To ensure that CareDrivers and riders are safe, it is important to follow all the verification steps on every ride. At pickup, follow the guidelines below.
Use only the vehicle on file
As a CareDriver, you must always use the approved vehicle listed on your profile to drive with HopSkipDrive. This is important because:
- Only vehicles that have passed the required safety inspection can be used to drive for HopSkipDrive.
- Riders, caregivers, and Ride Organizers receive information about the make, model, and license plate number of the CareDriver's vehicle to make sure they get in the correct car.
If you need to switch to a different vehicle, you must update your account and provide all required information before using the new vehicle to drive with HopSkipDrive. Learn more here: Updating Your Vehicle on File.

Display your decals on the front and back windshield
Many local regulations require CareDrivers to display decals visibly on the bottom right corner of front and rear windshields, or as per state requirements. Failure to comply may lead to penalties from local authorities or denial of pickups which won't be compensated. If you have not received your decals in the mail, you can print out temporary decals here.
Learn more about HopSkipDrive gear.

Use the code words and birthday
Confirming the rider's code word and birthday are a key way to check that you're picking up the correct rider, and confirm to them that they are getting in the correct car. Keep in mind that at some locations there may be multiple riders expecting HopSkipDrive rides.
When you locate your rider, tell them the code word to confirm that you are the correct CareDriver for them. Then, ask the rider to tell you their date of birth. If their answer matches what is listed in the app, you can be confident you are picking up the correct rider.
Once all security steps have been confirmed, tap Confirm Pickup. If there are multiple riders on the ride, you'll need to do this for each one.
You must follow this process for each rider on the ride, and each time you drive the rider, regardless of whether you've driven them before.

Bring your valid driver's license with you
A valid driver's license is required whenever operating a motor vehicle. It's also important to have your ID with you, as some locations may have additional safety protocols for pickup or drop-off that require you to be able to show identification.