The most important Uber etiquette rules. How to behave in an Uber. Avoid any embarrassments. Be a pleasant passenger.

What Uber etiquette is

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

If you are a user, follow Uber 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 Uber etiquette principles

Uber is a ride-hailing service similar to taxis.

Uber 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.

Uber etiquette rules

1) Etiquette to get in a Uber 

Book a Uber through the Uber app. You cannot hail or call an Uber.

Be punctual. Get ready a few minutes before.

Wait in an appropriate place. The Uber 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, put your safety belts on. It is not polite to wait for the driver to ask.

2) How to manage your belongings in an Uber

In general, bulky items should go in the trunk. Wait for the Uber 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 Uber driver to accept.

3) Uber 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 an Uber 

Get in an Uber dressed normally. Avoid borderline situations that may annoy the driver. Such as getting in an Uber 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 Uber driver if you wish so. 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) Uber etiquette for pets

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

7) Etiquette to get off an Uber

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

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

8) Uber tipping etiquette 

You can tip your Uber driver in cash or through the Uber app.

Tipping etiquette largely varies by country. In the United States, a tip between 10% and 20% is customary. In Europe, it is often ok to tip a couple of Euros.

Uber etiquette: the worst mistakes

The Rude Index identifies and ranks negative behaviors. 

A high score (8-10) means that the behavior has the potential to trigger a conflict with others. A medium score (4-7) means that the behavior risks making you look inelegant and unsophisticated. More about the Rude Index and its methodology here.  

Avoid the worst Uber 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 Uber.

Sources

• In-app tips on Uber: uber.com