Are you wondering if you can take Uber with your kids? If so, what are the rules for parents to use Uber for kids in different states or cities like California, Orlando, etc? In this post, we’ll compile and answer all the questions about using an Uber car seat to transport your kid in living or traveling cities. Also, you need to consider what you can do for your kid’s safety if Uber does not provide an appropriate car seat for your kid. I hope it helps if you’re taking Uber car seats.
Key Takeaways
- Uber Car Seat is an additional service that charges extra $10 per request
- This service is only available in select cities, such as New York, California, Washington, Miami, and Orlando.
- Uber car seats are forward-facing only, not for small infants younger than 2 years old.
- The age, weight, and height requirements: at least 2 years old, 22 pounds and 31 inches, until 48 pounds or 52 inches.
What is the Uber Car Seat?
Uber Car Seat is a program offered by Uber that provides parents with the option to request a vehicle equipped with a forward-facing car seat for their child.
The program is designed to make it easier and more convenient for parents to travel with young children without worrying about bringing their own car seat or finding one at their destination.
However, not all Uber drivers provide a car seat. So you need to check this when booking a ride through the Uber app. Parents can try to select the “Car Seat” option to request a vehicle with a car seat. The car seat used in a Uber is a forward-facing car seat that is safe for kids with weight and age requirements. The Uber car seat is safe and meets federal safety standards and is installed in the vehicle by the driver.
However, the Uber Car Seat option is not available in all cities and is subject to availability. Move on reading to the next part on what cities or states are the Uber Car Seat option available. If the Uber Car Seat is not showing, it’s probably that this service is not available in the city where you’re now.
Uber Car Seat is not free. There will be a fee per ride. When the Car Seat option is selected, the fare for the ride will include a $10 surcharge to cover the cost of the car seat.
Once the ride arrives, the driver will assist with getting the car seat properly installed and secured in the vehicle. The parent is responsible for ensuring that their child is correctly secured in the car seat during the ride.
After the ride, the car seat is left in the vehicle for the next rider to use. Uber’s policy requires drivers to keep the car seat in good condition and properly cleaned after each use.
The Car Seat option is popular for parents traveling with young children because it provides an added level of convenience and safety. However, it’s important to note that Uber drivers are not required to have specialized training in installing car seats, and parents should always inspect the car seat installation to ensure that it is correctly secured before beginning their ride.
Overall, the Uber Car Seat program is a helpful option for parents who want to make traveling with young children more convenient and safe. However, it’s essential to carefully consider the limitations and potential drawbacks of the program before relying on it as the sole means of transportation.
What are Uber car seat rules?
As a bonus service, Uber Car Seat is super convenient and friendly for parents who travel with kids. However, there are some has several vital rules that parents must follow to use the program.
Age and Size Restrictions
According to Uber, the provided car seat is a forward-facing only car seat that is designed for children who meet below age, weight, and height requirements:
- At least 2 years old
- Weigh between 22 and 48 pounds
- Between 31 and 52 inches tall
Children not meeting these requirements are not eligible to use the Car Seat option. If you’re interested in exploring more details on the reason why Uber Car Seat has this age and size limit, move to the next section.
Additional Cost
As mentioned above, it’s not free to use the Uber Car Seat. You’ll need to pay an extra $10 for every request using the car seat service. This fee covers the cost of the car seat and the driver’s time to install it properly. Considering it’s an additional service, the fee is not high.
Limited Availability
The Uber Car Seat service is only available in select large cities like New York and Washington, so it may not be an option for everyone. Even in cities where it is available, the program may not be available at all times, depending on demand. Check on Where Is Uber Car Seat Available?
Requesting the Car Seat Option
When booking a ride through the Uber app, parents must select the “Car Seat” option to request a vehicle with a car seat. If this option is not selected, the driver will not be equipped with a car seat. Make sure to check this before using a Uber if you don’t bring a child car seat. Look for other ride-sharing services to check if they provide additional car seats or not. Move to the next part on how to request an Uber with a car seat.
Responsibility for Child's Safety
The parent and caregiver are responsible for ensuring their child is correctly secured in the car seat during the ride. The driver is in charge of properly installing and securing the car seat in the vehicle, but it is ultimately the parent’s responsibility to ensure that their child is properly secured.
Inspection of Car Seat Installation
As it’s parents’ responsibility to ensure their kids’ safety in the Uber Car Seat, they should always inspect the car seat installation to ensure it is appropriately secured before beginning their ride. If the car seat is not properly installed, the parent should not use the Car Seat option and should request a different vehicle or transportation option.
Cleaning of Car Seat
After the ride is complete, the car seat is left in the vehicle for the next rider to use. Uber’s policy requires drivers to keep the car seat in good condition and properly cleaned after each use. Explore more next on what are the Uber car seat policy for drivers.
Overall, the Uber Car Seat program is designed to make traveling with young children more convenient and safe. However, parents should carefully consider the program’s rules and limitations before using it as their sole means of transportation. By following the rules and ensuring that the car seat is properly installed and secured, parents can help ensure their child’s safety during the ride.
Can Uber take kids?
Yes, of course, Uber allows children to ride in their vehicles, but there are some important rules and guidelines that parents should be aware of before using the service with their kids.
According to Uber’s policy, there is no minimum age requirement for passengers, so children can ride in an Uber as long as they are accompanied by an adult. However, there is no guarantee that a driver will be equipped with a car seat, so parents should bring their own car seat if they plan to use one for their child. If not, booking a vehicle with the Uber Car Seat service is also a good idea.
Uber also recommends that children who are too young to ride without a car seat be secured in one that meets federal safety standards. If a parent requests an Uber Car Seat vehicle, the car seat will be provided and installed by the driver.
Parents should also keep in mind that drivers are independent contractors and are not required to assist with loading or unloading children, so parents may need to help their children into and out of the vehicle. Additionally, the drivers are not as skilled as parents to install a car seat, parents should double-check if the car seat is installed correctly to ensure that their child is properly secured in the vehicle and that they follow all applicable safety guidelines.
Overall, Uber can be a convenient option for parents traveling with children, but it is important to carefully consider the rules and guidelines before using the service. By following these guidelines and ensuring that their child is properly secured and well-behaved during the ride, parents can help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.
Can You Ride With an Infant in an Uber?
Yes, you can ride with an infant in an Uber. As mentioned earlier, Uber does not have age limitations for a child to take Uber, but there are some important guidelines to keep in mind to ensure the safety of the child.
First, it is important to note that Uber does not usually provide car seats, so parents will need to bring their own car seats to use in the vehicle. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), infants should ride in a rear-facing car seat in the back seat of the vehicle until they are at least two years old or until they reach the highest weight or height allowed by the car seat manufacturer. Parents should ensure that the car seat is properly installed and secured in the vehicle before beginning the ride.
Uber does provide a car seat option, but it’s a forward-facing car seat for big toddlers who are at least 2 years old, while there are not all Uber drivers will provide this option.
It is also recommended that parents sit in the back seat of the vehicle with their infant, as this can help ensure that they are properly secured in the car seat and can provide additional support and comfort during the ride.
Additionally, parents should ensure that the driver is aware that they will be traveling with an infant and that they have a car seat with them. Some drivers may not be comfortable with transporting an infant without a car seat, so it is important to call the drivers to communicate this information before the ride begins.
Parents should also consider the weather and dress their infant appropriately for the conditions, as the vehicle may not have the same climate control as a personal vehicle.
Can You Ride With Small Children in an Uber?
Yes, you can ride with small children in an Uber as long as you follow certain guidelines to ensure their safety during the ride.
First and foremost, Uber does not provide car seats, so parents or caregivers must bring their own car seats to use in the vehicle. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that children should be secured in a car seat or booster seat until they are at least 4 feet 9 inches tall, which typically occurs between the ages of 8 and 12 years old. Parents should ensure that the car seat or booster seat is properly installed and secured in the vehicle before beginning the ride.
It is also recommended that parents or caregivers sit in the back seat of the vehicle with small children, as this can help ensure that they are properly secured in the car seat or booster seat and can provide additional support and comfort during the ride.
Parents or caregivers should also let the driver know that they will be traveling with small children and that they have car seats or booster seats with them.
Do You Need a Car Seat in an Uber?
If you consider Uber as one type of taxi, then the laws for taxis apply to Uber as well – taxis are usually exempt from the car seat laws in most states or cities in the US.
However, the kid’s safety is always the top priority for parents, no matter in their cars or taking Uber or taxis, or airplanes.
According to Uber’s policy, there is no minimum age requirement for passengers, so children can ride in an Uber as long as they are accompanied by an adult. Whether taking a car seat or not, it’s dependable on your plans and family’s needs.
If you want to use a car seat for your kid in an Uber, you probably have two options. The first is to use the Uber car seat service – it has limitations; the other is to bring your own car seats – it’s not that convenient (after all, you’ll need to go everywhere taking the car seat along with you).
Uber car seat program is only available in select cities. And only a few Uber drivers provide the car seat service. You can book a ride with the Uber car seat via the app. It’s important to note that there will be an additional cost.
If the Uber car seat is not selectable in your city, you’d better bring your own car seat to use in the vehicle if your child requires one.
In general, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that children should ride in a rear-facing car seat in the back seat of the vehicle until they are at least two years old. After that, children should ride in a forward-facing car seat with a harness until they reach the highest weight or height allowed by the car seat manufacturer. Then switch to a booster seat once children outgrow their 5-point harness car seat.
Is Uber Car Seat Required?
Whether or not an Uber car seat is required depends on the age and size of the child. Uber does not require car seats for all passengers, but it is the responsibility of the parent or caregiver to provide and properly install a car seat for their child if they require one.
In general, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that kids be in a car seat for optimal protection in family vehicles, taxis, airplanes, and Uber.
However, the car seat, including Uber Car Seat, is not a requirement.
According to Uber, if the parents accompany the child to ride in an Uber, there is no minimum age or weight requirement. If a child requires a car seat or booster seat, parents are responsible to decide and bringing their own car seat or booster seat to use in the Uber vehicle.
A few Uber drivers in select cities, like New York, California, Orlando, and Miami provide a car seat option. If you request an Uber Car Seat vehicle, the car seat will be provided and installed by the driver at an additional cost. However, it’s important to note that the Uber car seat is a forward-facing car seat for big toddlers at least 2 years of age. If you’re taking an infant in an Uber, it’s better to have your own infant car seat installed in the Uber vehicle.
What Size Car Seats Does Uber Have?
Uber does not provide car seats directly, but if a parent or caregiver requests an Uber Car Seat vehicle, the driver will provide a car seat from IMMI Go.
The IMMI Go car seat provided in an Uber is not suitable for kids of all ages or sizes. It has age, weight, and height requirements, just like all other car seats.
In general, Uber Car Seat vehicles are equipped with car seats designed for kids
- 2 years old and
- 22 pounds and
- 31 inches tall
before they reach the following limits:
- 48 pounds or
- 52 inches or
If you’re planning to bring your own car seat, note that Uber Car Seat vehicles are not designed to accommodate all types of car seats. Plus, the driver may not be able to install it properly due to the design of the vehicle’s seat belts or the car seat itself. The drivers are trained by the IMMI Go car seat mostly. Uber has cooperated with Safe Kid Worldwide to provide training to drivers.
Therefore, it is recommended to request an Uber Car Seat vehicle if a car seat is needed to ensure proper installation and safety for the child. Or you’d better install your own car seat by yourself.
Are Uber Car Seats Safe?
IMMI is the cooperator to provide the car seat for Uber. The IMMI Go is very lightweight (only 10 pounds), easy to use, and versatile for children of different ages.
Also, it is safe to use, because it meets Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 213 and offers the necessary protection for safety-minded parents.
Uber Car Seats can be safe for children if they are properly installed and used according to the manufacturer’s instructions. However, it is important to note that the safety of the car seat also depends on the condition of the car seat, its history of use, and whether it has been involved in a crash or has any defects.
In addition, Uber requires its drivers to complete a child car seat training program to ensure they can properly install and use the car seats.
However, parents or caregivers need to ensure that the car seat is properly installed in the vehicle and that the child is secured according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Parents or caregivers should also inspect the car seat for any defects or signs of wear and tear before using it.
How Much Does Uber Car Seat Cost?
In addition to the regular Uber fare, there is typically an additional fee for requesting an Uber Car Seat vehicle that includes the cost of the car seat and installation.
Requesting an Uber ride with the car seat costs $10 per ride.
As we mentioned earlier, Uber Car Seat vehicles are only available in select cities, so it is important to check availability before making a reservation.
It is also important to note that the cost of an Uber Car Seat can be higher during peak hours or times of high demand. Also, a cancellation fee may apply if a ride is canceled after the Uber Car Seat has been requested.
Where Is Uber Car Seat Available?
Uber Car Seat is only available in select cities in the United States. The availability of the service may also vary depending on the time of day and the demand for rides.
As of my knowledge cutoff of April 2023, the following cities in the United States offered Uber Car Seat:
- New York City, NY
- Philadelphia, PA
- Washington, DC
- Orlando, FL
- Miami, FL
The availability of Uber Car Seat may change over time, and new cities may be added to the list. Therefore, it is recommended to check Uber’s website or mobile app for the latest information on the availability of Uber Car Seat in your area.
It is also worth noting that even if Uber Car Seat is not available in a specific city, parents or caregivers can still request a regular Uber ride and bring their own car seat for the child. However, they will need to ensure that the car seat is properly installed and meets the appropriate safety standards.
How to request an Uber with a car seat
To request an Uber with a car seat, follow these steps:
- Open the Uber app on your mobile device.
- Enter your destination in the “Where to?” box.
- Tap on the “UberX” or “UberXL” option at the bottom of the screen.
- Swipe through the available vehicle options until you see the “Car Seat” option.
- Tap on the “Car Seat” option to select it.
- Choose the number of car seats you need (up to two per ride).
- Request your ride as you would normally.
Wait for your driver to arrive with the car seat installed and ready to use.
It is important to note that Uber Car Seat is only available in select cities, and the availability of the service may also vary depending on the time of day and the demand for rides. It is recommended to check Uber’s website or mobile app for the latest information on the availability of Uber Car Seat in your area before requesting a ride.
Additionally, it is important to ensure that you have the appropriate car seat for your child’s age, height, and weight, as well as to inspect the car seat for any defects or signs of wear and tear before using it. By taking these steps, parents or caregivers can help ensure the safety and comfort of their child during the ride.
Uber car seat policy for drivers
Uber Car Seat is a specialized service offered by Uber to provide safe and convenient transportation for families with young children. If you are an Uber driver who wants to provide Uber Car Seat rides, it is important to understand the Uber Car Seat policy for drivers.
- To be eligible to provide Uber Car Seat rides, drivers must meet the following requirements:
- Hold a valid driver’s license and have at least one year of driving experience.
- Be at least 21 years old.
- Pass a background check and vehicle inspection.
- Have a vehicle that is capable of accommodating a car seat, with a minimum of four passenger seats and four door handles.
In addition to these requirements, drivers who want to provide Uber Car Seat rides must also have an appropriate car seat for the child’s age, height, and weight, and must install it according to the manufacturer’s instructions and any applicable laws and regulations.
When providing Uber Car Seat rides, drivers must also adhere to the following guidelines:
Drivers must have a car seat available for the child at the time of the ride and must install it properly before the ride begins.
Drivers must ensure that the car seat is appropriate for the child’s age, height, and weight, and is in good condition with no defects or signs of wear and tear.
Drivers must not charge extra for providing an Uber Car Seat ride, beyond the regular Uber fare and any additional fees charged by Uber for the service.
Drivers must follow all applicable laws and regulations related to child passenger safety and car seat use and must comply with any additional requirements or guidelines set forth by Uber.
By following these guidelines, Uber drivers can help ensure the safety and comfort of their passengers and can provide a valuable service to families with young children who need safe and convenient transportation options.
What are the best car seat to use in an Uber
When it comes to using your own car seat in an Uber, there are a few key factors to consider to ensure that you choose the best option:
Size and compatibility
Choose a car seat that is compatible with a wide range of vehicle models and sizes. It should also fit in the Uber vehicle comfortably without taking up too much space.
Portability
Consider choosing a car seat that is easy to carry and transport, especially if you plan on using it frequently with Uber. Look for a lightweight and compact model that is easy to install and uninstall quickly.
Safety and durability
Choose a car seat that meets the latest safety standards and regulations for child passenger safety, and that is designed to last for several years. Look for a car seat with high-quality materials and construction, as well as easy-to-use safety features.
Ease of installation
Choose a car seat that is easy to install and uninstall in the Uber vehicle, without requiring any special tools or expertise. Look for a car seat with a clear and concise instruction manual, as well as simple and intuitive installation procedures.
Based on above guidelines, here are some popular car seat options that are well-suited for use in an Uber.
Doona Infant Car Seat Stroller
Key Features
- Weight Range: 4-35 lbs.
- Height Limit: 32 inches
- Lifespan: 6 years
- Type: Infant
- Stage: 1st
- Suitable for: Birth to 1 year old
The Good
- Combine a car seat and stroller
- Easy in and out
- Support installation without a car seat base
- Smooth transition between car seat and stroller
- Compact size design for storage and carrying
- Friendly and portable to take for air travel
- The handle can be used as an anti-rebound bar
- 2 years manufacturer's warranty
The Bad
- Short handle not friendly for tall people
- A little expensive
- Not include undercarriage basket for storage
- A bit heavy
$550
Britax Marathon - 18.5"
Key Features
- Weight range (lb): 5-40 (RF): 20-65 (FF)
- Height limits: ~40" (RF); ~49” (FF)
- Stage: 1st, 2nd
- Lifespan: 10 years
The Good
- 40-inch high rear-facing height limit
- ClickTight for easier seat belt installation
- V-shaped tether for stability
- CoolFlow high performance fabric
- 18.5-inch narrow width to fit 3 across in large cars
The Bad
- Pricey
- Heavy
$329.99
This car seat is designed for infants and toddlers, and can be installed both rear-facing and forward-facing. It features an easy-to-use ClickTight installation system, as well as a range of safety features like a steel frame, side-impact protection, and an adjustable headrest.
Evenflo Tribute 5 - 9.29 lbs
Key Features
- Weight range (lb): 5-40 (RF): 22-65 (FF)
- Height limits: ~43" (RF); ~49” (FF)
- Stage: 1st, 2nd
- Lifespan: 8 years
The Good
- Super budget price
- Fits 3 across in the back seat of most vehicles
- Lightweight and portable design
- Made in USA
The Bad
- Less headrest and recline
- Lack advanced additional features
$79.99
This budget-friendly car seat is designed for infants and toddlers, and can be installed rear-facing or forward-facing. It is lightweight and easy to carry, making it a good option for frequent Uber rides.
Graco SlimFit3 LX - 100 lbs
Key Features
- Weight range (lb): 5-40 (RF): 22-65 (FF); 40-100 (Booster)
- Height limits: ~49" (RF&FF); ~57” (Booster)
- Stage: 1st, 2nd, 3rd
- Lifespan: 10 years
The Good
- Slim design to fit 3 across
- Going through three car seat stages
- Improved breathable mesh AirFlow materials
- Rapid Remove pad for easy taking off to clean
- 10 years of lifespan
The Bad
- Not foldable
$279.99
This versatile car seat can be used for infants, toddlers, and older children, and can be installed rear-facing or forward-facing depending on the child’s age and size. It features a compact and lightweight design, as well as easy-to-use safety features like a one-hand adjustable harness and headrest.
FAQs on Uber Car Seat
Where to find the car seat option on Uber app?
It’s easy to find the Uber Car Seat. Open your Uber app. Request ‘CAR SEAT,’ located above the uberX option. Ride with your child safely buckled up in a car seat. Or take your own car seat for best fit to your kid.
Can I use Uber for my child?
Yes, of course, with the accompany of an adult.
Kids can’t use Uber alone. But if you’re a parent and planning to take Uber with a kid, it’s no problem.
Why don't i see the car seat option on Uber?
Uber Car Seat provide great convenience for parents on the go. You can easily request the Uber car seat with following steps:
- Open your Uber app.
- Set your pickup and dropoff location in the app.
- Find the Car Seat option. Scroll through the list of available vehicle types and select Car Seat.
- Request. A $10 car seat surcharge will be applied to your total price.
If you can’t see the car seat option, it’s probable that the Uber Car Seat service is not available in your city. Check here to view where is this program available.