How to order an Uber taxi with the app

Ordering an Uber: the complete guide to taxis via the app

Uber has completely changed the way we order taxis. No more calling taxi dispatch centers, no more waiting on the street with your hand in the air. With the Uber app, you order a taxi within seconds that picks you up exactly where you are. In this detailed guide, we explain step by step how to use Uber in the Netherlands.

What is Uber and how does it work?

Uber is an international platform that connects travelers with drivers. In the app, you can request a ride and immediately see which drivers are nearby. You see in advance what the ride will cost, can follow the driver on the map, and pay automatically through the app. No hassle with cash or paying by card afterward.

In the Netherlands, Uber operates in several cities, including Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague, Utrecht and Eindhoven. Availability can vary by region, but in the big cities you'll almost always find drivers nearby.

Downloading the Uber app and creating an account

To use Uber, you first need to download the app. It's available for free for both iPhone and Android devices. Go to the App Store or Google Play Store and search for 'Uber'. Download the official app and open it to create your account.

Creating an account step by step

To create your account, you need a few details. First, your phone number, because Uber sends a verification code by text message. Next, you enter your email address and choose a password. Finally, you add a payment method. This can be a credit card, debit card or PayPal. In the Netherlands, you can also pay cash for some rides, but paying digitally is the most common.

Ordering your first Uber ride

Ordering an Uber is very easy. Open the app and you'll immediately see a map with your current location. Tap the 'Where to?' field and enter your destination. You can type an address, select a location on the map, or choose from your recent destinations.

Comparing ride options

After you've entered your destination, Uber shows different ride options. The most common are:

• UberX: The standard option with room for up to 4 passengers. This is usually the most affordable choice.
• Uber Comfort: Slightly roomier cars with extra legroom and experienced drivers.
• Uber Green: Electric or hybrid vehicles for the environmentally conscious traveler.
• Uber XL: Larger vehicles for groups of up to 6 people or when you have a lot of luggage.

For each option, you see the estimated price and wait time. Prices can vary depending on how busy it is, the weather and demand. This is called dynamic pricing. The app always shows you in advance what you'll pay, so you won't face any surprises.

During and after the ride

As soon as you've confirmed a ride, you can follow the driver on the map. You see exactly where the car is and how long it will take to reach you. You also see the driver's name, a photo, the license plate, and the make and model of the car. This makes it easy to recognize your Uber.

Contacting your driver

In the app, you can send messages to your driver or call if needed. This is handy if, for example, you're at a busy location and want to indicate exactly where you are. Your phone number stays private because Uber uses a masked number.

After the ride

When you've arrived, payment is handled automatically through your saved payment method. You receive a digital receipt by email with all the ride details. In the app, you can rate the driver with stars and optionally leave a tip. This helps other travelers make their choice and rewards good drivers.

Uber features you should know

The Uber app has several handy features that make your trip even easier:

Sharing your ride with friends

With the 'Share my trip' feature, you can share your real-time location with friends or family. They can then see exactly where you are and when you expect to arrive. This is ideal for safety or to let someone know when you'll be there.

Saving favorite locations

Save frequently used addresses such as your home, work or the train station. That way, you don't have to type them in every time and you can order a ride even faster.

Scheduling rides in advance

Need to get to the airport early tomorrow morning? With Uber, you can schedule rides up to 30 days in advance. You indicate when you want to be picked up and the app makes sure a driver is ready on time.

Ordering an Uber for someone else

You can also order an Uber for someone else. Simply enter the passenger's phone number and they receive all the ride information. Handy if, for example, you're arranging a ride for your parents or children.

Tips for a pleasant Uber experience

To make your Uber rides go as smoothly as possible, we have a few practical tips:

Check your pickup location: GPS isn't always 100% accurate. Check that the pin on the map is really in the right spot before you confirm.

Be ready when the driver arrives: Drivers may leave after a certain waiting time, and you can still be charged a fee.

Communicate clearly: If you're at a large location such as a train station or shopping mall, specify exactly where you're standing.

Check the license plate: Never get into a car without first checking that the license plate matches what the app shows.

Costs and paying with Uber

The price of an Uber ride depends on several factors: the distance, the estimated travel time, the type of Uber you choose, and demand at that moment. The app always shows a price estimate before you book. When it's busy, prices can be higher because of the surge pricing system.

Payment is handled automatically through the app. You can choose from credit card, debit card, PayPal or Uber Cash. After every ride, you receive a detailed overview by email. Any tolls or extra stops are charged separately.

Safety with Uber

Uber takes safety seriously. All drivers are screened before they're allowed to start. In the app, you'll find a Safety Center with features such as sharing your ride, an emergency button, and the option to call 112 directly. All rides are also tracked via GPS.

As a passenger, you can give feedback after every ride. Drivers with poor ratings are eventually removed from the platform. This system ensures a safe and pleasant experience for everyone.

Conclusion

Uber makes ordering a taxi easier than ever. With the app, you have a driver on the way within a few taps. You know in advance what you'll pay, can follow the car, and pay automatically. Whether you need to get to the airport, want to get home after a night out, or simply don't feel like walking, Uber offers a flexible and reliable solution for all your transportation needs in the Netherlands.

Frequently asked questions

How do I order an Uber taxi?

Download the Uber app, create an account with your phone number and add a payment method. Open the app, enter your destination, choose a ride type and confirm. You immediately see the price and wait time.

How much does an Uber ride cost in the Netherlands?

The price depends on distance, travel time and how busy it is. You always see a price estimate in the app in advance. UberX is usually the most affordable option, while Comfort and XL are more expensive.

Can I pay cash with Uber?

In some cases paying cash is possible, but most rides are paid digitally by credit card, debit card or PayPal. Payment happens automatically after the ride.

Is Uber safe?

Yes, Uber screens all drivers and offers safety features such as GPS tracking, sharing your ride with friends, and an emergency button. After every ride, you can rate the driver.