What You Need Before You Sign Up
Before you create an Uber account, gather a few pieces of information. You will need a valid email address or phone number, a way to pay (a debit or credit card, or a bank account linked through the app), and your legal name as it appears on your ID. If you are signing up to drive, you will also need your driver's license, vehicle registration, and proof of insurance — Uber checks these before you can accept rides.
Have your phone ready. Uber sends a verification code by text or email to confirm the account is yours. The whole process takes about five to ten minutes if you already have your documents in order.
Key Takeaways
- You can sign up through the Uber app or website using an email address or phone number, and Uber will send you a verification code to confirm.
- Riders need only a payment method on file; drivers must submit a driver's license, vehicle registration, and insurance before they can accept trips.
- Driver background checks and vehicle inspections take three to five business days, and you cannot drive until both are complete.
- Your account stays active as long as you use it at least once every six months; inactive accounts may be closed.
Steps to Create a Rider Account
Open the Uber app or go to uber.com. Tap or click "Sign Up" and choose whether you want to sign up as a rider or driver — this matters because the next steps differ. Enter your email address or phone number, then create a password. Uber will send a verification code to the email or phone number you provided; enter that code into the app to confirm.
Next, add a payment method. Tap "Payment" and enter a debit card, credit card, or bank account number. Uber holds a small temporary charge (usually $1 to $2) to verify the card works, then refunds it. You can add multiple payment methods and choose which one to use for each ride. Once your payment method is confirmed, your rider account is active and you can request a ride immediately.
You can also add a promo code at this stage if you have one. Tap "Promotions" and enter the code before you take your first ride to get the discount.
Steps to Create a Driver Account
Start the same way: open the app, tap "Sign Up," and select "Drive with Uber." Enter your email or phone number, create a password, and verify your account with the code Uber sends. Then Uber will ask you to provide information about yourself and your vehicle.
You will need to upload documents in this order: your driver's license (front and back), your vehicle registration, and proof of insurance. Take clear photos with your phone or upload files from your computer. Uber's system checks that your name, license number, and vehicle information match across all three documents. If anything does not match, the upload will be rejected and you will need to resubmit.
After you submit your documents, Uber runs a background check. This takes three to five business days. During this time, you cannot accept rides. Once the background check clears, Uber inspects your vehicle — either through a partner inspection facility or by having you take photos of the exterior, interior, and odometer. You must pass inspection before your first ride. The entire process from account creation to your first active shift usually takes one to two weeks.
What Happens After You Sign Up
As a rider, you can request a ride as soon as your account is active. Open the app, enter your pickup location and destination, and tap "Request." Uber shows you the estimated fare and the driver's name and vehicle. Once a driver accepts, you see their location on the map and can track their arrival in real time. The driver's rating (based on past rider reviews) appears on the screen so you know who is picking you up.
As a driver, once your account is active and your vehicle passes inspection, you can go online and start accepting rides. Tap the "Go Online" button in the app to become available. Ride requests appear on your screen; you have a few seconds to accept or decline each one. Your earnings appear in the app in real time, and Uber deposits them into your linked bank account weekly (usually on Tuesday or Wednesday, depending on your location).
Documents Checklist for Drivers
| Document | What Uber Needs | Timing |
|---|---|---|
| Driver's License | Front and back photos; must be valid and not expired | Submit during signup |
| Vehicle Registration | Current registration in your name; front and back photos | Submit during signup |
| Proof of Insurance | Current policy document showing your name and vehicle; must cover rideshare | Submit during signup |
| Background Check | Uber runs this automatically; you provide nothing | 3–5 business days after submission |
| Vehicle Inspection | Photos or in-person inspection of exterior, interior, and odometer | After background check clears |
Keeping Your Account Active
Your Uber account remains active as long as you use it. Riders who do not request a ride for six months may find their account closed. Drivers who do not accept any rides for six months may also have their account deactivated. If your account is closed, you can reopen it by signing in with your original email or phone number, though Uber may ask you to verify your identity again.
Keep your payment method current. If your card expires or your bank account information changes, update it in the app under "Payment" to avoid failed transactions. Drivers should also keep their insurance and registration current; Uber periodically re-verifies these documents, and driving with expired or lapsed coverage can result in account suspension.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I sign up with a phone number instead of an email?
Yes. Uber accepts either a phone number or email address. If you use a phone number, Uber sends the verification code by text. You can add an email address to your account later under "Account Settings" if you want a backup way to sign in.
What if my driver's license or registration does not match my current address?
Uber compares the name and license number across your documents, not the address. As long as your name is the same on all three documents (license, registration, and insurance), the address mismatch will not block you. If the name differs, you will need to resubmit with documents that match.
How long does it take to get approved as a driver?
The background check takes three to five business days. Vehicle inspection can happen the same day or take a few more days depending on whether you use a partner facility or submit photos. Most drivers are fully approved and can drive within one to two weeks of signup.
Can I use Uber if I do not have a smartphone?
Riders can use Uber on a computer by going to uber.com, but the mobile app is faster and shows real-time driver location. Drivers must use the app because they need to see incoming ride requests and navigate to passengers. A smartphone is required to drive.
What if I forget my password?
Tap "Trouble signing in?" on the login screen. Uber sends a password reset link to your email or a code to your phone. Follow the link or enter the code to create a new password. You can then sign in with your new password.