What You Need Before You Start

To use Uber Eats, you need a smartphone with the Uber Eats app installed, a valid payment method (debit card, credit card, or linked bank account), and a delivery address in an area where Uber Eats operates. You'll also need either a phone number or email address to create your account. The app works on both iPhone and Android devices.

Before you begin, check that Uber Eats delivers to your address. You can do this by opening the app and entering your delivery location — if restaurants appear, service is available in your area. If nothing shows up, Uber Eats does not yet operate where you live.

Key Takeaways

  • Download the Uber Eats app, open it, and tap "Account" to create a new profile using your phone number or email address.
  • Add at least one payment method (credit card, debit card, or bank account) before you can place an order.
  • Enter your delivery address, browse restaurants, add items to your cart, and review the total cost including delivery fees and taxes before confirming payment.
  • Orders typically arrive within 30 to 60 minutes, though timing varies by restaurant and how busy the service is in your area.

Download and Install the App

Go to the Apple App Store (iPhone) or Google Play Store (Android) and search for "Uber Eats." Tap the official Uber Eats app — it has a white fork and knife on a black background — and select "Get" or "Install." Wait for the download to finish, then tap "Open" to launch the app for the first time.

The app is free to download. You do not pay anything until you place an order.

Create Your Account

When you open the app, tap "Account" at the bottom right of the screen. Select "Sign Up" and choose whether to sign up with your phone number or email address. If you use your phone number, Uber will send you a code by text message — enter that code to verify. If you use email, you'll receive a verification link in your inbox; click it to confirm your address.

Next, enter your full name and create a password. Make sure your password is something you can remember but that others cannot easily guess. Tap "Continue" when you're done. Your account is now active.

Add a Payment Method

Tap "Account" again and select "Payment Methods." Choose "Add Payment Method" and enter your card details (card number, expiration date, and CVV security code) or link your bank account directly. Uber Eats accepts Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover cards, as well as debit cards and some digital wallets like Apple Pay and Google Pay.

If you add a bank account, Uber will ask for your routing number and account number. You can find these on a check or by logging into your bank's website. After you enter this information, Uber may make two small test deposits to your account — check your bank statement for the amounts and enter them in the app to confirm your account is linked.

Enter Your Delivery Address

On the home screen, tap the address bar at the top where it says "Deliver to" or shows a default address. Type in the street address where you want your food delivered. Include your apartment or unit number if you have one. Tap the correct address when it appears in the dropdown list.

You can save multiple addresses (home, work, a friend's place) by tapping "Saved Places" in your Account settings. This makes future orders faster because you won't have to type the address each time.

Browse Restaurants and Place an Order

Once your delivery address is set, the home screen shows restaurants available in your area. Scroll through the list or use the search bar to find a specific restaurant or type of food. Tap a restaurant to see its menu, hours, and delivery fee. Some restaurants offer a discount on your first order — look for a banner at the top of the restaurant page.

Tap items to add them to your cart. You can customize most items (choose toppings, sizes, or sides) by tapping the item and selecting your preferences. Review your cart by tapping the cart icon, check that everything is correct, and tap "Checkout." On the payment screen, confirm your delivery address and payment method are correct, then tap "Place Order." You'll receive a confirmation number and can track your order in real time.

Track Your Order and Receive Your Food

After you place an order, the app shows you the restaurant's preparation time and the estimated delivery time. Once the driver picks up your food, you'll see their name, photo, and vehicle on a map so you can watch them approach. Most drivers leave food at your door or hand it to you directly — the app will tell you which method the driver is using.

If you're not home when the driver arrives, tap "Contact Driver" in the app to call or text them. After delivery, you can rate the driver and restaurant and leave comments about your experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to create an account to order?

Yes. Uber Eats requires an account to place an order. You can create one using your phone number or email address, and it takes about five minutes. If you already have an Uber account (for rides), you can use the same login for Uber Eats.

What if I don't have a credit card?

You can link a debit card or bank account instead. Uber Eats also accepts some digital wallets like Apple Pay and Google Pay if your phone supports them. A few locations may offer cash payment, but this is rare — check with your local restaurants or contact Uber Eats support to ask.

Why is my delivery fee so high?

Delivery fees depend on distance, how busy the service is, and current demand for drivers. Fees are shown before you confirm payment, so you can see the total cost (food, delivery fee, taxes, and any service charges) before you decide to order. Some restaurants offer free or reduced delivery if you spend above a certain amount.

Can I change my order after I place it?

If the restaurant hasn't started preparing your food yet, you can cancel your order in the app and place a new one. Once the restaurant begins cooking, most orders cannot be changed. Check the app status — if it still says "Confirming order," you may have time to cancel.

What happens if my food doesn't arrive?

If your order is very late or doesn't arrive, tap "Help" in the app and select "Order Issues." Describe what happened, and Uber Eats can refund you, send a replacement, or credit your account. Keep the app open and track your order so you know when the driver is nearby.