Advancing trust and safety
We’re dedicated to building a platform based on trust between riders and drivers. To support this, we’re launching new rider verification measures in Canada designed to help everyone feel more safe and secure.
Building a trusted platform, together
Our rider verification process helps confirm that our users are who they say they are. We are committed to promoting mutual accountability, with the goal of making Uber a safe and trusted place to ride and drive.
How we verify
Our rider verification process involves cross-checking a rider’s account information provided during signup against third-party databases. In cases where we can’t validate the information attached to a rider's account, riders can choose to upload a government ID or other documentation along with a live selfie to help us finish verification.
Privacy is a priority
We securely store verification data and encrypt ID documents. Drivers will only see a rider’s first name, star rating, verified rider badge, and trip details.
A badge that builds trust
Verified riders will receive a blue badge in the Account section of the Uber app. This badge is shown to drivers when a verified rider requests a ride.
Frequently asked questions
- What does it mean when I’m “verified”?
Verification involves cross-checking the account information you gave at signup, like your name or phone number, against trusted third-party data.
If we can’t validate that information, you can choose to upload your government-issued ID, such as a driver's license, a passport, a national identity card, or other documentation. We may also ask for an optional live selfie.
This isn’t a guarantee of someone’s identity or good behaviour, but it can help us build trust and accountability on our platform.
- Why is Uber doing this?
This new verified rider badge builds off of our current user verification processes, helps deter fraudulent behaviour, and adds another layer of trust, safety, and peace of mind for drivers and all Uber platform users.
Drivers have consistently told us that they want this feature. Drivers also have their identities verified.
- Do I have to submit an ID and selfie to get a verified badge and use the Uber app?
Uber only prompts you to submit an ID and live selfie if we are unable to first verify your identity by comparing your personal information to trusted third-party databases.
If you decide not to provide an ID and live selfie, you won’t get a verified badge, but you’ll still be able to take rides with Uber.
However, if you set up a new rider account using an anonymous form of payment, such as prepaid payment card, or gift card, or there are other fraud or identity signals requiring additional verification, you may have to upload a government-issued photo ID, driver’s license, or passport, and submit a live selfie before you take a ride.
- Is there any other way I can get a verified badge?
Not right now, but we may add more ways in the future.
If you did not successfully receive a verified badge, and you believe the decision was incorrect, you can request a human review through Uber Support.
- If I’m not verified, how does this affect my Uber experience?
We believe this verification process can help promote safer and more comfortable interactions, help build trust, and help make the platform safer.
Because drivers will see a rider’s verified badge when choosing to accept a trip, not being verified may lead to longer ETAs and pickup times. Riders and drivers can still cancel a trip, in accordance with our Community Guidelines.
Some Uber Eats orders for regulated items, like alcohol orders, might also require a live selfie and ID document check at the checkout stage. If you choose not to go through that process, you might not be able to finish ordering the alcohol or other regulated item.
- Why am I being asked to submit a photo of my ID and a selfie?
If we can’t validate your account information based on existing info like your name and phone number, you can still get a verified badge. You’ll be prompted in the Uber app to submit a live selfie and your government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license, or passport.
- Will I be asked to verify my identity more than once?
Changes to your rider account, such as a new phone number, new email address, or a change to your name, could result in a rerun of the verification process.
- How does it work if I order a trip for a family member or friend?
If you’re ordering a trip for a friend or loved one, you can order it as a guest ride and input information about the person who’s actually taking the trip. If you have a verified rider badge and you order a trip for a friend or family member, your guest rider will not be considered verified, and we will not show a verified badge.
If you’re requesting a trip for a family member, consider creating a Family Profile
- How will I know if I’m verified?
You’ll receive email and in-app communications from us letting you know about this new verified rider badge. The badge will be shown in the Account section of your Uber app.
- What should I do if I have trouble getting verified?
If you have issues or think there’s been a mistake, please contact Uber Support.
- In what cities is rider verification live?
Rider verification is available in select cities across Canada.
- I have a teenager with a Teen Uber account. Can they get verified?
At this time, the verified badge is not available for Teen users in Canada.
- What information does Uber use to verify a rider’s identity?
We’ll compare a rider’s name and phone number from their Uber account against trusted data sources. If we cannot verify a rider’s identity by doing that, they’ll have the option to verify their identity by providing an ID document and live selfie.
- What are the trusted data sources Uber uses?
In Canada, Uber uses Prove as a service provider to assist with verifying a rider’s name and phone number. Prove compares this account information against its databases and returns the rider’s verification details back to Uber. Prove may not use or share rider account information for any purpose beyond providing verification services to Uber. Prove is also required to keep this information secure and retain it only for as long as necessary to perform its services.
You can find Prove’s Privacy Policy here.
- What does Uber do with my ID and selfie photos?
Using a trusted third-party service, we first verify that your photos are real, live, and unaltered. Then, we compare your selfie to the photo on your ID to make sure it’s the same person. Once we’ve verified your identity, you’ll receive a verified rider badge.
All personal data is safeguarded when stored and transmitted, including by using secure encryption.
- Does Uber use a third party to compare my selfie to my ID?
Yes, we may use a trusted, third-party vendor to compare your photos and verify your identity. The vendor isn’t allowed to use or share your data for any other reason. They also have to make sure your information is secure, and they can’t keep it for longer than necessary to perform their services. All biometric processing is performed by the vendor. Uber does not collect or receive any biometric identifiers.
As always, we take the security of your personal information seriously. Personal data is safeguarded when it’s sent and stored, including by using secure encryption.
The live selfie and ID document check is an optional process. Riders can still request rides if they do not go through it.
- Will drivers know that I’m verified?
Yes. Before accepting the trip, drivers will see a verified rider badge if you have a verified account and requested the ride for yourself. Drivers will continue to see the verified badge while on the way to pick you up.
All other trip and rider details currently visible to drivers remain the same: they’ll be able to see only your first name and verified rider badge along with your pickup and dropoff details. You can find out more about what drivers see about riders in Uber’s Privacy Center. , which is accessible via Account > Settings > Privacy in the Uber apps.
- Will drivers be able to filter for verified riders?
Currently, drivers can’t choose to only see requests from verified riders. Drivers can accept or reject any trip. However, drivers might be more likely to accept trips from verified riders.
- Will Uber provide my ID to law enforcement?
In accordance with our law enforcement guidelines, Uber will disclose account information to US law enforcement where required by legal process in accordance with the Electronic Communications Privacy Act (ECPA) and other legal authorities, or in an emergency situation as outlined in our guidelines.
- Can I request to have my ID and selfie photos deleted?
We delete the photo of your ID after 1 year and your selfie after 3 years, and/or upon your request to delete your Uber account, except where longer retention is required for legal reasons. At this time you cannot separately request for your ID or selfie photos to be deleted.
If we detect fraud or you’ve been associated with a safety incident, we may retain your data as long as necessary by applicable law and in a manner consistent with our Privacy Notice.
More about safety at Uber
Count on 24/7 support and emergency assistance. Share your trip with loved ones. Our focus is on safety so you can focus on the opportunity.
Millions of rides are requested daily. Every rider has access to safety features built into the app. And every ride has a Support team if you need them.
Our rider verification system is designed to improve trust and accountability on the Uber platform, but the verification badge does not represent a warranty or guarantee of someone’s identity, safety, or fitness to ride. You may still request rides on the Uber platform without the verified badge.
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