What you need to sign up for Uber as a rider

To become an Uber rider, you need a smartphone with the Uber app installed, a valid payment method (credit card, debit card, or linked bank account), and a phone number where Uber can reach you. You'll also need to be at least 18 years old. The entire signup process takes about 5 to 10 minutes on your phone.

Uber does not require you to have a driver's license to ride — only drivers need one. You do not need to upload a photo or provide your full legal name, though the name you enter should match your payment method so there are no issues when you pay.

The app is free to read from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. Once you've installed it, you can open it and begin the signup flow without leaving your home.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a smartphone, the Uber app, a valid payment method, and a phone number to sign up as a rider.
  • The signup process happens entirely in the app and takes about 5 to 10 minutes from start to finish.
  • Your payment method must match the name you enter during signup, or payment may be declined when you request a ride.
  • Once you've signed up, you can request a ride when ready — there is no waiting period or approval step.
  • You can add multiple payment methods to your account after signup, and switch between them for each ride.

Step-by-step signup process

Open the Uber app and tap "Sign up" at the bottom of the login screen. You'll be asked to choose whether you're signing up as a rider or driver — select "Rider." Then enter your phone number and tap "Next." Uber will send you a text message with a verification code; enter that code in the app to confirm your number.

Next, enter your first and last name exactly as they appear on your payment method. Then add your email address — this is how Uber will send you receipts and account notifications. Create a password that you'll use to log in on other devices or if you reinstall the app.

Add your payment method by tapping the payment section. You can enter a credit card, debit card, or link a bank account directly. Uber will ask for the card number, expiration date, and CVV (the three-digit code on the back). If you're linking a bank account, you'll need your routing number and account number. After you've entered your payment details, tap "Save" and you're done.

You can now open the app, enter your pickup location, and request a ride. You do not need to wait for any confirmation or approval — rides are available when ready after signup.

Payment methods Uber accepts

Uber takes Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover credit and debit cards. You can also link a bank account directly through Uber's payment system. Some regions also accept digital wallets like Apple Pay or Google Pay if you've already added a card to those services.

When you request a ride, you can choose which payment method to use from the ones you've saved. You can add new payment methods at any time by going to the Account section of the app, tapping "Wallet," and selecting "Add payment method." If a payment method is declined during a ride, Uber will try the next one you have on file.

Uber does not accept cash for rides ordered through the app, though some cities have a "Cash" option that lets you pay the driver directly — you'll see this option at the bottom of the payment screen if it's available in your area.

What happens if signup fails or gets stuck

If your phone number is already linked to another Uber account, the app will ask you to log in to that account instead of creating a new one. If you've forgotten the password for that account, tap "Trouble logging in?" on the login screen and follow the password reset flow.

If your payment method is declined during signup, double-check that the name, card number, and expiration date match exactly what's on your card. Some banks flag Uber as a new merchant and block the charge temporarily — if this happens, contact your bank and ask them to allow Uber charges, then try adding the card again.

If the app crashes or closes during signup, straightforward reopen it and tap "Sign up" again. The app will remember the phone number you entered and ask you to verify it again, but you won't lose your progress. If you get stuck on the verification code step, make sure you're using the most recent code Uber sent — codes expire after 10 minutes.

Signing up with a promo code

If you have a promo code from a friend, a promotion, or an Uber marketing campaign, you can enter it during signup or after. During signup, look for a "Promo code" field near the bottom of the payment section — tap it and enter the code before you complete your first ride.

If you didn't enter a code during signup, you can add one later by opening the app, tapping the menu icon (three horizontal lines) in the top left, selecting "Wallet," and tapping "Promotions." Then tap "Add promo code" and enter the code. The discount or credit will appear in your account and will be applied automatically to your next may be able to access ride.

Promo codes usually have restrictions — they may only work on certain ride types, in certain cities, or before a specific date. The app will show you the terms when you enter the code, so you'll know whether it applies to the ride you're about to request.

Your account after signup

Once you've signed up, your Uber account is active and you can request rides when ready. You can view your account details by tapping the menu icon and selecting "Account." From there, you can update your name, email, phone number, or password at any time.

Your ride history appears in the "Your Trips" section, where you can see the date, time, pickup and dropoff locations, and cost of each ride. You can also rate your driver and leave comments about the ride — Uber uses these ratings to maintain driver quality.

If you want to pause your account temporarily or delete it permanently, you can do so from the Account menu. Deleting your account will erase your ride history and payment methods, though Uber will keep records for billing and legal purposes for a set period.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a credit card to sign up, or can I use a debit card?

You can use either a credit card or a debit card. You can also link a bank account directly. The name on whichever payment method you choose must match the name you enter during signup, or the payment may be declined when you request a ride.

What if I don't have a smartphone?

Uber requires the app to request rides, so you need a smartphone with either iOS or Android. You cannot request rides through a web browser or by phone. If you don't have a smartphone, you won't be able to use Uber as a rider.

Can I sign up with a temporary phone number or Google Voice number?

Uber requires a real phone number where they can send a verification code. Some users report success with Google Voice numbers, but Uber's system may reject them. If you use a temporary number service, Uber may not be able to reach you if there's an issue with your account or ride.

How long does it take to get verified after I sign up?

There is no waiting period. Once you've entered your phone number, name, email, and payment method, you can request a ride when ready. You don't need to wait for Uber to review or approve your account.

Can I change my name or payment method after I've signed up?

Yes. Open the app, tap the menu icon, select "Account," and you can update your name, email, phone number, or password. To change your payment method, go to "Wallet" and edit or remove cards. You can add new payment methods at any time.