Tipping is not mandatory, but it is a standard practice and a significant part of driver earnings in 2026. In the United States and many Western markets, the Uber app prompts riders to add a tip—usually 15%, 18%, or 20%—after the trip is completed. Statistics from 2026 show that while roughly 60% of riders rarely tip, those who do often contribute up to 30% of a driver's gross income. Drivers receive 100% of the tip amount, as Uber does not take a service fee from gratuities. In regions where tipping is less culturally ingrained, such as parts of Europe or East Asia, it remains less frequent, but the app still provides the option. Tipping is especially appreciated during bad weather, late-night hours, or when the driver helps with heavy luggage. Interestingly, "tip baiting"—where a customer enters a high tip to get a ride accepted quickly and then removes it—has become a noted issue, though Uber has introduced features to protect drivers from frequent offenders.