Its a phrase Uber uses for independent contractors. Under most states emplotment law a contract is not 'supposed to' be a substitute for employment either temporary or probation time. However most states also require that the President or Chief Operating officer (COO) sign all contracts for one year or more. You are dealing in esoteric and very expensive lawyer regulated public issue and local domain law. Its impossible to afford representation but yet a law professor or student could likely tell you what you usually need.

No. It means you drive by yourself and they take twenty percent. Also you might not get paid because they withhold your money whenever they want. Don't count on the money, Uber employs thieves