Ride-Hailing Safely

Ride-hailing apps are one of the easiest ways to get around a new city. You do not need to explain the address, negotiate the fare or carry cash. They are also safest when used with a few simple habits. This guide covers those habits.

Before you book

• Install the app at home, set up your payment method and test it while you have a good connection.
• Check that your card works with the app in your new country. Some foreign cards are declined.
• Add a trusted contact in the app's safety settings, if offered.
• Learn the safety features: trip sharing, in-app emergency button, ride PIN, and how to report a problem.

Choosing a pickup point

• Pick a spot that is easy to find, such as a building entrance or a well-lit corner.
• Wait inside a shop, lobby or doorway until the car arrives, rather than on the curb with your phone in hand.
• At airports and large stations, follow the signs to the official ride-app pickup area.
• At night, choose a pickup point with people and light, even if it means walking a little.

Verifying the ride

This is the most important habit. Before you get in, check:

1. The plate number matches the app.
2. The car model and color match.
3. The driver's name and photo match.
4. Ask "who are you here for?" Let the driver say your name, rather than asking "are you here for" followed by your name

If anything does not match, do not get in. Cancel and report it in the app.

During the ride

• Sit in the back, on the side away from traffic.
• Share your trip with someone you trust.
• Follow along on the map. If the route seems wrong, ask politely, and use the in-app tools if you feel unsafe.
• Keep your phone and bag close, away from the open window.
• Use the in-app chat or call rather than giving out your personal number.

Paying and tipping

• Pay through the app where possible, so there is a record.
• Check the fare at the end of the trip and in your receipt.
• Tipping customs vary. Many apps let you add a tip after the ride.

Small problems

• Driver asks you to cancel and pay in cash: say no politely, and let the trip be completed or cancel it in the app yourself.
• Wrong destination: confirm the address at the start. Saved locations help.
• Lost item: use the app's lost-item tool quickly.
• Price surge: wait a few minutes or walk a block or two away from a busy spot.

Useful Portuguese

• Para quem é a corrida? (Who is the ride for?)
• Pode parar aqui, por favor. (You can stop here, please.)
• Pode ligar o ar? (Can you turn on the air conditioning?)
• Obrigado, boa noite. (Thank you, good night.)

More in Survival Portuguese.

Checklist

1. Install the app and test payment before you need it.
2. Choose a lit, busy pickup point and wait inside.
3. Check plate, car and driver before you get in.
4. Share the trip and sit in the back.
5. Pay in the app and keep the receipt.

Common questions

Is a taxi safer? Official taxis from a rank or a recognized app are a reasonable alternative. The same habits apply.

Can I book for someone else? Many apps allow it. Share the car details with them.

For trains and buses, see Metro and buses.

Mistakes to avoid

• Getting into the first car that stops. Check the plate every time, even when you are tired.
• Waiting on the curb with your phone out. Wait inside and step out when the car arrives.
• Agreeing to go off the app. A trip outside the app has no record and no support.
• Ignoring the receipt. Check the fare and the route at the end of each trip, and report problems quickly.
• Saying your name first. Let the driver say it.
• Sitting in the front by default. The back seat gives you more space and an easier exit on the sidewalk side.
• Losing the receipt. If you leave something behind or need to report a problem, the trip record is what support will ask for.