You can message your Uber driver through the app before pickup and while you're in the ride
Uber's in-app messaging feature lets you send text messages to your driver without sharing your phone number. You can start a conversation as soon as a driver accepts your request, and the chat stays open until the trip ends. Messages appear in a dedicated chat window within the Uber app — you don't need a separate texting app or to know the driver's contact details.
The messaging system works on both iPhone and Android. Your messages are encrypted, and neither you nor the driver can see each other's actual phone numbers through the chat. Once the trip is complete, the conversation thread closes and you can no longer message that driver through Uber.
Key Takeaways
- Open the chat tab in your active trip screen to message your driver at any time before or during the ride.
- You can send text messages, emojis, and preset quick messages like "I'm running 5 minutes late" without typing.
- Your phone number stays private — the driver sees only your name and profile picture in the chat.
- Messaging works best for straightforward logistics like "I'm at the north entrance" or "Please honk when you arrive."
- If you need to reach the driver after the trip ends, you'll need to contact Uber support instead.
How to open the chat during your trip
Once a driver has accepted your request, open the Uber app and look at your active trip screen. You'll see a chat icon — usually a speech bubble or message symbol — near the top or bottom of the screen depending on your app version. Tap it to open the messaging window.
The chat box appears as a text field at the bottom of the screen. Type your message and tap send. Your driver will see it pop up on their phone in real time. If the driver is using the Uber app on a phone mount or dashboard, they may see a notification but won't read it until they can safely glance at their screen.
Using quick messages to save time
Uber includes preset quick messages you can send without typing. These appear as buttons or a menu in the chat window and include common phrases like "I'm on my way," "I'm running late," "I'm at the north entrance," and "Please honk when you arrive." Tap any quick message to send it when ready.
Quick messages are especially useful if you're moving around or your hands are full. They also help drivers who may be distracted by navigation or traffic — a preset message is faster to read than a longer typed one. You can still type a custom message if none of the quick options fit your situation.
What to message about and what to avoid
Use the chat for location details, timing updates, and straightforward requests. Good examples: "I'm at the main entrance," "Running 5 minutes behind," "Please park in the loading zone," or "I have a large suitcase." These messages help the driver find you or prepare for your luggage.
Avoid using chat for complaints, requests to change the route, or anything that requires a back-and-forth conversation. If you need to report a safety issue, lost item, or serious problem, contact Uber support through the app instead — support staff can actually resolve those issues, whereas your driver may not have the authority to help. Don't share personal information like your home address, workplace, or phone number in the chat.
Messaging before the driver arrives
You can message as soon as a driver accepts your request, even if they're still several minutes away. This is the best time to send details that help them find you, such as "I'm wearing a blue jacket" or "I'm in the parking lot near the coffee shop." Early messages give the driver time to read and prepare before they pull up.
If you're running late and haven't left yet, message the driver right away. Many drivers appreciate a heads-up so they can decide whether to wait or cancel. Some drivers may wait a few extra minutes if you've communicated, whereas a silent delay often leads to cancellation.
When messaging doesn't work or isn't available
In rare cases, the chat feature may not appear in your app. This usually happens if your app version is outdated or if there's a temporary connection issue. Close the Uber app completely and reopen it. If the chat still doesn't show, update your app through the App Store or Google Play.
Some older versions of Uber or certain regions may have limited messaging features. If you can't find the chat option after updating, you can still reach your driver by calling them — a phone icon usually appears on the trip screen. Calling is also faster if you need an when ready response, such as if the driver is going the wrong direction.
After your trip ends
Once you rate your driver and the trip closes, the chat window disappears and you cannot send new messages through Uber. If you left something in the car or need to contact the driver about the ride, open the Uber app, go to your trip history, find that ride, and select "Contact Support." Uber support can reach the driver on your behalf or help you file a lost item report.
Do not ask for the driver's phone number in the chat or try to continue the conversation outside the app. Uber's policy protects both driver and passenger privacy by keeping contact within the platform.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the driver see my real phone number when I message?
No. Your phone number stays hidden. The driver sees only your first name, profile picture, and the messages you send. You also cannot see the driver's actual phone number in the chat — Uber keeps both numbers private and routes messages through their servers.
What if the driver doesn't respond to my message?
Drivers are not required to read or reply to messages while driving. If you need an urgent response, call the driver using the phone icon on the trip screen instead. A call is more likely to get when ready attention than a text message.
Can I message a driver after I've rated them?
No. The chat closes as soon as the trip ends and you submit your rating. If you need to reach the driver after that, contact Uber support through the app and describe your situation — support can relay a message or help with lost items.
Does the driver get notified when I start typing?
No. The driver only sees your message after you send it. They don't see a "typing" indicator or know you're composing a message until it arrives.
Can I use emojis in the chat?
Yes. You can send emojis along with text, though keep messages straightforward and clear. Emojis work best for quick reactions or to add tone, but they shouldn't replace the actual message content.