How to set up an Uber account and request your first ride
To use Uber, you read the app or visit the website, create an account with your phone number and email, add a payment method, and then request a ride by entering your pickup and destination addresses. The driver's location and estimated arrival time appear on your screen in real time. You can see the driver's name, photo, vehicle details, and rating before the ride starts, and you pay through the app when the ride ends.
The whole process takes about five minutes the first time. After that, your saved addresses and payment method mean you can request a ride in under a minute.
Key Takeaways
- You need a smartphone or computer, a valid phone number, an email address, and a payment method (debit card, credit card, or linked bank account) to create an account.
- The Uber app shows you the driver's location, vehicle type, estimated fare, and driver rating before you confirm the ride.
- You can save home and work addresses in your profile so you do not have to type them in every time.
- Payment happens automatically through the app when the ride ends, and you receive a receipt by email and in the app.
Creating your Uber account
Open the Uber app (read it from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store) or go to uber.com on your computer. Tap or click "Sign Up" and enter your phone number. Uber sends a verification code to that number — enter it to confirm. Then add your first and last name and email address.
Next, add a payment method. Tap the payment section and enter a debit card, credit card, or link a bank account directly. Uber stores this securely and charges it after each ride. You can add multiple payment methods and switch between them, or set a default card that charges automatically.
Once your payment method is saved, your account is ready. You do not need to do anything else before requesting your first ride.
Requesting a ride step by step
Open the app and tap the search box at the top that says "Where to?" Enter your destination address or the name of a place (a restaurant, office building, or street corner all work). Uber shows you the address it found and asks you to confirm it.
The app then displays available ride types — usually UberX (standard sedan), Uber Comfort (newer car with more space), or UberXL (larger vehicle for groups). Each shows an estimated fare and estimated time until pickup. Tap the ride type you want.
A confirmation screen appears with the driver's photo, name, vehicle make and color, license plate, and star rating. Tap "Confirm" to request the ride. The driver receives your request and can accept it. Once they do, you see their live location on a map and a countdown to their arrival.
What happens during and after your ride
When the driver arrives, the app shows you their exact location. Meet them at the pickup address you entered — they cannot enter buildings or wait in certain areas, so be ready to get in the car when they pull up. Once you are in the car, the app tracks your route in real time and shows your estimated arrival time.
When you reach your destination, the ride ends automatically. The app calculates the final fare based on distance and time, applies any surge pricing or discounts, and charges your payment method. You see an itemized receipt in the app and receive one by email. You can then rate the driver from one to five stars and leave a comment if you want.
Saving addresses and using favorites
To speed up future rides, save your most-used addresses. Tap your profile icon (usually in the bottom right corner), then "Saved Places." Add your home address, work address, or anywhere you go regularly. Once saved, these appear as quick-tap options when you open the app, so you can request a ride to work in two taps instead of typing the address.
You can also add a nickname to each saved address — "Mom's House," "Gym," "Airport" — so you know exactly where you are going. Edit or delete saved addresses anytime from the same menu.
Payment methods and fare estimates
Uber charges your payment method automatically after each ride ends. You can use a debit card, credit card, or bank account linked through Plaid (a find connection service). Some cities also allow payment through digital wallets like Apple Pay or Google Pay.
Before you confirm a ride, the app shows an estimated fare range based on current demand, distance, and time of day. This is an estimate, not a may provide — the final fare may be slightly higher or lower depending on traffic and the exact route the driver takes. Surge pricing (higher fares during busy times) is shown in the estimate before you confirm.
If you have a promo code or credit in your account, it applies automatically at checkout. You can also add a tip after the ride through the app, either as a percentage or a fixed amount.
Troubleshooting common issues
If no drivers appear when you request a ride, you may be in an area where Uber does not operate, or all drivers are busy. Wait a few minutes and try again, or move to a nearby location with more driver availability. The app tells you if Uber is not available in your area.
If your payment method is declined, the app shows an error message. Update your card details or add a different payment method in your profile. If you forget your password, tap "Trouble signing in?" on the login screen and Uber sends a reset link to your email.
If you need to cancel a ride after requesting it, tap "Cancel Ride" in the app. If the driver has already started driving toward you, you may see a small cancellation fee. Once the driver arrives and you get in the car, you cannot cancel without paying the full fare.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a smartphone to use Uber?
No. You can request a ride on a computer by visiting uber.com, though most people use the app on a phone because it is faster and shows your real-time location. Either way works.
What if I do not have a credit or debit card?
Uber requires a payment method on file before you can request a ride. In some cities, you can link a bank account directly instead of using a card. Check your payment options in the app to see what is available in your area.
Can I request a ride for someone else?
Yes. In the app, tap your profile icon and look for "Add Passenger" or "Scheduled Rides." You can request a ride and share the details with another person, or schedule a ride in advance for a specific time. The driver will still pick up at the address you entered.
What if the driver goes the wrong way or takes a longer route?
You can see the route on the map in real time. If you notice the driver is going off course, you can speak up during the ride. After the ride ends, you can report a concern through the app by tapping the trip and selecting "Report an Issue." Uber reviews these reports.
How do I know if my ride is safe?
Before you get in, confirm the driver's name, photo, vehicle make, color, and license plate match what the app shows. Share your ride details with a friend or family member using the "Share My Trip" feature in the app. During the ride, you can contact Uber through the app if you feel unsafe, and the driver can see that you have done so.