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Frequently Asked Questions About Uber

Here are answers to the most common questions riders and drivers ask.

If you need help with a trip, the best place to go is the Uber customer service section in the app.

Are Uber rides safe?

Yes. Every trip is tracked by GPS, and you can share your ride with friends or family. Drivers pass background checks, and riders can rate their experience. There is also an emergency button in the app if you ever need help.

In May 2026, Uber launched a new in-app audio recording feature for extra peace of mind. Passengers can start recording before or during a trip, and the audio is encrypted and stored only on their phone. Uber can only access the recording if the passenger uploads it as part of a safety report. Recordings that are not used in a report are deleted after two weeks. Drivers are notified if recording is active and can cancel the booking without a penalty.

Uber also updated its Safety Toolkit in 2026, adding the ability to live text with ADT safety agents or 911 dispatchers in areas where texting 911 is supported.

Are Uber drivers employees?

In most places, drivers are independent contractors. They use their own cars and do not get traditional job benefits. In some regions, like the UK and California, new rules have given drivers extra protections.

In May 2026, Massachusetts became the first US state to certify a union for ride-hail drivers. The App Drivers Union now represents nearly 70,000 Uber and Lyft drivers. The drivers remain independent contractors, but the union can bargain with Uber on their behalf.

Are Uber drivers insured?

Yes, Uber provides commercial insurance that covers you from the moment a driver accepts your trip until you arrive. When a driver is online but waiting for a request, a lower level of coverage is active.

As of March 1, 2026, Liberty Mutual handles Uber's commercial insurance coverage in the United States, replacing Farmers Insurance. The same three levels of coverage still apply, so the protection for riders has not changed.

How does Uber make money?

Uber takes a service fee from each ride fare. When you pay for a trip, part of that payment goes to Uber to run the app and provide support. The rest goes to the driver.

What is Uber Share?

Uber Share (which used to be called Uber POOL) lets you split a ride with other people going the same way. It is often the cheapest option, especially in budget-friendly cities.

You can now schedule an Uber Share ride ahead of time in many US cities, including New York City, Los Angeles, Chicago, San Francisco, Las Vegas, Boston, Washington DC, Dallas, Phoenix, Philadelphia, Austin, and more. Scheduled Share rides lock in your price up front, so surge pricing will not change what you pay.

Uber also introduced Route Share, a service with fixed routes and stops that runs during weekday commute hours (6 to 10 AM and 4 to 8 PM) in seven US cities. Route Share costs about half the price of a regular UberX ride.

What are the different ride types?

Uber has several ride options. Here are some of the most common:

Where is Uber not available?

Uber operates in roughly 70 countries and more than 15,000 cities worldwide. However, some places have laws that limit or ban it. You can use our Uber availability checker to see if your city is covered. You can also look at the full list of Uber cities.

What if I lost something in an Uber?

If you leave an item in your Uber, the best way to get it back is through the app. Go to "Your Trips," select the ride, and tap "Find lost item." You can then message or call your driver directly to arrange a return. A small fee may apply if the driver returns the item.