Last updated on June 21st, 2020
Whether you’re running an errand across town or exploring a city far from home or going to an Aiport, getting there should be easy. Learn how to ride with the Uber app.
Steps
- Create an Account – You will need to create an account which you can do from your browser or from the Uber App on your mobile. To download the app, go to the App Store or Google Play. You will need a valid email address and phone number.
- Enter your destination – Open the app and enter where you are going in the Where to? box. Tap to confirm your pickup location and tap Confirm again to be matched to the driver nearby.
- Meet your Captain – You can track their arrival on the map. When they are a few minutes away, wait for them at your pickup location.
- Check your ride – Every time you take a trip with Uber, please make sure you’re getting into the right car with the right driver by matching the license plate, car make and model, and driver photo with what’s provided in your app.
Uber trips can only be requested through the app, so never get in a car where the vehicle or driver identity doesn’t match what’s displayed in your app.
- Sit Back and Relax – When you arrive, payment is easy. Depending on your region, you have options. Use cash or a payment method like a credit card or Uber Cash balance.
- Rate your trip – Let User know how your trip went. You can also give your driver a compliment or add a tip to the app.
Service Tiers
Uber offers a range of service tiers, spanning from single riders and groups up to executive limo services:
- UberX is the cheapest and most commonly used form of Uber. Vehicles are ordinary, four-door, late models that fit up to four riders. Fares run up to half those of taxis in major cities.
- UberPOOL, offered in some cities, allows you to share your ride with another person and split the cost.
- UberXL can accommodate six passengers, using an SUV or minivan; it’s more expensive than UberX.
- UberSelect offers four-rider luxury sedans with leather interiors in brands such as Audi, Mercedes, and BMW. Expect to pay a premium price.
- UberBLACK is a luxury limousine service, with appropriate pricing.
How much Does Uber Cost?
One common question new riders have is how much Uber will cost. Let’s break down the different factors Uber uses to calculates your fare to get a better understanding of what you’ll pay.
First, it’s important to understand that there are two ways Uber calculates your fares: upfront fares and post-trip fares. The type depends on your city. We’ll look at upfront fares first.
Upfront Uber Fares
The upfront fare is the most common, and it’s a major advantage of using Uber over a traditional taxi. The fare you pay will be displayed once you’ve selected your destination and pickup location. You know exactly what the ride will cost before your driver even arrives.
- A base rate – This is the minimum amount you pay to take any Uber ride, which ensures that drivers always receive reasonable compensation. The base rate depends on your city and is subject to change. You can get a sense of your city’s base rate using a fare estimator, which we’ll discuss below.
- Rates for estimated time and distance of the route – These charges account for the distance (which can be known in advance using GPS) and the time (which Uber can estimate but is subject to change due to traffic, road closures, and other conditions that are difficult to predict).
- The current demand for rides in the area – Basic economics apply to Uber: the higher the demand, the higher the price. You can expect higher prices during rush hour, late at night when bars close, and if there are sporting events, concerts, or other events happening.
Post-Trip Uber Fares
For some cities, local regulations don’t allow Uber to provide upfront fares. Instead, you’ll receive notification of the total trip charge once you’ve completed your ride. Other than that, the process of taking and paying for the ride is exactly the same as one with an upfront fare.
If you use Uber regularly, you’ll gain an idea of what costs will be through experience.