What you need to set up an Uber account

To use Uber, you need a smartphone with either iOS or Android, a valid payment method (debit card, credit card, or linked bank account), and a phone number where Uber can reach you. You'll also need to be at least 18 years old. The app itself is free to download from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.

Uber will ask for your full name, email address, and phone number during setup. You don't need to provide a Social Security number or government ID to create the account, though some cities require ID verification before you can request certain ride types. Payment information is stored securely in the app and is not charged until after your ride ends.

Key Takeaways

  • Download the Uber app, enter your name and phone number, and add a payment method to create your account in about five minutes.
  • Your first ride may show a discount code field at checkout — these are often sent by email or appear in the app automatically.
  • The app shows the driver's name, car details, and real-time location before you confirm the ride, and you can cancel free of charge up until the driver arrives.
  • Uber charges a base fare, distance charge, and time charge; surge pricing increases these amounts during high-demand periods and is shown before you confirm.
  • You can request a ride for someone else by adding them as a contact, or schedule a ride up to 30 days in advance through the app.

Step-by-step account creation

Open the Uber app and tap "Sign Up." Enter your full name, email address, and phone number. Uber will send a verification code to your phone — enter it in the app to confirm your number. Then add a payment method by tapping the payment icon, selecting "Add Payment Method," and entering your card or bank account details.

Next, add your home and work addresses (optional but useful for faster requests later). You can also add emergency contacts and set up a PIN for added security. Once your payment method is confirmed, your account is active and you can request a ride immediately.

If you have a promo code, tap the menu icon (three horizontal lines), select "Promotions," and enter the code before you request your first ride. The discount will appear at checkout.

How to request a ride

Open the app and confirm your pickup location — the app uses your phone's location, but you can drag the map pin to a different spot if needed. Tap the destination field and enter where you want to go, or select a saved location like home or work. The app will show available ride types: Uber X (standard sedan), Uber Comfort (newer car with extra legroom), or Uber XL (larger vehicle for groups).

Select your ride type and the app will show the estimated fare, pickup time, and driver details. Review the price — this is where surge pricing appears if demand is high. Tap "Confirm" and the app will match you with a nearby driver. You'll see the driver's name, photo, car make and color, and license plate, plus their real-time location on the map.

You can cancel free of charge before the driver arrives. Once the driver reaches your pickup location, get in and confirm the trip has started. The ride ends when you reach your destination; payment is processed automatically and a receipt appears in the app.

Understanding Uber's pricing structure

Uber charges three components: a base fare (the starting cost), a per-mile charge, and a per-minute charge. These rates vary by city and ride type. The app always shows the estimated total before you confirm, though the final charge may be slightly higher or lower depending on the exact route the driver takes.

Surge pricing activates during high-demand periods — evenings, weekends, bad weather, or special events. When surge is active, the app displays a multiplier (for example, 1.5x) and shows the estimated fare with that multiplier included. You can choose to wait for demand to drop or confirm at the higher price. Surge pricing is transparent and shown before you commit to the ride.

Tolls, airport fees, and service fees are added to your total. Tips are optional and can be added in the app after the ride ends or before if you prefer.

What to do if verification is required

Some cities require Uber to verify your identity before you can request certain ride types or use the service. If you see a verification prompt, tap it and follow the instructions — you'll usually need to take a photo of your government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID) using your phone's camera. Uber's system checks the photo against your account information.

Verification typically takes a few minutes to a few hours. You'll receive an email confirming whether you've been verified. If verification is rejected, the email will explain why — usually because the photo was unclear or the name on the ID didn't match your account. You can resubmit a new photo.

Requesting a ride for someone else

To request a ride for another person, open the app and tap the profile icon. Select "Add Passenger" and choose a contact from your phone or enter their phone number. Request the ride as usual — the app will send them a notification with the driver details and pickup time. They'll receive the ride link and can track the driver in real time.

The payment still comes from your account. The other person doesn't need an Uber account to receive the ride, though they will need to know where to meet the driver. Make sure to tell them the driver's name and car details so they can identify the correct vehicle.

Scheduling rides in advance

Instead of requesting a ride immediately, you can schedule one for a future date and time. Tap the clock icon at the top of the app, enter your destination, and select the date and time you want to be picked up. The app will show the estimated fare and confirm your scheduled ride.

Uber will send you a reminder notification 15 minutes before your scheduled pickup time. The driver will be matched to your ride closer to the scheduled time, not when you book it. If you need to cancel, you can do so in the app; cancellation policies vary by city but scheduled rides often have a longer free cancellation window than immediate requests.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use Uber without a smartphone?

No, Uber requires the mobile app to request rides. The app is available for iPhone and Android only. There is no web version or phone number to call for ride requests.

What payment methods does Uber accept?

Uber accepts major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express), debit cards, and linked bank accounts. Some cities also accept digital wallets like Apple Pay or Google Pay. You must add at least one payment method before requesting a ride.

Can I change my payment method after I've requested a ride?

No, the payment method is locked in once you confirm the ride. You can change your default payment method in the app settings before your next request, but not during an active ride.

What happens if I don't have enough money on my card when the ride ends?

Uber will attempt to charge your payment method after the ride ends. If the charge fails, Uber will try again over the next few days. If payment continues to fail, your account may be suspended until the balance is paid.

How do I contact my driver before they arrive?

Tap the driver's name or photo in the app to call or text them directly. You can share your exact location, ask them to wait, or let them know you're running late. The driver can also contact you through the app.