Uber does not accept cash in the app, but you can request a cash-paying driver through Uber Cash or use Uber's cash payment feature in select cities

Uber's standard payment method is a debit or credit card linked to your account. However, Uber does offer a cash payment option in certain markets. The availability depends on your city — some areas have the feature built into the app, while others do not support it at all. If your city does not offer in-app cash payment, you have limited alternatives through Uber itself, though you can use third-party services or request a ride through a different platform.

The cash payment feature, when available, works like any other payment method in the Uber app. You select it before requesting your ride, and the driver brings change if needed. Not all drivers accept cash even in cities where the feature exists, so you should confirm with your driver after matching.

Key Takeaways

  • Cash payment through Uber is only available in select cities and is not a universal feature across all markets.
  • If your city supports cash payment, you can enable it in the app under payment methods before requesting a ride.
  • Drivers are not required to accept cash even when the feature is available, so you should confirm with your matched driver.
  • If cash payment is not available in your area, you will need a debit or credit card, or you can use a different ride-sharing service that accepts cash.

How to check if cash payment is available in your city

Open the Uber app and go to the Account section, then select Payment Methods. Scroll through the list of available payment options. If you see a cash payment option listed, your city supports it. If you do not see it, cash payment is not currently available where you are.

You can also contact Uber support through the app to ask directly whether cash rides are available in your area. Support can tell you if the feature is planned for your city in the future or if it has been discontinued.

Setting up cash payment in the app

Once you confirm cash payment is available, tap the payment method section and select the cash option. The app will ask you to confirm, and you may see a note about driver availability — not every driver in your area will accept cash, even if the feature is enabled.

After you set cash as your payment method, request your ride as usual. When a driver accepts, you can message them to confirm they accept cash payment. Some drivers turn off cash rides to avoid carrying change or handling physical money, so this step prevents a mismatch.

What to expect when paying with cash

When you arrive at your destination, tell the driver the amount you are paying or ask what the fare is. The driver will calculate the total from the app and let you know. You pay the driver directly — the money does not go through the app. If you are paying with cash, you should have the right amount or small bills so the driver can make change.

Tipping with cash is also an option, though you can add a tip in the app after the ride ends if you prefer. Cash tips go directly to the driver and are not subject to any app processing.

Why some cities do not have cash payment

Uber has gradually reduced cash payment availability over time. The company prefers digital payments because they reduce driver safety concerns, eliminate disputes over change, and simplify accounting. In cities where cash was once available, Uber has phased it out in favor of card-only transactions.

The feature remains in select international markets and a few U.S. cities, but it is not a priority for Uber's development. If you live in a city without cash payment, Uber is unlikely to add it in the near future.

Alternatives if cash payment is not available

If your city does not support cash payment through Uber, you have a few options. You can add a prepaid debit card to your Uber account — these are available at most grocery stores and pharmacies and do not require a bank account. You load cash onto the card at the store, then use it like a regular debit card in the app.

You can also use a different ride-sharing service. Lyft does not accept cash through its app either, but some local taxi services or ride-sharing apps in your area may. Check what services operate in your city and whether they accept cash payment.

What happens if the driver refuses cash

If you match with a driver who does not accept cash, you will need to cancel the ride and request another one. Canceling a ride you requested costs nothing if you cancel before the driver arrives, but canceling after they have started driving may result in a cancellation fee. Always confirm with the driver that they accept cash before they start heading to you.

If you are already in the car and the driver says they do not accept cash, you can offer to stop at an ATM or ask if they accept a mobile payment app like Venmo or PayPal. Some drivers will accept these as an alternative to cash or card.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to tip if I pay with cash?

No, tipping is not required. However, drivers depend on tips as part of their income. If you pay with cash, you can tip the driver directly, or you can add a tip in the app after the ride ends.

Can I request a cash ride if I do not have a payment method on file?

You still need to create an Uber account with a phone number and email. However, if cash payment is available in your city, you can select it as your payment method without adding a card.

What if I do not have exact change?

Tell the driver the amount you are paying and ask them to make change. Drivers are expected to carry change for cash fares. If a driver refuses to make change, you can report it to Uber support.

Is cash payment safer than card payment?

Both methods are safe. Cash payment means the driver handles physical money, which some drivers prefer to avoid. Card payment is processed through the app and does not require handling cash, but it requires you to link a card to your account.

Can I use cash to pay for Uber Eats?

Uber Eats does not accept cash payment through the app. You must use a card, digital wallet, or other payment method linked to your account. Some restaurants may accept cash for delivery, but this is not an Uber Eats feature.