The basic steps to request a ride

To request an Uber ride, open the Uber app on your phone, enter your pickup location (which usually fills in automatically based on where you are), and tap the destination address into the search box. The app will show you available ride types, estimated arrival time of the driver, and the fare estimate. Tap the ride type you want, then tap "Request" at the bottom of the screen. A driver will accept your request within seconds to a few minutes, and you'll see their name, photo, car details, and real-time location on the map.

Once a driver accepts, the app shows you their exact location and how many minutes until they arrive. You can message the driver through the app or call them directly if you need to give directions or let them know where to pick you up. When the driver arrives, look for the car make and license plate shown in the app, confirm it matches, and get in. The ride begins as soon as you close the car door, and the app tracks your route in real time.

Key Takeaways

  • You need the Uber app installed on a smartphone, a valid payment method on file, and a pickup location to request a ride.
  • The app shows you the driver's name, photo, car details, and arrival time before you confirm the request.
  • You can message or call your driver through the app if you need to adjust pickup instructions or clarify your location.
  • Payment happens automatically through the payment method you saved in the app, and you receive a receipt by email after the ride ends.
  • Rating your driver and reading driver ratings helps both you and other riders make informed decisions about which drivers to ride with.

Setting up your account and payment method

Before you can request a ride, you need to create an Uber account. Open the app, tap "Sign Up," and enter your phone number or email address. Uber will send you a verification code by text or email — enter that code to confirm your identity. Then add your name, and optionally a profile photo.

Next, add a payment method. Tap the menu icon (three horizontal lines) in the bottom right, then "Wallet" or "Payment Methods." You can add a credit card, debit card, or link a PayPal account. Uber will charge the payment method you set as your default after each ride. Some cities also allow you to add a bank account or pay with a local digital wallet. You can save multiple payment methods and switch between them before you request each ride.

Choosing a ride type and understanding the fare

When you enter your destination, the Uber app shows you several ride options. UberX is the standard option — a regular sedan or small car driven by an Uber driver. Uber Comfort offers newer cars with more legroom and drivers who have higher ratings. UberXL is a larger vehicle that fits up to six passengers and costs more per ride. Uber Black is a premium service with professional drivers and luxury vehicles, available in some cities. Some cities also offer Uber Eats delivery or Uber Green, which uses electric or hybrid vehicles.

The fare estimate shown before you request includes the base fare, per-minute charge, and per-mile charge — all of which vary by city and time of day. During busy times (called "surge pricing"), fares increase, and the app will show you the multiplier before you confirm. You pay the final fare shown at the end of the ride, plus any tolls or fees your city charges. Tipping is optional and happens after the ride through the app; you can tip in cash if you prefer, though the app will still prompt you to add a tip digitally.

What to do when your driver arrives

When your driver is about two minutes away, the app will notify you. Look outside for the car make, model, color, and license plate shown in the app. Confirm the details match before you approach the car. If you're unsure, you can call or message the driver through the app to confirm they're picking you up at the right location.

Get in the back seat (drivers prefer passengers to sit in back). Tell the driver your destination if they ask, though they can usually see it on their own app. Buckle your seatbelt. During the ride, the app shows your route on the map and updates your estimated arrival time. If you need to change your destination, tap the destination field in the app and enter a new address — the driver will see the update and the fare will adjust.

Ending the ride and rating your driver

When you reach your destination, the driver will stop the car. You can exit whenever you're ready. The ride ends automatically a few seconds after you close the car door, and the app will show your final fare, breakdown of charges, and receipt. The payment processes when ready through your saved payment method.

After the ride, you'll see a screen asking you to rate your driver on a scale of one to five stars and optionally leave written feedback. You can also report a safety concern or lost item through this screen. Your rating is anonymous to the driver, though Uber uses ratings to monitor driver performance. Drivers also rate passengers, and consistently low ratings can affect your future ride requests. If you forget to rate, you can do it later by opening the app, tapping your profile, and selecting "Your Trips."

Using Uber features to customize your ride

The Uber app includes several features to make your ride easier. Scheduled rides let you book a ride in advance — open the app, enter your destination, tap "Schedule," and pick a date and time. Favorite places

Uber Pass is a subscription that gives you discounts on rides if you take them regularly in your city. Share My TripAccessibility features

Common issues and how to handle them

If a driver cancels after accepting your request, you'll see a notification and return to the ride request screen. You can request another ride when ready. If you cancel after a driver has started driving toward you, Uber may charge a cancellation fee, which varies by city and how far the driver traveled. The app will show you the cancellation fee before you confirm the cancellation.

If your driver goes the wrong way or takes an unusually long route, you can message them through the app to ask about it. If you believe you were overcharged, you can dispute the fare by opening the app, going to "Your Trips," selecting the ride, and tapping "Help" — then choose "Fare Adjustment" and explain the issue. Uber will review your claim and may refund part of the fare. If you leave something in the car, tap "Help" on that trip and select "Lost Item" to contact the driver.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a credit card to use Uber?

No. You can use a debit card, PayPal account, or in some cities a bank account or digital wallet. You do need at least one payment method saved in the app before you request a ride.

What if I don't have a smartphone?

Uber requires the mobile app to request rides. You cannot order through a website or by phone. If you don't have a smartphone, you won't be able to use Uber's standard service.

Can I request a ride for someone else?

Yes. In the app, tap the profile icon, then "Add Passenger" or "Request for Someone Else," and enter their phone number. They'll receive a notification that you've requested a ride for them, and the driver will pick them up at the location you entered. You pay for the ride through your account.

What happens if I'm late and my driver cancels?

Drivers can cancel if they've been waiting more than a few minutes. If your driver cancels, you'll see a notification and can request another ride. You won't be charged if the driver cancels, but you may be charged a cancellation fee if you cancel after the driver has started driving toward you.

Is Uber available in my city?

Uber operates in most major cities in the United States and many cities worldwide, but not everywhere. Open the Uber app and enter your pickup address — if Uber is available in your area, you'll see ride options. If nothing appears, Uber doesn't currently serve that location.