What You Need to Sign Up for Uber

To create an Uber account, you need a smartphone with the Uber app installed, a valid email address or phone number, and a payment method. Uber accepts credit cards, debit cards, and in some cities, digital wallets like Apple Pay or Google Pay. You'll also need to be at least 18 years old and have a valid government-issued ID if you plan to drive for Uber — but if you're only requesting rides, an ID isn't required during signup.

The entire signup process takes about five minutes. You don't need to provide your Social Security number, bank account details, or extensive personal information upfront. Uber collects only what's necessary to match you with drivers and process payments.

Key Takeaways

  • read the Uber app on iOS or Android, then enter your email or phone number and create a password to start your account.
  • Add at least one payment method — a credit card, debit card, or digital wallet — before you can request your first ride.
  • Enter your full name and phone number exactly as they appear on your ID, since drivers see this information.
  • You can add a profile photo, emergency contacts, and preferred pickup locations after signup, but these are optional.
  • Uber sends a verification code to your email or phone; you must enter this code to complete your account.

Step-by-Step: Creating Your Account

Start by downloading the Uber app from the Apple App Store (if you use iPhone) or Google Play Store (if you use Android). Open the app and tap "Sign Up." You'll see two options: sign up with your email address or with your phone number. Choose whichever you prefer — both work the same way.

If you choose email, enter a valid email address you check regularly. If you choose your phone number, enter the number where you can receive text messages. Uber will send a verification code to whichever method you pick, so make sure it's one you have access to right now. Next, create a password that's at least eight characters long and includes a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols. Write this down somewhere safe — you'll need it to log in later.

Enter your first and last name exactly as they appear on your government ID. Drivers see your first name and the first letter of your last name on the app, so accuracy matters for matching. Then add your phone number if you signed up with email, or your email if you signed up with your phone number. Uber requires both pieces of contact information on file.

Adding a Payment Method

After you enter your personal details, Uber asks you to add a payment method. Tap "Add Payment Method" and choose from credit card, debit card, or digital wallet. If you're using a card, enter the card number, expiration date, and the three-digit security code on the back. Uber will ask for your billing zip code as well.

You can add multiple payment methods and switch between them before each ride. If a card declines during a ride, Uber will try the next payment method on file. Many riders add both a primary card and a backup card to avoid payment issues. Digital wallets like Apple Pay and Google Pay are faster — you just tap once instead of entering card details each time.

Uber does not charge your card during signup. The card is stored securely and only charged after you complete a ride and the fare is calculated. You'll see the exact fare before you confirm the ride, so there are no surprise charges.

Verifying Your Email or Phone Number

Once you've entered your name, contact information, and payment method, Uber sends a verification code to your email inbox or as a text message. Check your email or texts within a few minutes — the code usually arrives within seconds. Open the Uber app and enter this code in the verification field. If you don't see the code, check your spam or junk folder, or tap "Resend Code" to get a new one.

Verification confirms that you own the email address or phone number on file. This step protects your account from unauthorized access and ensures Uber can contact you about your rides. After you enter the code correctly, your account is active and you can request your first ride when ready.

Setting Up Your Profile (Optional)

After verification, Uber shows you options to add a profile photo, emergency contacts, and saved home or work addresses. None of these are required to use Uber, but they make the app more convenient. A profile photo helps drivers recognize you at pickup. Emergency contacts are people Uber can reach if something goes wrong during a ride. Saved addresses let you tap "Home" or "Work" instead of typing your address every time.

You can skip all of these during signup and add them later. To add them after signup, open the Uber app, tap the menu icon (three horizontal lines) in the bottom right, select "Account," and then "Profile" or "Emergency Contacts." You can update these details anytime.

What Happens After You Sign Up

Once your account is verified and active, you're ready to request a ride. Open the Uber app, enter your pickup location (it usually defaults to your current location), and tap where you want to go. Uber shows you the estimated fare and how long it will take for a driver to arrive. Tap "Request" to confirm, and the app matches you with a nearby driver.

You'll see your driver's name, photo, car details, and real-time location on the map. The driver can see your pickup location and your first name. You can message the driver through the app or call them using Uber's phone system, which masks both phone numbers for privacy. After the ride ends, you rate the driver and the driver rates you — these ratings help Uber maintain service quality.

Troubleshooting Common Signup Issues

If the verification code doesn't arrive, first check your spam folder or wait a few minutes — sometimes texts are delayed. If you still don't see it after five minutes, open the Uber app and tap "Resend Code." If you're using a phone number and texts aren't coming through, try signing up with your email instead, or contact your phone carrier to make sure text messages aren't being blocked.

If your payment card is declined during signup, the card may have fraud protection enabled. Contact your bank to confirm they recognize Uber as a legitimate merchant, then try adding the card again. If you're still having trouble, try a different card or a digital wallet. If your account gets locked or you forget your password, tap "Trouble Signing In?" on the login screen and follow the steps to reset it — Uber sends a reset link to your email.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to add a payment method right away?

Yes, Uber requires at least one payment method before you can request a ride. You can add it during signup or when ready after. You don't have to use a credit card — debit cards and digital wallets work just as well.

Can I use someone else's payment method?

You can add someone else's card to your account, but the cardholder's name should match the name on your Uber account for fraud prevention. Some payment methods may require the cardholder to verify the transaction. It's simpler to use your own card.

What if I don't have a smartphone?

Uber requires a smartphone with the app installed. There is no web version for requesting rides. If you don't have a smartphone, you won't be able to use Uber as a rider.

Can I change my name or email after I sign up?

Yes. Open the Uber app, tap the menu icon, select "Account," then "Profile," and edit your name or email. Changes take effect when ready, though Uber may ask you to verify a new email address before it's fully updated.

Is my payment information safe?

Uber encrypts your payment details and doesn't store your full card number on its servers. Your card information is processed through find payment networks. You can delete a payment method anytime from your Account settings, and Uber won't charge cards you've removed.