Getting the Uber app on your phone takes about two minutes

The Uber app is available for free on both iPhone and Android devices. You download it the same way you download any other app — through the Apple App Store if you have an iPhone, or through Google Play if you have an Android phone. Once installed, you create an account, add a payment method, and you can request a ride.

You will need a smartphone with an active internet connection, either through WiFi or mobile data. The app works on older phones too, though Uber periodically updates its minimum requirements — if your phone is more than five or six years old, check whether your device meets the current requirements before you start.

Key Takeaways

  • Download the Uber app from the Apple App Store on iPhone or Google Play on Android — search for "Uber" and tap the official app by Uber Technologies, Inc.
  • Creating an account requires your phone number, email address, and a valid payment method such as a credit card, debit card, or linked bank account.
  • Your phone must have iOS 14.0 or later for iPhone, or Android 6.0 or later for Android devices to run the current version of the app.
  • The app uses your phone's location services to show nearby drivers and calculate your fare, so location access must be turned on during your ride.

Downloading on iPhone

Open the Apple App Store on your iPhone and tap the search icon at the bottom of the screen. Type "Uber" into the search box. The official Uber app will appear at the top of the results — it shows the Uber logo (a black square with white letters) and is published by Uber Technologies, Inc. Tap the cloud icon with a download arrow, or if you have already downloaded it before, tap "Open" to launch it.

The download usually takes less than a minute on a standard internet connection. Once it finishes, the app will open automatically, or you can tap "Open" to start it. If you have never used Uber before, you will be prompted to create an account.

Downloading on Android

Open Google Play on your Android phone and tap the search icon at the bottom. Type "Uber" into the search box. The official Uber app will appear — verify it is published by Uber Technologies, Inc. Tap "Install" and then confirm the permissions the app is asking for. Android will download and install the app automatically.

Once installation is complete, tap "Open" to launch the app for the first time. You will be guided through account creation on your first launch.

Creating your Uber account

When you open the app for the first time, you will see a screen asking you to sign up or log in. Tap "Sign up" and enter your phone number. Uber will send you a verification code via text message — enter that code into the app to confirm your number is real.

Next, you will enter your first and last name, email address, and create a password. Add a payment method — Uber accepts credit cards, debit cards, and linked bank accounts. You can also add a promotional code if you have one. Your account is now active and you can request a ride.

Turning on location services

Uber needs access to your phone's location to show you nearby drivers and calculate your fare. When you first open the app or request a ride, you will see a prompt asking permission to access your location. Tap "Allow" or "Allow While Using the App" — do not choose "Never" or the app will not work.

If you accidentally denied location access, you can turn it back on in your phone's settings. On iPhone, go to Settings > Privacy > Location Services, find Uber in the list, and change it to "While Using the App". On Android, go to Settings > Apps > Uber > Permissions > Location and toggle it on.

Checking your phone's requirements

Uber requires iOS 14.0 or later on iPhones and Android 6.0 or later on Android phones. To check your iPhone's version, go to Settings > General > About and look for "System Version". To check your Android version, go to Settings > About Phone and look for "Android Version".

If your phone does not meet these requirements, you cannot install the current version of the Uber app. Older versions may still be available through the app stores, but they may not have all current features or may not work reliably. If your phone is too old, you can still request a ride by calling Uber's phone line, though this option is not available in all cities.

Troubleshooting download problems

If the app will not download, first check that you have enough free storage space on your phone — the Uber app takes about 100 to 150 megabytes. Go to Settings on your phone and look for Storage or Device Storage to see how much space is available. If you are low on space, delete photos, videos, or other apps you no longer use.

If you have plenty of space but the download still fails, try restarting your phone and your internet connection. Turn off WiFi, turn it back on, and try downloading again. If the problem persists, uninstall any previous version of the app and download it fresh. On iPhone, press and hold the Uber app icon on your home screen and tap "Remove App", then confirm. On Android, go to Settings > Apps > Uber and tap "Uninstall", then download it again from Google Play.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Uber app cost money to download?

No, the app itself is free to download and install. You only pay when you request a ride. Uber charges a fare based on distance and time, plus any applicable surge pricing or service fees.

Can I use Uber without downloading the app?

In some cities, you can request a ride through Uber's website on a computer or mobile browser, but the app is the standard way to use the service. The app is faster and more reliable for requesting rides and tracking your driver in real time.

What if I do not have a smartphone?

You can call Uber's phone line to request a ride in most cities, though this option may not be available everywhere. Call the number listed on Uber's website for your city. You will still need to provide a payment method and phone number to complete your ride.

Is my personal information safe when I download the app?

Uber uses encryption to protect your payment information and location data. Your data is stored on Uber's servers and is subject to their privacy policy. Review Uber's privacy policy in the app settings if you want to understand how your information is used.

Can I download Uber on a tablet?

Yes, Uber is available on iPads and Android tablets through the same app stores. The app works the same way on a tablet as it does on a phone, though you will need a phone number to create an account and receive verification codes.