How to Use Uber

Uber has revolutionized public transportation. With just a few quick taps of a screen, you can book your own private ride across town. However, if you’ve never tried Uber before, you might be a little confused about how to get started.

Fortunately, the process is as straightforward as it gets. In this article, we’ll show you how to use Uber.

How to Use Uber for the First Time: Download and Sign Up

First things first, before going anywhere with Uber, you’ve got to get the official app downloaded and installed to your phone – it also works on computers, but the mobile option is more convenient and flexible, so we recommend starting with that. If you do opt to use Uber on computer, note that you won’t be able to make any amendments to your ride while en route.

• If you have an Android device, you’ll find the Uber app at the Google Play Store. Meanwhile, Apple fans and iPhone devotees can head to the App Store and download Uber from there.
  
• Wait just a few moments as the app installs to your phone (or tablet) and then tap on the black Uber icon to open it up.
  
• Since this is your first time working with the Uber app, you’ll have to make an account, entering your personal information: name, phone, email address, etc.
  
• You’ll also need to secure your account with a super strong password – try to include a mixture of letters and numbers to make your profile harder to hack.
• With all the personal info entered, the app will also ask you to add a payment method. Uber accepts a wide range of payment options, like credit and debit cards, along with digital payment services, with PayPal and Venmo proving popular with many users. Prefer to pay the old-fashioned way? Uber also lets you set “Cash” as your method of choice and hand over bills and coins to your driver upon arrival. If you don’t feel like adding any payment details right away, you can skip this step and return to it later.
  

Ordering a Ride

Once you’re all signed up and logged into the Uber app, it’s time to order your very first ride. This is where things may become tricky for newbies. But once you understand the basic process and take a few rides, you’ll soon become an Uber master.

• Upon opening the app, Uber will automatically figure out your current location using your phone’s location technology, and show you a little map of the surrounding area. If this isn’t working, it may be because you haven’t enabled location services, or you have a connection problem. Be sure to turn on location tracking whenever you want to use Uber.
• At the top of the screen, you should see a box labeled “Where to?” Tap on it and type in the address or name of the place you want to reach. As you type, Uber will provide you with a list of suggestions. Simply tap the right one as soon as you spot it.
  
• Alternatively, you might prefer to use the app’s built-in map. Just scroll around with your fingers and set your desired destination using the simple pin icon.
  
• If you’re planning to make a pit-stop or two along the way, tap the + icon in the app and enter the address details for the other locations you wish to visit – this allows you to stay in the same car and visit multiple destinations.

Choosing Your Vehicle

Next, you’ll have to pick a vehicle type, check the fare, and confirm your ride. This might be slightly bewildering for first-timers, as Uber has such a lot of ride types. But after a few tries, you’ll start to figure out the differences.

• UberX is the default option and should be fine for most situations, so it’s best to pick that for your first ride. You’ll have time to learn about the other options later on.
  
• However, if you have any special requirements (e.g. traveling with a wheelchair or with a pet), you’ll need to look through the list and select the most appropriate ride type.
• After selecting a vehicle, you’ll see the total fare for your ride. Be warned: in some locations, Uber may only be able to give you an estimated fare, rather than an exact one. As such, you may end up paying slightly more than you expected.
  
• If you’re happy with the fare, hit the Request button to confirm the order. You should also verify the correct pick-up location so the driver knows where to collect you.
  
• At this point, all you’ve have to do is wait for the driver to arrive (often just a matter of minutes). In the meantime, stay around the pick-up area, as that’s where the driver will be heading. If you roam too far away, you might miss them.

Identifying Your Ride

Once your driver arrives, you’ll be able to get into the car and set off. However, there are a couple of quick things to keep in mind before you go:

• While you wait, you can scan the on-screen map to track your driver’s movements, and the Uber app will ping you once they get close. That’s your cue to make sure you’re in the right pick-up spot and start scanning the road to look for your driver’s car.
  
• Once the driver arrives, don’t simply rush into the vehicle right away. It’s strongly recommended to verify the driver’s identity, which you can do via the photo and additional information given to you on the app screen – Uber tells you all about your ride, from the color of the vehicle to the license plate, so you shouldn’t make a mistake.
• After confirming the ride is the right one, climb in, buckle up, and enjoy the journey. You can chat with your driver if you like, or just sit back and relax.
• Uber will track your entire ride via GPS technology, providing directions to the driver as they go. There’s no need to worry about wrong turns or miscommunication.

Arriving at Your Destination

The driver will take you all the way to your chosen address. But what happens next? Here’s the usual procedure to follow as your journey comes to an end:

• Upon arrival, the fare will automatically be charged to whichever payment method is set as the default option on your account.
• You’ll also be asked to rate your ride. Drivers rely on 5-star ratings to remain employed with the company, so it’s always nice to leave a good score, as long as the ride went well.
  

FAQs

How does Uber work?

Uber is like a colossal taxi network, with cars and drivers all over the globe in big cities, small towns, and everywhere in between. With a couple of quick taps, users can order a ride, and a driver will automatically be sent to pick them up. Naturally, the drivers are all vetted for security reasons, and Uber tracks each ride via GPS to ensure that everyone arrives safely at their destination. It’s one of the safest and cheapest alternatives to using own vehicle or relying on public transport.

What are the different Uber ride types?

In the early days, Uber only offered one ride type, but it’s introduced a broader variety of options as the years have gone by. Now, we’re at a point where you can take your pick from a whole host of ride styles, every time you open the Uber app. UberX is the standard, default service that should serve you well in most situations, but Uber Select and Black are great for those who love to ride in style, and there are other options for saving money, like UberPool, or for disabled riders, like Uber WAV.

How much does Uber cost?

The cost of Uber journeys depends on several factors, like which style of ride you choose, how far you’re traveling, whether you need to make any stops, and whether it’s peak time or not. Naturally, a long ride in a fancy car during peak traffic hours will cost significantly more than a quick hop across town in a basic UberX.

Take Your First Ride with Uber Today!

Whether you want a fast and simple way to get to work or need a quick ride across town for your dentist appointment, Uber can make it happen. Once you’ve set up an account, you can book your first Uber ride with ease.

Have you used Uber before? What’s your favorite type of ride? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.