Getting the Uber app on your phone and ready to use

Download the Uber app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store, depending on whether you have an iPhone or Android phone. Open the app and enter your phone number or email address. Uber will send you a verification code — check your text messages or email and type that code into the app to confirm your identity.

Next, add a payment method. Tap the menu icon (three horizontal lines) in the bottom right, then select "Payment." You can add a debit card, credit card, or link a PayPal account. Uber will charge the card you select after each ride. Some cities also allow you to pay with cash, though you'll still need a card on file.

Add your name and, if you want, a profile photo. This helps drivers recognize you. You can also add emergency contacts in the app's safety section — these people can see your ride location in real time if you share it with them.

Key Takeaways

  • Download the app, verify your phone number or email, and add a payment method before you can request a ride.
  • Enter your pickup location and destination, then tap "Request" to see available drivers and the upfront price.
  • Your driver's name, photo, and car details appear on your screen once they accept; you can track their location in real time.
  • After the ride ends, you rate your driver and the trip, and the fare is charged to your saved payment method automatically.
  • Sharing your trip details with a trusted contact and using the app's safety features gives you a record of your ride and driver information.

Requesting your first ride

Open the app and tap the search box at the top that says "Where to?" Enter your destination — the full address or a landmark name works. Uber will show you the pickup location it detected (usually your current location), and you can drag the map or type a different address if needed.

Tap "Confirm Pickup Location" once it's correct. The app will show you available ride types — UberX is the standard option and usually the cheapest. Tap the ride type you want, and Uber displays the upfront price and estimated arrival time of the nearest driver. Tap "Request" to send your request to drivers in your area.

Once a driver accepts, their name, photo, car make and color, and license plate appear on your screen. You'll see their location on the map and a countdown to their arrival. Most drivers arrive within 5 to 15 minutes, depending on how busy the area is.

What happens during and after your ride

When your driver arrives, look for the car details shown in the app and confirm it matches before getting in. During the ride, you can see your route on the map and track your progress toward your destination. The driver follows the route they choose — it may not be the exact path you expected, but Uber's system generally routes drivers efficiently.

When you reach your destination, the ride ends automatically. The app shows your final fare, a breakdown of the cost, and any tolls or surcharges. Your payment method is charged right away. You then rate your driver on a scale of one to five stars and can leave a written comment if you want.

Keep your rating high by being ready when the driver arrives, treating the car respectfully, and following the driver's instructions. Drivers also rate passengers, and a low rating can make it harder to get drivers to accept your requests in the future.

Understanding Uber's pricing and ride options

UberX is the most common and affordable option. UberXL seats up to six passengers and costs more. Uber Comfort offers newer cars and more space for a higher price. Some cities have Uber Green, which uses electric or hybrid vehicles. The app shows the price for each type before you request, so you know the cost upfront.

Prices change based on demand — during busy times like rush hour or late night, prices go up. The app warns you when surge pricing is active and shows the multiplier (for example, 1.5x means the price is 50 percent higher than normal). You can wait for prices to drop, request anyway, or try a different time or location.

Tolls, airport fees, and service fees are added to your fare and shown in the breakdown after your ride. Some cities charge a small booking fee. Tips are not included in the upfront price — you can add a tip in the app after the ride or before you rate the driver.

Safety features and what to do if something goes wrong

Before you ride, share your trip details with a trusted contact by tapping the share icon during your ride. That person can see your location, driver name, and car details in real time. You can also use the app's emergency button (usually a red icon) to contact emergency services directly from the app if you need help.

If your driver takes a very long or unusual route, you can contact them through the app's messaging feature to ask why. If you leave something in the car, tap "I lost an item" in the app within a few hours and message the driver. Many drivers return lost items, though there's no may provide.

If you have a problem with your ride — the driver was rude, the car was dirty, you were charged incorrectly — tap the menu, select "Help," and choose "Report a Safety Issue" or "Get Help with a Ride." Describe what happened, and Uber reviews your report. You may receive a refund or credit if the issue is confirmed.

Saving money and managing your account

Uber offers a subscription called Uber Pass in some cities, which gives you discounts on rides and food orders for a monthly fee. Check the app's promotions section to see if it's worth it based on how often you ride. You can also enter promo codes in the "Wallet" section to add credits to your account.

Set a default home and work address in your profile so you don't have to type them every time. The app will suggest these locations when you open it. You can also save favorite locations by tapping the heart icon after you complete a ride to that place.

Review your ride history in the app anytime by tapping the menu and selecting "Your Trips." This shows every ride you've taken, the fare, the driver, and your rating. You can download receipts for business or tax purposes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I don't have a smartphone?

Uber is designed for smartphones and doesn't have a reliable phone-call or text-based system for requesting rides. You need a smartphone with the app installed to use Uber. If you don't have one, traditional taxi services or local car services may be your option.

Can I request a ride for someone else?

Yes. In the app, tap the menu, select "Add a Rider," and enter their phone number. They'll receive a notification that you've requested a ride for them. The ride will be charged to your payment method, but the driver will see their name and phone number.

What if my driver cancels after I request?

If a driver cancels, you're not charged. The app returns you to the ride request screen so you can request again. If you've been waiting more than a few minutes and no driver has accepted, you can cancel your request without a fee and try again later.

Do I need to tip my driver?

Tips are not required and are not included in the upfront price. You can add a tip in the app after your ride ends or before you rate the driver. Many people tip 15 to 20 percent for good service, but the amount is entirely up to you.

What happens if I leave something in the Uber?

Tap "I lost an item" in the app within a few hours of your ride and describe what you left behind. Message the driver through the app. If they have it, they may return it to you or to an Uber office. There's no may provide, so it's best to check the car before you exit.