Uber has revolutionized public transportation. With just a few quick taps on a screen, you can book your own private city trip. However, if you’ve never tried Uber before, you might be a little confused about how to get started.
Fortunately, the process is very simple. In this article, we will show you how to use Uber.
How to use Uber for the first time: download and register
First things first, before going anywhere with Uber, you must download and install the official app on your phone; It also works on computers, but the mobile option is more convenient and flexible, so we recommend starting with that. If you choose to use Uber on your computer, keep in mind that you won’t be able to make any changes to your trip while you’re en route.
- If you have an Android device, you’ll find the Uber app on the Google Play Store. In the meantime, Apple fans and iPhone devotees can head to the App Store and download Uber from there.
- Wait a few moments while the app installs on your phone (or tablet) and then tap the black Uber icon to open it.
- Since this is your first time working with the Uber app, you will have to create an account by entering your personal information: name, phone number, email address, etc.
- You’ll also need to protect your account with a super strong password; Try including a combination of letters and numbers to make your profile harder to hack.
- With all your personal information entered, the app will also ask you to add a payment method. Uber accepts a wide range of payment options, such as credit and debit cards, along with digital payment services, with PayPal and Venmo being popular with many users. Do you prefer to pay the old way? Uber also allows you to set “Cash” as your method of choice and hand bills and coins to your driver upon arrival. If you don’t want to add any payment details right away, you can skip this step and come back to it later.
Request a ride
Once you’re registered and logged into the Uber app, it’s time to request your first ride. This is where things can get tricky for newbies. But once you understand the basic process and take a few rides, you’ll soon become an Uber master.
- When you open the app, Uber will automatically determine your current location using your phone’s location technology and show you a small map of the surrounding area. If this doesn’t work, it may be because you haven’t enabled location services or you have a connection problem. Make sure you 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 it and type 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 find it.
- Alternatively, you may prefer to use the app’s built-in map. Simply scroll with your fingers and set the desired destination using the simple pin icon.
- If you plan to make a stop or two along the way, tap the + icon in the app and enter the address details of the other locations you want to visit; This allows you to stay in the same car and visit multiple destinations.
Choose your vehicle
Next, you’ll need to choose a vehicle type, check the fare, and confirm your trip. This can be a little disconcerting for beginners, since Uber has many types of rides. But after a few tries, you’ll start to discover the differences.
- UberX is the default option and should work in most situations, so it’s best to choose it for your first trip. You will have time to learn about the other options later.
- However, if you have any special requirements (for example, traveling with a wheelchair or a pet), you will need to consult the list and select the most suitable type of travel.
- After selecting a vehicle, you’ll see the total fare for your trip. Be careful: 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 a little more than you expected.
- If you are satisfied with the rate, press the Request button to confirm the order. You should also check the correct pickup location so the driver knows where to pick you up.
- At this point, all you have to do is wait for the driver to arrive (often just a matter of minutes). In the meantime, please stay in the pickup area as the driver will go there. If he strays too far, he may lose them.
Identifying your journey
Once your driver arrives, you can get in the car and leave. However, there are a couple of things you should 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 alert you once he or she approaches. That’s your cue to make sure you’re at the right pickup location and start scanning the road for your driver’s car.
- Once the driver arrives, do not rush to get into the vehicle immediately. It is highly recommended to verify the identity of the driver, which you can do through the photo and additional information provided to you on the app screen: Uber tells you everything about your trip, from the color of the vehicle to the license plate, so you shouldn’t make a mistake.
- After confirming the ride is correct, get in, buckle up, and enjoy the ride. You can chat with your driver if you wish or just sit back and relax.
- Uber will track your entire trip through GPS technology and provide directions to the driver as you go. No need to worry about wrong turns or miscommunication.
Arriving at your destination
The driver will take you to the chosen address. But what happens next? This is the usual procedure to follow when your trip comes to an end:
- Upon arrival, the fee will be automatically charged to any payment method set as the default option on your account.
- You will also be asked to rate your trip. Drivers rely on 5-star ratings to stay employed by the company, so it’s always good to leave a good rating, as long as the trip went well.
Frequent questions
How does Uber work?
Uber is like a colossal taxi network, with cars and drivers all over the world, in big cities, small towns, and everywhere in between. With a couple of quick taps, users can request a ride and a driver will automatically be sent to pick them up. Naturally, all drivers are vetted for safety reasons, and Uber tracks every trip using GPS to ensure everyone arrives safely at their destination. It is one of the safest and most economical alternatives to using your own vehicle or depending on public transportation.
What are the different types of Uber trips?
At first, Uber only offered one type of ride, but has introduced a wider variety of options as the years have gone by. Now, we’re at the point where you can choose from a plethora of travel styles, every time you open the Uber app. UberX is the default standard service which should serve you well in most situations, but Uber Select and Black are great for those who love to travel in style, and there are other options to save money, such as UberPool, or for disabled passengers, such as Uber WAV .
How much does Uber cost?
The cost of Uber trips depends on several factors, such as the travel style you choose, how far you travel, whether you need to make any stops, and whether or not it’s rush hour. Naturally, a long trip in a fancy car during peak traffic hours will cost significantly more than a quick hop around town in a basic UberX.
Take your first ride with Uber today!
Whether you want a quick and easy way to get to work or need a quick ride across town to your dentist appointment, Uber can make it happen. Once you’ve set up an account, you’ll be able to book your first Uber ride with ease.
Have you used Uber before? What is your favorite type of trip? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.
