AFAIK, Uber is not a transportation company, and has never claimed to be. It just runs an app that matches up independent drivers and independent riders. It is not subject to T&LC licensing rules (and their equivalents overseas) because it does not officially employ, supervise, or insure drivers. Instead, the drivers are independent contractors with their own equipment and insurance.
This way, Uber tries to stay clear of things like taxi licenses.
from the Terms of Service on the Uber website:
“YOU ACKNOWLEDGE THAT UBER DOES NOT PROVIDE TRANSPORTATION OR LOGISTICS SERVICES OR FUNCTION AS A TRANSPORTATION CARRIER."