What You Need to Create an Uber Account

To use Uber, you need a smartphone with the Uber app installed, a valid email address or phone number, and a payment method on file. Uber accepts credit cards, debit cards, and in some cities, digital wallets like Apple Pay or Google Pay. You must be at least 18 years old, and if you plan to drive for Uber, you'll need to meet additional requirements including a valid driver's license, vehicle registration, and insurance.

The account creation process itself takes about five to ten minutes. You don't need to be a U.S. citizen, but you do need a valid form of identification and a phone number that can receive text messages or calls for verification. If you're creating an account to drive rather than to request rides, the full background check and vehicle inspection process takes longer — typically one to two weeks after you submit your documents.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a smartphone, email or phone number, and a payment method to create a rider account in about five to ten minutes.
  • Uber will send a verification code to your phone or email during signup; you must enter this code to complete your account.
  • If you want to drive for Uber, you'll need a valid driver's license, vehicle registration, proof of insurance, and you must pass a background check.
  • Your payment method must be current and valid; Uber will not process rides if your card is expired or declined.
  • You can add a promo code during signup or after, but codes expire and some are limited to new accounts only.

Step-by-Step Account Creation for Riders

Download the Uber app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. Open the app and tap "Sign Up." You'll be asked to enter your phone number or email address. Uber will send a verification code to whichever method you chose — this usually arrives within seconds, but can take up to two minutes if the network is slow.

Enter the verification code into the app. Next, you'll create a password and enter your full name as it appears on your ID. Add your date of birth and, if you want to use a promo code, enter it at this stage — though you can also add one later in your account settings under "Promotions."

Add a payment method by entering your credit or debit card number, expiration date, and CVV (the three-digit security code on the back). Uber will charge a small temporary hold to verify the card is real, then release it. Your account is now active and you can request a ride immediately.

What Happens During Driver Account Verification

If you're signing up to drive, the process is longer. After you create your account with your phone number and email, Uber will ask you to upload photos of your driver's license (front and back), vehicle registration, and proof of insurance. These documents must be current and match the name on your Uber account.

Uber then runs a background check through a third-party screening company. This check looks at your driving record, criminal history, and sex offender registry. The background check typically takes three to seven business days. During this time, your account will show as "pending" and you cannot accept rides.

Once the background check clears, Uber may ask you to take a vehicle inspection at a partner location, or you may be able to complete a self-inspection through the app depending on your city. After inspection passes, you'll receive an email confirming you're approved to drive. Some cities have additional requirements like commercial permits or vehicle emissions tests, which Uber will notify you about during signup.

Payment Methods and What Uber Accepts

Uber accepts Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover cards. You can also link a debit card, though Uber recommends credit cards because they offer better fraud protection. In some cities, you can pay with Apple Pay, Google Pay, or PayPal. You must add at least one payment method before you can request a ride.

Your payment method must be valid and current. If your card expires or is declined, Uber will notify you and you won't be able to request rides until you update it. You can add multiple payment methods to your account and choose which one to use for each ride. If you're driving for Uber, you'll also need to set up direct deposit for your earnings — Uber pays drivers weekly to a bank account you specify.

Fixing Common Problems During Signup

If you don't receive a verification code, check that you entered your phone number or email correctly. Wait two minutes before requesting a new code, as Uber's system sometimes delays sending. If you're still not receiving it, try signing up with a different phone number or email address. Some carriers block SMS messages from short codes; if this is happening, ask Uber to send the code via call instead of text.

If your payment card is declined, contact your bank to confirm they haven't blocked Uber as a merchant. Some banks flag ride-sharing apps as high-risk and decline the transaction automatically. You can also try a different card, or contact Uber support through the app by tapping your profile photo, then "Help," then "Account and Payment."

If you're signing up to drive and your background check is taking longer than a week, check your email for messages from Uber asking for additional documents. Sometimes Uber needs clarification on your driving record or address history. You can also contact Uber's driver support line through the app to ask for a status update.

Adding a Promo Code to Your Account

You can enter a promo code during signup or add one later. During signup, look for a field labeled "Promo Code" or "Referral Code" near the end of account creation. If you don't see it, you can add one after your account is active by opening the app, tapping your profile photo, selecting "Promotions," and entering the code in the "Promo Code" field.

Promo codes have expiration dates and are often limited to new accounts only. Some codes work only in specific cities or for specific ride types (UberX, UberEats, etc.). If a code doesn't work, the app will tell you why — usually because it's expired, you've already used it, or it doesn't apply to your account type or location. Uber doesn't refund promo codes if you forget to use them before they expire.

What Happens After Your Account Is Active

Once your account is created and verified, you can request a ride immediately. Open the app, enter your pickup location (it usually defaults to your current location), and your destination. The app will show available drivers and the estimated fare. Tap "Request" to send your ride request to nearby drivers. A driver will accept within seconds to a few minutes depending on demand.

For drivers, once you're approved, you can turn on the app and start accepting ride requests. Uber takes a percentage of each fare (the percentage varies by city and ride type), and you keep the rest. You'll see your earnings in the app in real time, and Uber deposits them to your bank account every week.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use Uber without a smartphone?

No. Uber operates only through its mobile app; there is no phone number to call to request a ride. You need a smartphone with the app installed, an active internet connection, and GPS enabled for the app to work.

Do I need a Social Security number to create an Uber account?

Not for a rider account. You need a phone number, email, and payment method. If you're signing up to drive, Uber will ask for your Social Security number during the background check process so they can verify your identity and driving record.

What if I don't have a credit card?

You can use a debit card instead. In some cities, you can also pay with digital wallets like Apple Pay or Google Pay. If none of these options are available in your area, you cannot use Uber — the app requires a payment method on file before you can request a ride.

How long does it take to get approved as an Uber driver?

The background check typically takes three to seven business days. Vehicle inspection, if required in your city, can add another few days. Total time from signup to first ride is usually one to two weeks, but can be longer if Uber needs additional documents or if there are issues with your background check.

Can I change my name or phone number after I create my account?

Yes. Open the app, tap your profile photo, select "Account," and edit your name or phone number. If you're a driver, your name must match your driver's license. If you change your phone number, Uber will send a verification code to the new number to confirm the change.