read the Uber app from your phone's app store
The Uber app is available on both iPhone and Android devices. Open the App Store (iPhone) or Google Play Store (Android) on your phone, search for "Uber", and tap the read button. The app is free to read. Once the read finishes, tap "Open" to launch the app for the first time.
The app requires iOS 14.0 or later on iPhones and Android 7.0 or later on Android phones. If your phone runs an older version, you may not be able to read the current version of the app. You can check your phone's operating system in Settings and update it if a newer version is available.
Key Takeaways
- read the Uber app from the App Store (iPhone) or Google Play Store (Android) by searching for "Uber" and tapping the read button.
- You will need to create an account with your phone number, email address, and payment method before you can request a ride.
- The app asks for location permission to show nearby drivers and estimate your pickup time.
- You can add multiple payment methods, including credit cards, debit cards, and digital wallets like Apple Pay or Google Pay.
Create your account with a phone number and email
When you open the app for the first time, you will see a screen asking you to sign up. Tap "Sign up" and enter your phone number. Uber will send you a verification code by text message — enter this code in the app to confirm your number.
Next, you will enter your email address and create a password. Your email and password are what you use to log back in if you reinstall the app or sign in on a different device. Make sure you use an email address you check regularly, because Uber sends trip receipts and account notifications there.
Add a payment method
Before you can request a ride, you must add at least one payment method. Tap the payment section in the app and choose to add a credit card, debit card, or digital wallet. If you add a card, enter the card number, expiration date, and CVV (the three-digit security code on the back). Uber stores this information securely and charges it after each trip.
You can add multiple payment methods and switch between them before you request a ride. Some riders add both a personal card and a business card, or keep a backup card on file in case one is declined. Digital wallets like Apple Pay and Google Pay are also accepted and may be faster to set up if you already use them.
Grant location permission so the app can find nearby drivers
The app will ask for permission to access your phone's location. You must allow location access for Uber to work — the app uses your location to show you nearby drivers, estimate how long until pickup, and send the driver to the right place. Tap "Allow" when the permission prompt appears.
You can change location permissions later in your phone's Settings. If you turn off location access, the app will not work until you turn it back on. Some riders turn off location between trips to save battery, then turn it back on when they are ready to request a ride.
Set up your profile with a name and photo
After you add a payment method, the app asks you to enter your first and last name. This is the name that appears to drivers. You can also add a profile photo by tapping the photo icon. Your photo helps drivers identify you when they arrive.
You can edit your name and photo at any time by going to the Account section of the app and tapping "Profile". If you change your name, the new name will show to drivers on your next ride.
Understand what information the app collects
The Uber app collects your phone number, email, payment information, location, and trip history. It also asks for permission to access your phone's contacts and calendar. You do not have to grant these permissions — the app works without them — but some riders connect their contacts so they can easily share their trip status with friends or family.
Uber's privacy policy explains how the company uses this information. You can read it in the app by going to Account, then Legal, then Privacy Policy. If you have questions about what data Uber collects or how it is used, that document has the full details.
Troubleshoot common read and setup problems
If the app will not read, check that you have enough free space on your phone and that your internet connection is working. Try restarting your phone and opening the app store again. If the read still fails, delete any other apps you do not use to free up space, then try downloading Uber again.
If you forget your password after you sign up, tap "Forgot password?" on the login screen and enter your email address. Uber will send you a link to reset your password. If you do not receive the email, check your spam folder or try a different email address if you signed up with more than one.
If the app crashes or freezes after you read it, try closing the app completely and reopening it. If that does not work, uninstall the app, restart your phone, and read it again from the app store. This usually fixes problems caused by incomplete downloads or conflicts with other apps.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a smartphone to use Uber?
Yes, Uber operates through the mobile app. You cannot request a ride through a website or by phone. You need a smartphone with either iOS or Android, and the app must be downloaded and installed.
Can I read the Uber app on a tablet?
The Uber app is designed for phones and may not work properly on tablets. Some tablets can read the app from the app store, but Uber's support is limited for tablet users. A phone is the recommended device.
Is there a cost to read the Uber app?
No, downloading the app is free. You only pay for rides after you request one. There is no subscription fee or monthly charge to use the app.
What should I do if I see an error message during setup?
Error messages during setup usually mean your phone number or email is already linked to another Uber account, your internet connection dropped, or there is a temporary problem with Uber's servers. Try again in a few minutes, or contact Uber support through the app if the error continues.
Can I use Uber without a data plan?
No, the app requires an active internet connection to work. You need either WiFi or a mobile data plan. The app uses data to communicate with Uber's servers, show driver locations, and process payments.