Open the Uber app and request a ride

To call an Uber, open the Uber app on your phone, confirm your pickup location (the app usually detects it automatically), and tap the ride type you want — UberX is the standard option, though UberXL, Uber Comfort, and other categories appear depending on your city. Enter your destination, review the estimated fare and pickup time, then tap "Request." The app will show you the driver's name, photo, vehicle details, and real-time location as they approach.

If you do not have the app installed, download it from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store first. You will need to create an account with your phone number, email, and payment method before you can request your first ride.

Key Takeaways

  • The Uber app shows your pickup location, destination, estimated fare, and driver details before you confirm the ride.
  • Your driver's location updates in real time on the map, and you can contact them through the app if you need to clarify your pickup spot.
  • Payment is automatic through your saved payment method, and you receive a receipt in the app after the ride ends.
  • If you cannot use the app, you can request a ride by phone in some cities, though the app is the standard method.

What happens after you request

Once you tap "Request," the app sends your ride details to nearby drivers. A driver will accept the ride within seconds to a few minutes depending on demand. You will see their name, photo, vehicle make and color, and license plate number. The map shows their real-time location as they drive to pick you up — you can watch them approach and know roughly when they will arrive.

If you need to tell your driver something specific — like you are waiting on the corner rather than at the front door, or you are running a few minutes late — tap the message icon in the app to send a text. Most drivers check messages before they arrive.

Pickup and payment

When your driver arrives, confirm the vehicle matches what the app shows, then get in. The driver will confirm your destination (the app already has it, but they may ask to be sure), and the ride begins. The app tracks your route and fare in real time on your phone screen.

Payment happens automatically through the payment method you saved in your account — usually a debit card, credit card, or linked bank account. You do not hand money to the driver. After you arrive and exit the vehicle, the app calculates your final fare, charges your payment method, and shows you a receipt. You can add a tip in the app immediately after the ride or up to 30 days later.

Rating your driver and reporting problems

After each ride, the app prompts you to rate your driver on a scale of one to five stars and leave comments if you want. This rating system helps Uber maintain driver quality — drivers with consistently low ratings may lose access to the platform. You can also report specific problems like a dirty vehicle, unsafe driving, or a missed destination through the app's report feature.

If something goes wrong during the ride — you were charged incorrectly, the driver took an unusually long route, or you left something behind — contact Uber support through the app. Tap the menu, select "Help," find your ride, and choose the issue that matches your problem. Uber can adjust fares for legitimate concerns and helps coordinate returning lost items.

Calling Uber by phone instead of the app

Most cities require you to use the app to request a ride. However, some areas still allow phone requests through Uber's customer service line. If you need to call instead of using the app, search online for "Uber phone number [your city]" — the number varies by location. When you call, have your pickup address and destination ready, and provide a phone number where the driver can reach you.

Phone requests typically take longer than app requests because the dispatcher has to manually enter your information and find a driver. You will not see the driver's details or real-time location the way you do in the app, so you will need to stay alert for their arrival.

Surge pricing and fare estimates

Uber's fares change based on demand — when many people are requesting rides at the same time, prices go up. The app shows you the estimated fare before you confirm the ride, so you know the cost upfront. During surge pricing, the estimate will be higher than usual, and the app will tell you that prices are elevated. You can choose to request anyway or wait for demand to drop.

The final fare may differ slightly from the estimate if your actual route differs from the app's prediction, traffic changes, or you take a detour. Tolls are added to your fare if your route includes them. The app shows the breakdown of your final charge — base fare, distance, time, tolls, and any surge multiplier — so you can see exactly what you paid for.

Safety tips for riders

Before getting in, confirm the vehicle matches the app — check the license plate, make, color, and driver photo. If something does not match, do not get in and cancel the ride. Share your trip details with a friend or family member using the app's "Share Trip" feature, which lets them track your location in real time until you arrive.

During the ride, sit in the back seat, keep your belongings with you, and stay aware of your surroundings. If you feel unsafe at any point, you can end the ride early by asking the driver to pull over and let you out. After you exit, you can report the driver through the app if their behavior was concerning.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if my driver cancels after I request?

If a driver accepts your ride and then cancels, you will see a cancellation notice in the app. You can immediately request another ride. Uber does not charge you if the driver cancels, but you may see a cancellation fee if you cancel after a driver has already accepted and is on the way to pick you up.

Can I change my destination after the ride starts?

Yes. Tap the destination field in the app during the ride to add stops or change where you are going. The fare will adjust based on the new route. Let your driver know verbally as well so they understand the change.

What if I leave something in the Uber?

Go to your ride receipt in the app and tap "I lost an item." Describe what you left behind and select the category. Uber will contact the driver and ask them to check the vehicle. If found, the driver can return it or arrange a time for you to pick it up. You may be charged a fee for the return delivery.

Do I need to tip my driver?

Tipping is not required, but it is customary. You can add a tip through the app after the ride ends or up to 30 days later. Most riders tip between 15 and 20 percent of the fare, though any amount is appreciated.

What payment methods does Uber accept?

Uber accepts credit cards, debit cards, and linked bank accounts. Some cities also accept digital wallets like Apple Pay or Google Pay. You must have a valid payment method on file before you can request a ride.