Creating Your Uber Account
To use Uber, you need to create an account on the Uber app or website. read the Uber app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store, or go to uber.com on your computer. Open the app and tap "Sign Up" or click the sign-up link. You'll be asked to enter your phone number or email address, then create a password.
Uber will send a verification code to your phone or email — enter that code to confirm your identity. After that, you'll add your first and last name, and Uber will ask for your date of birth. Once you complete these steps, your account is created and ready to use.
Key Takeaways
- You can sign up through the Uber app or website using your phone number or email address and a password you create.
- Uber sends a verification code to confirm your identity before your account is fully set up.
- You must add a payment method — a debit card, credit card, or linked bank account — before you can request a ride.
- Your profile photo and rating system help drivers and riders identify each other and build trust on the platform.
- You can use the same account for both ride requests and food delivery through Uber Eats without creating a separate login.
Adding a Payment Method
Before you can request a ride, you need to add a way to pay. In the app, go to your account menu (usually your profile icon or initials), then select "Payment" or "Payment Methods." Tap "Add Payment Method" and choose whether you want to use a debit card, credit card, or bank account.
If you use a card, enter the card number, expiration date, and the three-digit security code on the back. If you link a bank account, Uber will ask for your routing number and account number — you can find these on a check or in your bank's app. Uber will verify the account by making two small deposits, which you'll confirm in the app within a few days.
You can add multiple payment methods and choose which one to use for each ride. Uber also lets you add a promotional code or gift card balance to your account, which will be used before your primary payment method.
Setting Up Your Profile
Your profile is how drivers and other riders recognize you. After you add your payment method, Uber will ask you to add a profile photo. Tap the camera icon next to your name and either take a new photo or choose one from your phone. Use a clear, recent photo of your face — this helps drivers identify you when they arrive.
You can also add emergency contacts in your account settings. These are people Uber can notify if something goes wrong during a ride. Add at least one contact's name and phone number. You can edit your profile information, phone number, or email address at any time by going to your account settings.
Understanding Your Rating and Reviews
After each ride, both you and the driver rate each other on a scale of one to five stars. Your rating appears on your profile and helps drivers decide whether to accept your ride request. Most riders maintain ratings between 4.6 and 5.0 stars. Ratings are based on how you treat the vehicle, whether you're ready when the driver arrives, and how you communicate.
You can see your rating by opening the app, going to your account menu, and looking for "Your Rating" or a similar option. If your rating drops below a certain threshold — usually around 4.6 stars — Uber may send you a message asking you to improve your behavior. You cannot see individual reviews, but you can see your overall rating number and star count.
Connecting Uber Eats to Your Account
If you want to order food delivery through Uber Eats, you don't need a separate account. Your Uber login works for both services. Open the Uber app and look for a toggle or menu option to switch between "Rides" and "Eats." Tap "Eats" and you'll see restaurants and food options in your area.
Your payment methods, saved addresses, and account information carry over to Uber Eats automatically. You can order food using the same card or bank account you set up for rides. If you prefer, you can also use the separate Uber Eats app, which uses the same login credentials.
Troubleshooting Common Sign-Up Problems
If you don't receive the verification code, check your spam or junk folder — sometimes it gets filtered there. If it's not there, tap "Resend Code" in the app and wait a few minutes. Make sure you entered your phone number or email correctly before requesting the code.
If your payment method is rejected, double-check that the card number, expiration date, and security code are correct. Some banks flag Uber charges as suspicious the first time — contact your bank to confirm the charge is legitimate, then try adding the card again. If you're using a bank account, make sure your routing number and account number match what your bank shows.
If you're having trouble downloading the app, make sure your phone has enough storage space and that you're using a supported version of iOS or Android. You can also sign up on uber.com using a web browser instead of the app.
What Happens After You Sign Up
Once your account is complete and your payment method is confirmed, you're ready to request a ride. Open the app, enter your pickup location and destination, and tap "Request." The app will show you the estimated fare and how many minutes until a driver arrives. You can watch the driver's location in real time as they head toward you.
Before your first ride, take a moment to review Uber's community guidelines and safety features. The app includes a share-my-trip option that lets you send your ride details to a friend or family member, an emergency button to contact local authorities, and a driver rating system so you know who you're riding with.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I sign up without a smartphone?
Yes. You can create an account on uber.com using a computer or tablet, add your payment method, and request rides through the website. However, the mobile app is easier to use during a ride because it shows real-time driver location and lets you communicate with the driver through the app.
Do I need a credit card, or can I use a debit card?
You can use either a debit card or credit card. You can also link a bank account directly. Uber accepts most major card types and will charge your chosen payment method after each ride.
What if I want to delete my account later?
Go to your account settings in the app, scroll to the bottom, and look for "Delete Account" or "Close Account." Tap it and follow the prompts. Uber will ask you to confirm and may ask why you're leaving. Once deleted, you can create a new account using the same phone number or email after 30 days.
Is my personal information safe when I sign up?
Uber encrypts your payment information and personal data. Your full name, phone number, and payment details are not shared with drivers — they only see your first name and pickup location. You control what information appears on your profile and can adjust privacy settings in your account menu.
Can I use Uber in other countries with my account?
Yes. Your Uber account works in most countries where Uber operates. When you travel, open the app and it will show available services in that location. Payment methods may vary by country — some places require a local payment option — but your account login remains the same.