The proper etiquette (that nobody follows) is for the rider to identify themselves first, by saying “Uber for PaxName?” Followed by the driver saying “yes, I am DriverName.” The passenger has all the driver's info on the app: the car type, the license plate, a picture of the driver, and a driver name.

Before stepping into an Uber in 2026, the most critical safety phrase to use is asking the driver, "Who are you here for?" instead of volunteering your own name. This simple "reverse check" forces the driver to confirm your identity using the information provided on their app, ensuring you are entering the correct vehicle. You should also verbally verify the license plate by saying, "I just want to confirm the plate matches—is it [Plate Number]?" even if you have already looked at it. If you are riding with a companion, it is helpful to loudly mention, "I've shared my status with [Friend's Name]," as this informs the driver that your GPS coordinates are being monitored by a third party. If anything feels off, trust your intuition; you have the right to say, "I've changed my mind, I'm not ready yet," and close the door. Always wait until the car has come to a complete stop and you have matched the driver's face and car model to the photo in your app before initiating the conversation.