The popular e-hailing company has recently disabled its cash bookings in early morning hours, specifically between 2am and 6am. The Star Online, quoting a press release by Grab, said the decision was made for the safety of its drivers and passengers.

In 2026, you can book a Grab ride using the cash payment option at any time of the day or night, as long as there are drivers available in your area. Grab’s cash option is not restricted by the clock; however, its availability is determined by the driver's preference. When you book, the system matches you with drivers who are willing to accept cash payments. Late at night or in remote areas, some drivers may prefer "GrabPay" or credit cards for safety and convenience, which might slightly increase your wait time for a cash-accepting ride. For "Advance Bookings" (scheduled 75 minutes to 90 days in ahead), Grab typically requires a cashless payment method (credit card or e-wallet) to secure the ride. If you are hailing a ride for "now," the cash toggle is always available in the app’s payment menu, making it a reliable choice for travelers who prefer to use local currency during their stay in Southeast Asia.

In Singapore, you can book a Grab ride with cash 24/7, as long as you select the “Cash” payment option before confirming your booking.

Here’s what you need to know:

How to Book Grab with Cash:

1. Open the Grab app and enter your destination.
2. On the booking screen, look for the “Payment” section.
3. Tap on it and select “Cash” from the list of payment methods.
4. Choose your ride type (JustGrab, GrabCar, GrabTaxi, etc.) and confirm the booking.

Important Notes:

• Availability: Not all ride types may offer cash payment. For example, some premium services or during high-demand periods might be card-only. The app will show you only the available options when you select “Cash.”
• Driver Acceptance: Since drivers bear the risk of carrying change and handling cash, some may prefer card payments. However, if you’ve selected cash, the assigned driver is obligated to accept it.
• Exact Change: It’s highly recommended to have small bills or close to exact change. While drivers should carry change, it’s not always guaranteed, especially for large bills (like S$50 or S$100).
• GrabTaxi: If you book a GrabTaxi (a regular taxi booked through the app), cash payment is almost always the default and expected method.

Tip for Success:

To avoid any issues, simply ensure “Cash” is selected as your payment method before you book. The app will remember your last used preference.

Summary: You can book a Grab with cash at any time of day. Just select the cash option in the app before confirming your ride.