Uber/Bolt drivers earn an average of GHS 13K a month, five times more than 80% of public sector employees

In many parts of the world, especially in African countries such as Ghana, Nigeria, and South Africa, ride-hailing jobs like Uber and Bolt are often dismissed or viewed as a last resort, something people only turn to when things get tough. Society tends to ignore the hard work behind the wheel, forgetting that some of these drivers are graduates, family men, and hustlers chasing daily bread in a system that’s far from easy.

You’ve probably heard the popular demeaning phrase “he’s just a Bolt driver” or “he’s doing Uber small-small,” but what if we told you that some of these drivers are quietly making more in a month than white collar workers with 9-to-5 jobs?

From covering daily expenses to saving for bigger dreams, many Uber and Bolt drivers in Ghana are turning the steering wheel into serious income, especially those who understand the craft of the business.

How much do some drivers earn in a month in Ghana?

A video shared by popular TikToker and business coach, Daniel D. Thompson revealed the shocking amount Uber and Bolt drivers make monthly in Ghana. In the video, Daniel spoke to some drivers of ride-hailing apps, asking how much they earn as well as their daily expenses.

One Bolt driver whom he spoke to revealed that he makes GHS 1,000 in daily sales, from which he deducts GHS 200 for fuel and 25% Bolt commission (GHS 250). After all deductions are made from his 12-hour daily hustle, the driver walks away with GHS 550 net earnings.

By the end of the week, the driver takes home roughly GHS 3,300, which adds up to a whopping GHS 13,200 monthly. This figure is well above the average monthly net salary for public sector employees in Ghana, which stood at GHS 2,594 in 2022, according to a report by the Ghana Statistical Service (GSS). 

According to the 2022 report, more than 80% of public sector workers earn less than GHS 3,000 per month. It also revealed that although the maximum salary in the sector is GHS 33,000, the top 10% of earners in the public sector receive 22% of the total salaries paid by the government. This was disclosed by Government Statistician Professor Samuel Kobina Annim during the release of the 2022 report on Earnings Inequality in the Public Sector.

“Eighty percent of public sector workers earn less than GHS 3,000. If you take every five employees, four of them earn less than GHS 3,000,” Professor Annim stated.

While many people tend to look down on ride-hailing jobs, this revelation is a wake-up call. It proves that with discipline, long hours, and smart financial planning, platforms like Uber and Bolt can be highly profitable.

However, if you are considering joining these silent “wealthy” drivers in their ride-hailing services, whether you’re looking to drive yourself or start a fleet, here’s a full breakdown of the steps and requirements to get started:

Become a driver-partner (Drive your own car)

This is for people who want to register themselves and their car to work and earn directly on the platform.

1. Own or access a car that meets requirements (see car list below).
2. Apply online: Uber Ghana registration or Bolt Ghana registration
3. Upload required documents (see list below)
4. Undergo screening and training:
   • Uber offers an online onboarding process.
   • Bolt may invite you for a quick info session or video call.
5. Download the Driver App and start taking trips after approva

Become a vehicle owner (Hire a driver)

This option is for those who want to register a vehicle and hire a driver to operate it. You’ll earn passively while your driver works.

1. Register as a partner/fleet owner.
2. Submit required vehicle and driver documents.
3. Find a reliable driver (or use Uber/Bolt to connect you).
4. Track trips and earnings through the dashboard.

Vehicle requirements: The car must:

• Be 4-door sedan or hatchback
• Be 2005 model or newer (some platforms prefer 2010+)
• Have working air conditioning
• Be roadworthy and in good condition
• Be registered with DVLA in Ghana

Popular accepted cars:

• Toyota Corolla
• Hyundai Elantra
• Kia Picanto / Cerato
• Nissan Versa / Almera
• Suzuki Dzire
• Honda Civic
• Toyota Yaris

Documents needed (for Drivers and Vehicle Owners)

For Driver:
Valid Ghanaian driver’s license (Category B or above)
National ID (Ghana Card)
Police Clearance Certificate (Uber requires this)
Passport photo
Medical report (optional for some platforms)
Driver profile photo (clear, professional)

For Car:
DVLA Registration Certificate (Logbook)
Roadworthiness Certificate
Valid Car Insurance (at least third-party)
Vehicle Inspection Report (from Uber/Bolt)
Vehicle must pass a quality check