A Romanian Uber driver has contacted Driver Matty after receiving an in-app update confirming a significant change to Uber’s commission structure in Romania.
According to the message shared with DM News, Uber will reduce its standard commission for drivers from 25% down to 20%, effective 3 February 2026. The change applies to all completed trips and represents a lower-than-standard commission compared to Uber’s usual 25% model used in many cities.
The update was shared directly by a Romanian Uber driver, along with a screenshot of the official Uber communication, which will be published alongside this article.
Word-for-word translation of Uber’s message (Romanian → English)
“Uber commission is changing
Starting from 3 February 2026, the Uber commission will become 20% for all trips you complete.*
This remains a reduced commission compared to the standard 25%, used in most cities across the country.”
This translation has been kept as close as possible to the original wording, to match the image being shared with this article.
Why Is Uber Reducing Commission in Romania?
After receiving the message, Driver Matty asked the Romanian driver why he believed Uber was making this change.
The driver’s response was clear: He believes the reduction is driven by increased competition in the Romanian ride-hailing market.
According to the driver, Romania now has multiple competing apps and local ride-hailing companies, giving drivers more choice than in the past. As a result, Uber may be reducing its commission to remain more attractive and competitive for drivers, particularly in cities where alternatives are readily available.
UK Drivers Face a Very Different Reality
The Romanian update has sparked discussion among UK drivers, where Uber operates a dynamic pricing and commission model rather than a fixed rate.
In the UK, drivers regularly report commission levels rising as high as 40–49% on certain trips, depending on location, demand, and fare structure. Unlike Romania’s fixed commission model, UK drivers often do not know the effective commission until after the trip is completed.
This contrast highlights the growing gap between international Uber markets, with some regions benefiting from competitive pressure, while others face increasing costs with limited alternatives.
DM News Commentary
This update raises an uncomfortable question for UK drivers: Why can Uber lower commission elsewhere, but not here?
The Romanian driver’s explanation is telling. Where genuine competition exists, Uber appears more willing to adjust its pricing in favour of drivers. In markets where Uber dominates and alternatives are limited, commission pressure tends to move in the opposite direction.
For UK private hire drivers, this may reinforce the importance of supporting local operators, alternative platforms, and pre-booked work, rather than relying solely on one app. Competition doesn’t just benefit passengers — it can directly affect how much drivers take home, or does the UK need more Uber competing apps?
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