What Uber's accessibility tools do and who they're built for
Uber offers several built-in features designed to make the app work for people with disabilities, vision loss, hearing loss, mobility challenges, and neurodivergent riders and drivers. These are not separate programs you request — they're settings within the standard Uber app that you turn on yourself. Some work on both iOS and Android; others are platform-specific.
The features fall into three categories: navigation aids (making the app easier to read and use), communication tools (alternatives to voice or text), and driver-specific accommodations (for people who drive for Uber). None of them require you to disclose a disability or go through a separate registration process. You control whether they're on or off.
Key Takeaways
- Uber's accessibility features are built into the standard app and turned on through Settings — you don't need a separate account or approval.
- Screen reader support works on both iOS and Android; high-contrast mode and text size adjustment are available on Android.
- Riders can add accessibility notes to their profile (wheelchair access needed, service animal, deaf driver preferred) that show to the driver before pickup.
- Drivers can use audio-only mode to hear trip details and navigation without looking at the screen, available on both platforms.
- If a driver cancels after learning about your accessibility needs, you can report it; Uber's policy prohibits discrimination based on disability.
Screen readers and navigation for blind and low-vision users
Both iOS and Android versions of the Uber app work with screen readers — VoiceOver on iPhone and iPad, TalkBack on Android phones. The app's core functions (requesting a ride, tracking your driver, paying) are labeled so a screen reader can describe buttons, text fields, and trip status. You enable your device's screen reader through its accessibility settings, not through Uber itself.
Screen reader support is not perfect on every page. Some users report that certain screens (like the map view during an active ride) are harder to navigate than others. If you encounter a screen that doesn't read clearly, you can usually complete the action through an alternative route — for example, using text-based trip details instead of the map.
Android users also have access to high-contrast mode and adjustable text size within the Uber app itself. These settings live under Account > Settings > Accessibility. High-contrast mode darkens the background and brightens text; text size can be increased up to 200 percent of the default.
Adding accessibility notes to your rider profile
You can add a note to your profile that tells every driver what you need before they arrive. This note appears on the driver's screen once they accept your ride request. Common notes include "I use a wheelchair," "I have a service animal," "I'm deaf and prefer text communication," or "I need extra time to board."
To add or edit your accessibility note, open the Uber app, tap your profile picture, select "Accessibility," and type your note in the text field. The note stays on your account until you change it. It's visible to every driver you request, so use it for needs that apply to most or all of your rides.
Adding a note does not change how Uber matches you with drivers or affect your fare. Drivers are required to honor accessibility requests as part of Uber's non-discrimination policy. If a driver cancels after seeing your accessibility note, you can report the cancellation through the app (tap Help > Report a Safety Issue > Driver Behavior) and note that it may have been disability-related.
Audio-only mode for drivers
Drivers can turn on audio-only mode so they hear trip details, navigation, and passenger messages through the speaker instead of reading them on screen. This is useful for drivers with vision loss, dyslexia, or those who want to minimize screen time while driving. Audio-only mode is available on both iOS and Android.
To enable audio-only mode, open the driver app, tap your profile picture, go to Settings > Accessibility, and toggle Audio Mode on. Once it's on, Uber will read aloud the pickup address, passenger name, route, and turn-by-turn directions. Passenger messages appear as notifications that Uber reads to you; you can reply by voice or through preset text responses.
Audio-only mode does not disable the map or other visual elements — it layers audio on top of them. If you need to see the map for any reason, you can tap the screen to switch back to visual mode temporarily.
Hearing loss and communication options
Riders who are deaf or hard of hearing can request a text-based ride through the app. When you add a note like "I'm deaf, please text me," drivers see it before arrival. You can also use the in-app messaging feature to communicate with your driver about pickup location, delays, or other details without a phone call.
Uber does not offer real-time captioning or video relay services through the app itself. If you need to speak with Uber support and use relay services, you can call the relay number for your state and have the relay operator dial Uber's support line. Uber's support team is trained to work with relay services.
Mobility aids and vehicle access
If you use a wheelchair, walker, cane, or other mobility device, add that to your accessibility note so drivers know to expect it. Some drivers may have vehicles with ramps or extra space; your note helps them prepare. Uber does not may provide that every driver will have an accessible vehicle, but drivers are required to accommodate passengers with mobility aids.
If a driver refuses to let you board with a mobility aid or asks you to fold a wheelchair when you cannot do so safely, that is a violation of Uber's non-discrimination policy. Report it through the app (Help > Report a Safety Issue > Driver Behavior) and include details about what happened.
Service animals are always permitted on Uber rides. Add a note to your profile if you travel with a service animal so drivers are not surprised. Emotional support animals and pets have different rules — check your local Uber policy, as it varies by region.
What to do if accessibility features aren't working
If a screen reader isn't reading part of the app, the audio mode isn't working, or your accessibility note isn't showing to drivers, start by checking that you're on the latest version of the Uber app. Accessibility bugs are often fixed in updates.
If the problem persists, open the Uber app, tap Help, and select "Report a Technical Issue." Describe what's not working and which device and operating system you're using. Uber's support team can troubleshoot with you and escalate to the engineering team if needed.
You can also contact Uber's accessibility team directly through their website at uber.com/accessibility. They handle questions about how features work and can sometimes provide workarounds if a feature isn't functioning as expected.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to tell Uber I have a disability to use accessibility features?
No. Accessibility features are part of the standard app and don't require disclosure or approval. You turn them on through your device settings or the Uber app settings, and they work immediately. You only add an accessibility note to your profile if you want drivers to know about a specific need before they arrive.
Will using accessibility features affect my rating or how drivers treat me?
Accessibility features should not affect your rating. Drivers are trained that accessibility needs are not a reason to rate someone lower. If you believe you were rated unfairly because of a disability, you can report it to Uber support, though ratings are difficult to overturn.
Can I request a specific type of vehicle if I need wheelchair access?
Uber does not have a separate wheelchair-accessible vehicle option in most markets. Add a note to your profile and message the driver once they accept your request to confirm they have space. In some cities, Uber partners with local services to offer accessible rides; check your local Uber website to see if this is available in your area.
What happens if a driver cancels after seeing my accessibility note?
You can report the cancellation through the app under Help > Report a Safety Issue > Driver Behavior. Note that the cancellation may have been disability-related. Uber investigates patterns of cancellations and can deactivate drivers who discriminate. You will not be charged a cancellation fee if the driver cancelled.
Are captions or relay services available through the Uber app?
Uber does not offer built-in captions or video relay through the app. You can use your device's caption settings for any audio in the app, and you can use your state's relay service to contact Uber support by phone if you need to speak with someone directly.