You can use Uber without a smartphone through two official methods: the mobile website at m.uber.com or by calling Uber's phone booking line. These options let you request a ride using a basic phone, a computer, or a tablet, making it possible to use Uber without a smartphone even if you don't own one.
Method 1: Use Uber on a computer, tablet, or basic phone browser
Uber's official web flow works on any device with internet access, including older phones with browsing capabilities, tablets, laptops, and public desktop computers. Certain premium services like Uber Black or UberXL may only be available for booking through the app, not on a computer. To request a ride:
- Visit uber.com/go and enter your phone number to sign in. If you are new, create an account.
- Set your pickup location by allowing location access or entering it manually.
- Enter your destination.
- Select a ride option and confirm.
You can also access your account and request a ride directly on the mobile website at m.uber.com. This method requires no smartphone app, just a working internet connection and a web browser.
Method 2: Call 1-833-USE-UBER to book a ride by phone
In the United States, Uber provides a dedicated phone booking line at 1-833-USE-UBER (1-833-873-8237). This line operates daily from 5:00 AM to 1:00 AM Eastern Time and allows you to request a ride on demand or in advance anywhere Uber operates in the U.S. You must call from a phone that can receive texts, as trip details and updates are sent via text message. When booking by phone, you need to provide your payment information (credit or debit card) to the representative during the call. The phone booking representative provides an estimated time of arrival for your driver and keeps you updated on ride progress.
In Australia, the "Call to Ride" line is 13-UBER (13 82 37), available daily from 5:00 AM to 8:00 PM local time. This service supports both on-demand rides and pre-bookings from one hour after the current time up to 30 days in advance. The team can also assist you in creating an account if you do not already have one. Trip details, including estimated fare, driver name and picture, car type, license plate number, and ETA, are sent by text.
What you need to set up an Uber account without the app
To use Uber without a smartphone, you must first have an Uber account. You can create one by visiting m.uber.com or uber.com/go on any internet-connected device. You will need to register your contact details and a payment method. If you do not already have an account, the phone booking service team in Australia can help you set one up during your call. For the U.S. phone line, you should create your account via the web beforehand, or the team can guide you through the process. Note that the phone booking service requires a text-enabled phone, so landlines are not supported. Uber will call a landline number with a verification code during account setup if you sign up with a landline. You can ask a friend or family member with a smartphone to receive ride updates on their device if you don't have a mobile device.
For those interested in creating accounts without a phone number, the web sign-up process at uber.com/go requires a phone number for verification, so a landline or a friend's number is necessary to complete registration.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a landline to book an Uber by phone?
No. Uber's U.S. phone booking line requires a phone that can receive texts, and the Australian line is documented as mobile-phone based. Landlines cannot receive the text messages needed for trip details and driver updates.
What devices work with the Uber website for requesting rides?
Uber's web version works on any device with internet access: a computer, tablet, older phone with browsing capabilities, or a public desktop computer. You do not need a smartphone.
Can a friend book an Uber ride for me using their smartphone?
If a friend uses their app, the ride will be under their account, not yours.
Do I need a data plan to use the Uber website on a basic phone?
Yes, you need internet access to visit m.uber.com. This can be through a Wi-Fi connection, mobile data, or a public computer with internet.
Is the phone booking line available outside the U.S. and Australia?
Uber's official help pages only document the U.S. line (1-833-USE-UBER) and the Australian line (13-UBER). Availability in other countries is not confirmed in the verified facts.
Can I pre-book a ride using the phone line?
Yes. In the U.S., you can request a ride on demand or in advance.
