All Uber drivers are vetted to ensure that they have a driver's licence and pose no threat to passengers. They are also forced to periodically take a selfie before to accepting rides, to ensure that the account of a verified driver is not used by someone else.

In 2026, Uber is generally considered one of the safest ways for tourists to travel in South African cities like Cape Town, Johannesburg, and Durban, though it requires a high degree of personal awareness. Uber provides safety features that traditional taxis often lack, such as GPS tracking, the "Share My Ride" feature for friends and family, and an in-app emergency button linked directly to private security and local police. However, South Africa remains a "high-caution" destination due to prevalent violent crime. To stay safe, you should never wait for your Uber outside on the street; instead, wait inside your hotel or restaurant until the app notifies you that the driver has arrived. Always verify the vehicle's license plate and the driver's face against the app's information before getting in, and use the "Verify Your Ride" PIN code feature for extra security. Avoid using Ubers for long trips into unfamiliar "township" areas after dark, and be wary of "smash-and-grab" thefts by keeping your phone and valuables out of sight during the ride. When used with common-sense precautions, Uber remains the preferred and most reliable transit choice for the majority of international visitors.