What Uber for Kids Does

Uber for Kids is a feature within the Uber app that lets parents book rides for children without the parent being in the car. The driver is notified that a minor is riding alone, and the parent can track the trip in real time on their phone. When the child reaches their destination, the driver confirms the drop-off and the parent receives a notification.

This is different from a regular Uber ride. With Uber for Kids, you are not riding along — your child travels with a driver you have booked through the app, and you monitor the journey remotely. The service is designed for older children who can ride independently but whose parents want visibility and control over the trip.

Uber for Kids is not available in all cities or all regions. Availability depends on where you live and whether Uber has rolled out the feature in your area. You can check whether it is available to you by opening the Uber app and looking for the option when you request a ride.

Key Takeaways

  • Uber for Kids lets you book a ride for your child through the Uber app, and you track the trip in real time from your phone.
  • The driver is told a minor is riding alone and must confirm the child's identity before the ride begins.
  • You set up a child account linked to your own Uber account, and you control who can book rides and when.
  • The service is only available in certain cities, and you must meet age and other requirements set by Uber.
  • You pay for the ride through your Uber account, just as you would for any other trip.

How to Set Up a Child Account

To use Uber for Kids, you first create a child account within your own Uber app. Open the Uber app, go to the Account tab, and look for the option to add a child. You will need to enter your child's name, date of birth, and a photo. Uber uses the photo to verify your child's identity when they get into the car.

Once the account is created, your child can use the Uber app on their own phone, or you can book rides for them from your phone. If your child has their own phone with the Uber app, they will see a simplified version of the app designed for minors — it does not show payment information or allow them to change ride settings.

You remain in control of the account. You can turn ride requests on or off, set time windows for when rides are allowed, and receive notifications about every trip. Your child cannot change these settings or book rides outside the times you have set.

What Happens During the Ride

When you book a ride for your child, the driver receives a notification that a minor is riding alone. The driver must confirm your child's identity by checking the photo in the app against your child's face before the ride starts. This is a safety step built into the process.

Once the ride begins, you can watch the route in real time on your phone. You see the car's location, the driver's name and photo, and the estimated arrival time. Your child can also see this information on their phone. If something feels wrong, you can contact the driver through the app or call 911.

When your child reaches their destination, the driver confirms the drop-off in the app. You receive a notification that the ride is complete. The driver cannot end the ride until they have confirmed that your child has exited the vehicle.

Age Requirements and Restrictions

Uber for Kids is designed for children ages 13 and up, though the exact age requirement may vary by region. Uber does not allow children under a certain age to ride alone, even with parental permission. Check your local Uber app or Uber's website to confirm the minimum age in your area.

Your child must have a valid form of identification to use the service. When the driver checks your child's photo against their face, the photo must match clearly. If your child's appearance has changed significantly since the photo was taken, you may need to update it.

You can set restrictions on when and where your child can ride. For example, you might allow rides only between 3 p.m. and 6 p.m., or only to and from school. These settings are controlled through your Uber account, and your child cannot override them.

Cost and Payment

Uber for Kids rides are charged at the same rate as regular Uber rides in your area. You pay through your Uber account using the payment method you have on file — a credit card, debit card, or other payment option. Your child does not see payment information or have access to payment settings.

The cost depends on the distance, time of day, and current demand in your area, just like any other Uber ride. Surge pricing can explore during busy times. You can see the estimated fare before you request the ride, so there are no surprises.

Some cities or regions may offer discounts or promotions for Uber for Kids rides. Check your Uber app for any current offers in your area.

Safety Features and Parental Controls

Uber for Kids includes several built-in safety features. The driver is informed that a minor is riding, and Uber's background check process for drivers is the same as for regular Uber rides. The real-time tracking lets you see exactly where your child is at all times during the trip.

You can set up emergency contacts within the child account. If something goes wrong, your child can contact you or another trusted adult directly from the app. You also have the option to contact the driver through the app if you need to communicate during the ride.

Uber for Kids does not replace your judgment as a parent. You should talk to your child about ride safety, make sure they know what to do if they feel unsafe, and review their trips regularly. The app is a tool to help you monitor and control your child's rides, not a may provide of safety.

What to Do If Uber for Kids Is Not Available in Your Area

If Uber for Kids is not available where you live, you have other options. You can book a regular Uber ride and ride along with your child. You can also use other ride-sharing services that offer similar features, though availability varies by location.

Some families use traditional options like school transportation, carpools with other parents, or local taxi services that allow minors to ride alone. Each option has different costs, safety features, and levels of parental control.

Check back with the Uber app periodically. Uber continues to expand Uber for Kids to new cities, so it may become available in your area in the future.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can my child request a ride on their own, or do I have to book it for them?

Both are possible. If your child has the Uber app on their phone, they can request a ride themselves within the settings you have configured. You can also book rides for them from your phone. Either way, you control the account and receive notifications about every trip.

What if my child loses their phone during a ride?

You can still track the ride from your phone and contact the driver through the app. The driver can also see the trip details and your contact information. If you cannot reach the driver, you can call 911 or contact Uber support through the app.

Can I see a history of all my child's rides?

Yes. Your Uber account shows a complete history of all rides booked for your child, including the date, time, route, driver name, and cost. You can review this history anytime through the app.

What happens if the driver cancels the ride?

If the driver cancels after accepting the ride, you will be notified in the app. You will not be charged. You can then request another ride or choose a different transportation option.

Is Uber for Kids more expensive than a regular Uber ride?

No. Uber for Kids rides are charged at the same rate as regular Uber rides. The price is based on distance, time, and demand, not on whether a minor is riding.