Starting this month, there is a new way to get around Orlando, and it’s called Uber.

If you travel, you’re familiar with the service. It pairs up independent contracted drivers with people who need a ride. There is a set fee based on mileage and Uber takes a cut with the driver getting the rest.

Local drivers must qualify under Uber’s strict criteria, including having a car no older than 2005, and having current vehicle insurance. All drivers must also pass a three-step background check which includes county and federal court records going back seven years, a multi-state criminal database check going back seven years, the National Sex Offender Registry, and motor vehicle records check. Drivers must not have any convictions on the list for the past seven years at least, and no severe driving violations.

So how does it work? To find out, I took Uber for a test drive.

First I downloaded the app and signed up with Uber, entering my billing information. Then I did a couple of free fare quotes.

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