Uber has become a daily necessity for millions—over 118 million active users worldwide, to be exact. It’s quick, convenient, and, most of the time, stress-free. But how smooth your ride goes doesn’t just depend on your driver; it’s also about how you behave as a passenger. Your actions can make or break the experience, not just for yourself but for your driver, too.
Unfortunately, not every rider gets it right. Bad passenger behavior—like leaving a mess, making unreasonable demands, or being too personal—can turn what should be a simple ride into an uncomfortable ordeal. With Uber ratings going both ways, knowing what’s expected of you is essential. To help you keep your rating sky-high and avoid any awkward post-ride surprises, here are 15 things you should never do in an Uber.
1. Don’t Ask for Off-App Rides
We know—you’re trying to save a few bucks. But asking your driver for an off-the-books ride? Not a good look. It’s against Uber’s policies, and drivers depend on the app for safety. Plus, let’s be real—it leaves both of you unprotected if something goes wrong. Stick to the app; it’s there for a reason. 89.68M drivers have said they feel uncomfortable with these requests.
2. Don’t Eat Smelly or Messy Food
Hungry? Sure, but your driver doesn’t want to smell your garlic fries for the next three rides. A quick snack is fine, but keep the food choices clean and odor-free. Spills happen, and nobody wants a “cleaning fee” surprise. Bottom line: If it smells or spills, save it for later. 64.9M drivers listed this as one of their top pet peeves.
3. Avoid Slamming the Door
Sure, you’re excited to get to your destination, but that doesn’t mean the car door needs to be slammed like you’re in an action movie. 48% of drivers said repeated door slamming is annoying and can even cause damage over time. Close it gently—you wouldn’t want someone slamming your car door, would you?
4. Don’t Try to Dictate the Route
Got a preferred route? Let your driver know before you start moving. Drivers are trained to use GPS to find the fastest way to get there. Drivers prefer to rely on their GPS and trust me, they know how to avoid traffic better than your backseat driving does.
5. Don’t Make Excessive or Unnecessary Stops
Running a quick errand? One stop is cool, but making multiple detours on an Uber ride is pushing it. Drivers have mentioned that riders asking for several stops can waste a lot of time and lower their earnings. Keep the stops short, or book separate trips if you need to make more than one.
6. Don’t Get Too Personal
Friendly chat? Sure! But avoid asking your driver about their deepest thoughts on politics or their life story. Keep it casual. Drivers say they’re okay with light conversation but dislike it when things get too personal or awkward. If you’re unsure whether it’s appropriate, it probably isn’t.
7. Don’t Forget to Rate and Tip
Your driver’s rating matters. A lot. After each ride, take 10 seconds to leave a rating and add a tip if the service was great. 97% of drivers check their ratings regularly, and tips can make a big difference in their income. Be a good passenger and show your appreciation.
8. Don’t Show Up with Extra Passengers
If you ordered a ride for one, don’t surprise your driver by showing up with three friends in tow. Uber vehicles are assigned based on the number of riders you selected, and the driver isn’t obligated to accommodate unexpected guests. 30% of Uber disputes are caused by passengers bringing extra people.
9. Don’t Act Entitled
Here’s the thing: Your Uber driver is offering you a service, but that doesn’t mean you get to treat them like a personal chauffeur. In a 2021 survey, drivers said that rude or demanding passengers are one of their biggest frustrations. Respect goes both ways, so act like a decent human being.
10. Don’t Leave Trash Behind
This one should be common sense, but let’s reiterate: don’t leave your trash in someone else’s car. One in five drivers has reported dealing with food wrappers, drink containers, or worse. Don’t be that passenger. Always check the seat before you leave.
11. Avoid Being Loud or Disruptive
Loud music, shouting, or party vibes might seem fun for you, but it’s just a distraction for the driver. 60% of drivers say loud or rowdy behavior makes it harder to focus on the road. Keep things chill and save the loud fun for when you’re not in someone else’s car.
12. Don’t Use the Car as Your Vanity
Yes, it’s tempting to fix your hair, apply lipstick, or spritz some perfume in the backseat, but Uber cars aren’t your beauty salon. Drivers have shared that passengers leave traces of makeup or sprays behind. It’s best to wait until you get out of the car for touch-ups.
13. Don’t Forget to Confirm Your Ride
Hopping into the wrong Uber happens more often than you think. In fact, 80% of ride mix-ups occur because passengers don’t double-check the car’s make, model, or license plate. Always confirm before you get in to avoid awkward and potentially unsafe situations.
14. Avoid Asking for Illegal Requests
Asking your driver to speed, run a red light, or do anything illegal? That’s not just rude—it’s reckless. Over 90% of drivers have been asked to break traffic laws, and it’s an immediate no. Don’t risk it; it’s not worth anyone’s safety.
15. Don’t Leave Without Saying Thanks
A simple “thank you” can go a long way. 92% of drivers say they appreciate passengers who express gratitude at the end of a ride. It’s polite, quick, and leaves a good impression. Plus, it doesn’t cost you anything to be kind.
Final Thoughts
Riding in an Uber should be as smooth as your destination plans. By avoiding these 15-passenger pitfalls, you’ll score a five-star rating and make your driver’s day much easier.
With nearly 90 million drivers globally reporting uncomfortable requests like off-app rides, over 65 million frustrated by route suggestions, and over 44 million annoyed by loud behavior, it’s clear these actions can add up.
Remember, a little courtesy goes a long way—so sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride. Who knows? Your next Uber trip might just be your best one yet!
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