When a startup like Uber or Lyft goes public, what do the drivers get?

Some states and localities are starting to tax ride-hailing services such as Uber and Lyft, a sign governments seek to overhaul their tax structures in response to a rapidly changing economy. (Mark Boster/Los Angeles Times/TNS)

SAN FRANCISCO: Edward Escobar has been driving for Uber and Lyft for nearly four years. 

That's eons in Silicon Valley time. If he were an employee at either ride-hailing company, he'd be considered a stalwart, probably with stock options fully vested. And if either company went public at their current valuations, he would have a good shot at striking it rich.