Uber and Lyft are the two big rideshare apps: a driver uses their own car to take you where you want to go. You order, pay and tip in the app.
Download Uber or Lyft from the App Store or Google Play.
Sign up with your phone number. The app sends a code by text message. Type it in. A home-country number can work, but you need to receive the text.
Add a payment method. Most US and many foreign credit and debit cards work. Apple Pay and Google Pay also work. If your foreign card is declined, call your bank: it may block a new country.
Type where you are going. Check the pickup pin on the map.
Choose a ride type. The cheapest normal car is usually called UberX or Lyft Standard. Bigger cars (XL) fit 6 people. Shared rides cost less but stop for other riders. Some areas offer cars with child seats.
You see the price before you confirm. Prices go up when many people want rides at the same time.
Confirm. The app shows the driver's name, photo, car model, color and license plate.
Check the license plate, car and driver photo. All three must match.
Ask "Who are you here for?" A real driver knows your name from the app. Do not say your name first.
Use the app's share feature to send your live trip to a friend.
The app has an emergency button that can call 911.
Tipping is not required but is common. You tip in the app after the ride. Many people tip 15 to 20 percent.
You rate the driver from 1 to 5 stars. Drivers rate you too.
You can order a ride for later (for an early flight, for example). In Uber, tap Schedule or Later. A scheduled ride is not a promise: open the app early and check that a driver has accepted.
Airports have special pickup zones. The app asks for your terminal and door. Walk to the zone before the driver arrives. See the airport guide.
Getting into the wrong car. Many cars look alike at night. Always check the plate.
Paying the driver cash on the side. Keep all payment in the app so you have a record.
Leaving things in the car. Use Lost items in the app to contact the driver.
Ignoring the wait fee. Drivers wait only a few minutes for free, then a fee starts.