Uber's car rental service lets you rent a vehicle by the hour or day through the Uber app, without visiting a rental counter

Uber Car Rental, called Uber Eats in some markets, operates through the same app you use for rides. You search for available vehicles near you, see the hourly or daily rate, and book directly. The car is unlocked through the app, and you return it to a designated location when done. Pricing varies by city, vehicle type, and demand — there is no single national rate.

The service is available in select US cities and some international markets. Not every city has it yet, and availability changes as Uber expands or pauses the program in different regions. You can check whether it operates in your area by opening the Uber app and looking for a "Rent" tab or category.

Key Takeaways

  • Uber Car Rental charges by the hour or day, with rates that vary by location and vehicle type, and you book and unlock the car through the Uber app.
  • You must be at least 18 years old, have a valid driver's license, and pass Uber's background check to rent a vehicle.
  • Insurance, gas, and tolls are typically your responsibility unless Uber's terms in your city state otherwise, so check the rental agreement before booking.
  • The service is not available in all cities, and you can see whether it operates near you by checking the Uber app directly.

Who can rent through Uber

You must have an active Uber account with a valid payment method on file. Uber requires you to be at least 18 years old and hold a valid driver's license. Your license must be from the United States or an accepted country, and it cannot be expired.

Uber runs a background check on all renters. The exact criteria Uber uses are not public, but the check typically screens for serious driving violations, major accidents, and criminal history. If you are denied, Uber will tell you that you did not pass the background check, but the company does not always explain the specific reason.

Hourly and daily rental rates

Hourly rates start around $8 to $15 per hour in most cities, though this varies widely. Daily rates (usually a 24-hour period) typically range from $40 to $80, depending on the vehicle class and location. Rates are higher during peak demand times, similar to how Uber's ride prices work.

The app shows you the exact rate for your location and the specific time you want to rent before you confirm the booking. Rates can change based on demand, so checking the app at different times may show different prices for the same vehicle type. Some cities may have promotional rates or discounts for longer rentals, but these are not standard across all markets.

What you pay beyond the rental rate

The hourly or daily rate covers the vehicle itself, but you are responsible for fuel, tolls, and parking fees. If you return the car with less fuel than when you picked it up, Uber will charge you for a refill — the cost is typically higher than filling up at a gas station yourself. Check your rental agreement in the app to see the exact refill charge for your location.

Insurance is usually your responsibility. Some renters are covered under their personal auto insurance policy if they rent a car, but this varies by policy and insurer. Uber may offer optional damage waiver coverage for an additional daily fee, which reduces your liability if the car is damaged. Read the terms carefully before booking to understand what you are and are not covered for.

How to book and return a vehicle

Open the Uber app and tap the "Rent" section if it appears in your city. Search for available vehicles in your area, select one, and choose your rental start and end time. The app will show you the total cost before you confirm. Once you book, the app provides directions to the vehicle's location and instructions for unlocking it.

When you are done, return the car to the designated location shown in the app. The rental ends when you lock the car and confirm the return in the app. You will receive a receipt with the final charges, including any fuel or damage fees. If there are disputes about charges or vehicle condition, you can contact Uber support through the app.

Vehicle types and what they include

Uber typically offers economy cars for basic transportation and larger vehicles like SUVs for groups or cargo. The specific models available depend on your city and current inventory. The app shows you the vehicle's make, model, year, and mileage before you book.

All vehicles come with basic insurance coverage as required by law, but the extent of your personal liability depends on the damage waiver option you choose. The car includes a full tank of gas at pickup, and you are expected to return it at the same fuel level. Some vehicles may have tolls or parking passes already loaded, but you are responsible for any additional tolls you incur during your rental.

Cancellations and changes

If you cancel before the rental period begins, Uber typically does not charge you, though this may depend on how close to the start time you cancel. If you cancel after the rental has started, you will be charged for the time the car was in your possession. The exact cancellation policy appears in the rental agreement when you book.

If you need to extend your rental, you can do so through the app before your current period ends. Extending usually costs the same hourly or daily rate as your original booking. If you are unable to return the car on time, contact Uber support when ready to avoid additional charges or penalties.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Uber Car Rental available in my city?

Open the Uber app and look for a "Rent" tab or category. If it appears, the service operates in your area. If you do not see it, the service is not currently available where you are. Availability changes as Uber expands to new cities.

What happens if the car is damaged during my rental?

You are liable for damage unless you purchased the optional damage waiver. If damage occurs, report it to Uber through the app with photos. Uber will assess the damage and may charge you for repairs. The damage waiver limits your out-of-pocket cost if you have it.

Can I rent a car for someone else?

No. The person who books the rental must be the one driving it. Uber requires the renter to pass the background check and hold a valid license. You cannot book a car for another person to use.

What if I run out of gas or the car breaks down?

Contact Uber support through the app when ready. Uber will provide roadside information or arrange a replacement vehicle depending on the situation. Do not attempt to refuel or repair the car on your own without contacting Uber first.

Do I need my own insurance to rent through Uber?

Your personal auto insurance may or may not cover rental cars — check your policy. Uber offers optional damage waiver coverage for an additional fee that reduces your liability. Review both options before booking to understand your coverage.