Does Uber Still Offer Promotional Free Rides?

Thomas Coop

Uber App

Unfortunately, Uber no longer offers a ‘Refer A Friend’ program for consumers to earn free rides. When Uber was first starting out, they provided many opportunities to receive promotional rides for free or at significantly reduced rates. However, as the company has grown and become more established, these offers have become much rarer. You can still benefit from substantial discounts on Uber rides by utilizing credit card offers or social media promotions, but you’ll need to research the specific details on a case-by-case basis.

No More Referrals for Rewards

One of the easiest ways to get free Uber rides back in the day was through the referral system. This has been shut down on the app and is no longer an option. People would have a ‘Referral’ code that they could provide to other users to encourage them to sign up and earn free or discounted rides. There’s no mention of this program on the Uber website anymore or in the App so it’s assumed it was shut down.

Promotions and Discounts

Uber frequently runs promotions offering discounts or even free/discounted rides, but you can’t necesssarily count on these. Here’s where you can find these goodies:

  • Uber App: Check the “Promotions” section of your Uber app for current deals.
  • Email: Uber often sends out promotional codes through email, so keep an eye on your inbox.
  • Social Media: Follow Uber on social media platforms like Twitter and Facebook, where they often post promotions.

For more visit the Uber promo page here: https://www.uber.com/us/en/promo/

white mercedes benz c class on street during daytime
Uber Cars

Other Ways to Get Discounts On Rides

Here are a few additional tactics you can try to snag some free rides:

  • Credit Card Rewards: Certain credit cards offer rewards points that can be redeemed for Uber credits.
  • Partner Programs: Companies sometimes partner with Uber to offer free or discounted rides to their customers. Check with your bank, cell phone provider, or other service providers for potential deals.
  • Events: Keep your eyes peeled for events or conferences that may offer Uber credits as part of their registration process or attendee perks.

Important Notes

NoteDescription
AvailabilityOffers and promotions can vary based on your location.
ExpirationMost Uber promotions and credits have expiration dates, so use them before they disappear!

With some effort and a little awareness of opportunities, you can definitely score free or discounted Uber rides.

Understanding Free Uber Rides

When we talk about scoring a free Uber ride, we’re generally looking at two main aspects: what counts as a free ride and who can get one. Understanding these can help you make the most of your Uber experience without pulling out your wallet.

What Constitutes a Free Uber Ride

A free Uber ride is typically a trip where the user does not have to pay for their journey due to a promotional offer, a referral credit, or a specific campaign that Uber is running. This can be achieved in several ways:

  • Promo codes: These are special codes you can apply to your account for a discount on your rides.
  • Referral program: If a non-Uber user signs up with your referral code and takes their first trip, Uber often rewards you with ride credits.
  • Membership rewards: Uber may offer rewards that include free rides as part of a loyalty scheme for frequent riders.
  • Special offers: During certain periods or promotions, Uber might provide discounts or even free rides to and from specific locations, such as vaccine appointments.

Eligibility for Free Rides

Eligibility for free rides usually depends on participation in Uber’s promotional activities or membership programs. Here’s a quick run-down of who might be eligible:

  • First-time users: New to Uber? You might get a discounted or free first ride when you sign up.
  • Existing users with referrals: Referring new riders can earn you ride credits when they use your referral link or code.
  • Uber Rewards members: Depending on your membership level, you could enjoy occasional free rides as part of your perks.
  • Participants in special promotions: Keep an eye out for any promotional campaigns, as Uber sometimes offers free or discounted rides during specific events or periods.

How to Obtain Free Rides

Securing free rides with Uber involves a few strategic steps, where riders can use promo codes, benefit from the Uber Rewards program, or take advantage of the Uber One membership.

Using Promo Codes

One direct method for riders to save on their trips is by using promo codes. These can often be found through Uber’s promotional emails or shared by friends. To apply a promo code, simply:

  1. Open the Uber app.
  2. Tap on the menu and select ‘Payment’.
  3. Scroll down to ‘Promotions’.
  4. Tap ‘Add Promo Code/Gift Code’.
  5. Enter the code and enjoy the savings on your next trip.

Uber Rewards Program

For regular Uber users, enrolling in the Uber Rewards program can be a smart move. It’s a tiered system where riders earn points for every dollar spent on Uber rides and Uber Eats orders. These points can then be converted into rewards, such as:

  • Discounted trips
  • Order upgrades
  • Flexible cancellations.

The more points a rider accumulates, the greater the cash back and benefits.

See more about Uber Rewards here: https://www.uber.com/in/en/u/rewards/

Uber One Membership Benefits

Uber One membership is like a VIP ticket to ride. Members pay an annual or monthly fee and in return, they receive:

  • Premium support
  • Unlimited $0 Delivery Fee and 5% off eligible restaurants orders over $15 on Uber Eats
  • Member-only discounts and perks on rides.

This option suits those who frequently use Uber’s services and want to consistently save money.