How to Request a Specific Uber Driver: A Comprehensive Guide
Booking an Uber ride can be a convenient way to get around, but sometimes we need to request a specific driver for specific reasons. Whether it’s a corporate event, a family outing, or a special occasion, knowing how to request a certain Uber driver can make all the difference. In this article, we’ll explore how to request a specific Uber driver and why it’s an essential tip for any Uber user.
Why Request a Specific Uber Driver?
Before we dive into the process of requesting a specific Uber driver, let’s discuss why it’s useful. Here are a few scenarios where having control over your Uber driver can be important:
- Safety concerns: If you’re traveling at night, picking up a friend, or going alone as a woman, you may feel uncomfortable with an unfamiliar driver. Asking for a specific driver can ensure someone you trust is behind the wheel.
- Corporate events: When traveling on business, you may need to transport colleagues, clients, or executives. Requesting a certain driver can ensure a professional and reliable driver greets your party.
- Convenience: If you have a repeating appointment or need a ride frequently, asking for the same driver ensures a familiar and friendly face shows up at your door.
- Pet or special equipment transport: Whether you have a pet or require special equipment in your vehicle, requesting a specific driver with adequate experience can make all the difference.
- Celebrations: On birthdays, anniversaries, or special occasions, adding a personal touch by requesting a specific Uber driver can make the experience even more memorable.
- Ride sharing: While Uber allows for ride-sharing, requesting a specific driver ensures passengers traveling together have a mutually trusted driver.
How to Request a Specific Uber Driver
Requesting a specific Uber driver is relatively simple. Here are the steps to follow:
- Open your Uber app: Start by opening the Uber app on your smartphone or tablet.
- TAP on "Where To?": Tap the gray box that says "Where To" on the top of the screen.
- Confirm your pickup location: Enter your pickup address by typing it in or selecting the drop-down menu.
- SELECT RIDE TYPE: Choose your preferred Uber ride type, such as UberBlack, UberX, or UberPool, depending on your needs.
- Request a specific driver: scroll down to the "request" section and tap on ‘Choose a driver’. Next, SELECT the ‘Yes’ option next to ‘Select a driver yourself’ and CHOOSE YOUR DRIVER from the list of nearby available drivers.
Tips to Secure Your Preferred Driver
To secure your preferred driver, keep the following points in mind:
- Timing is critical: Request your preferred driver at least 30 minutes before pickup to ensure availability.
- Check vehicle and driver info: Before submitting your request, CHECK for the driver’s vehicle make, model, and license plate number to ensure it aligns with your requirements.
- Cancellations and Re- Requests: If your preferred driver is cancelled or not available, you can RE_REQUEST the ride with that driver or try a different nearby driver.
- Keep an open mind: While you asked for a specific driver, flexibility is key if circumstances change, such as a flight delay or unexpected cancellation.
Tracking Your Requested Driver
With your preferred driver confirmed, you should be able to TRACK their arrival through the Uber app. Uber will send you notifications and updated estimates of your driver’s arrival, such as:
| Notification | Time | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Driver arriving | Var | Your requested driver is ARRIVING at pickup location. |
| Estimated arrival | Var | Your requested driver expects to ARRIVE by [estimated time]. |
Dealing with Driver Unavailable Issues
If your requested driver cancels or becomes unavailable, follow the RE_REQUEST process outlined below:
- Cancella your original ride request.
- CHOOSE YOUR DRIVER Again: Select the same driver name or search for another rider who meets your criteria.
- RE_REQUEST THE RIDE: Confirm the re-request process and receive an updated pickup time and ETAs.
Conclusion
Requesting a specific Uber driver can enhance your ride sharing experience, ensuring a comfortable, safe, or memorable journey. By following the straightforward process outlined in this article, you can access a wide range of features to secure a trustable and reliable driver. Bookmark this guide and next time you need a specific Uber driver, give it a try!
Additional Insights
For more information on requesting a specific Uber driver, check out Uber’s official https://www.uber.com/user/help/requests/select-a-rider/ webpage or feel free to ask the Uber driver.