The most important Lyft etiquette rules. How to behave in a Lyft. Avoid any embarrassment and be a pleasant passenger.

rules for lyft riders

What Lyft etiquette is

Lyft etiquette is the set of rules to properly ride on a Lyft. It includes booking, tipping, and the appropriate behaviors.

If you are a user, follow Lyft etiquette to respect your driver and avoid any embarrassment.

If you are a driver, know the etiquette rules to properly manage your customer’s expectations.

General Lyft etiquette principles

Lyft is a ride-hailing service similar to taxis.

Lyft etiquette is based on two major underlying principles. 

  • Facilitate traffic.
  • Avoid behavior that can disrespect the driver or the passengers.

Most etiquette rules apply to any trip. However, circumstances may vary. Apply extra kindness on trips that can cause additional stress. 

  • Rush hour or traffic peak days, such as holidays.
  • Challenging weather.

Lyft etiquette rules

1) Etiquette to get in a Lyft 

Book a Lyft through the Lyft app. You cannot hail or call a Lyft.

Be punctual. Get ready a few minutes before.

Wait in an appropriate place. The Lyft driver must be able to stop without blocking traffic. Avoid waiting immediately near a traffic light or a crossroad. Instead, look for a spot where the driver can see you in advance and pull over the car. 

Greet the driver. If you have luggage, wait for the driver to open the trunk and put your luggage in. 

Once seated, fasten the seat belts. It is not polite to wait for the driver to ask.

A few years ago, Lyft drivers would greet the passengers with a fist bump. Nowadays, it is no longer common.

2) How to manage your belongings in a Lyft

In general, bulky items should go in the trunk. Wait for the Lyft driver to put them in. 

Bring in the car only small bags, backpacks, or purses.

You can ask for exceptions, but it is up to the Lyft driver to accept.

3) Lyft seating etiquette

Usually, the passengers should take the back seats. 

If you prefer to sit in the front seat, you can ask the driver. If you are in a party of 3 or 4, it is ok for one of you to sit in the front.

Keep your legs under control. Your legs should not occupy a space wider than your seat. Do not spread them. 

Never put your feet on the seat. 

4) How to dress in a Lyft 

Get in a Lyft dressed normally. Avoid borderline situations that may annoy the driver. Such as getting in a Lyft in a swimsuit after the beach, or covered in mud after a hike. 

Do not take your shoes off in the car.

5) Respect others & their personal space

Do not occupy another passenger’s personal space. Keep your arms, legs, and belongings in the space delimited by your seat. 

If you would like to open the window, ask the driver first. Similarly, ask the driver to turn the air conditioning or heating up or down.

Avoid bringing food or drinks on board. In any case, no alcoholic drinks. If you spill food or a drink, clean after yourself.

Limit noise. Listen to music or watch videos strictly with your headphones on. Be mindful of the content you watch. Do not watch videos that may disturb or offend the driver.

Speak with your Lyft driver if you wish. If you prefer to avoid conversation, give short but polite answers and look out of the window. The driver usually takes the cue.

Smoking or vaping is forbidden. 

6) Lyft etiquette for pets

The Lyft app has its terms and conditions for pets. Check them before booking a ride.

In general, service animals are always allowed. Other pets are allowed at the discretion of the driver.

7) Etiquette to get off a Lyft

When the Lyft is approaching your stop, start gathering your things. Do not leave any items or trash behind.

Greet the driver before getting out of the car. The Lyft app takes care of the rest. No further action is needed.

8) Lyft tipping etiquette 

You can tip your Lyft driver in cash or through the Lyft app. A tip between 10% and 20% is customary.

Lyft etiquette: the worst mistakes

Avoid the worst Lyft etiquette mistakes. 

  • 8/10. Putting your feet on the seat.
  • 7/10. Making your driver wait.
  • 7/10. Not fastening the seat belt.
  • 6/10. Eating or drinking on a Lyft.

Sources