, personal statements or character references may also help. An attorney can help you identify what’s most persuasive.

7. Can I appeal if I was charged but never convicted?

Yes. Charges without a conviction are often misunderstood by the DPU or background screening services. You may be able to show that the charge was resolved in your favor or falls outside the required lookback period.

8. Is it worth hiring a lawyer for a rideshare appeal?

Absolutely. These appeals involve strict deadlines, legal terminology, and procedural rules. A Boston rideshare appeals attorney can help you understand why you were denied, gather the right evidence, and advocate effectively to get your clearance reinstated or your account reactivated.

9. Can I seal my record to fix the problem?

In some cases, sealing a record can help long-term, but it won’t immediately reverse a disqualification unless you also submit an appeal. Additionally, some offenses are not eligible for sealing, and the rideshare platform may still choose to deactivate you. Speak with a lawyer before taking this step.

10. What if I have multiple issues on my record?

If you have more than one disqualifying event, it’s even more important to get legal help. Each issue may require different documentation and arguments. A skilled attorney can review your full history and help you decide the most effective path forward.

You Don’t Have to Fight a Rideshare Appeal Alone

At the Law Office of Patrick J. Murphy, we know how much your rideshare job means to you—and how frustrating it is to lose it because of a background check. As a dedicated Boston rideshare appeals attorney, Patrick Murphy works with drivers across Massachusetts to fight denials, clear up records, and get you back on the road. Call (617) 367-0450 today to schedule your free consultation.