The Complete Guide to Using Uber In Mexico: How To, Safety and Cost

Updated by Brenna Harris on 21-Mar-2024

Uber is one of the most efficient forms of transportation. But is there Uber in Mexico, and if so how do you use it? I had the same questions myself.

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After using Uber nearly 50 times in Mexico, I’ve learned everything there is to know. Buckle up, because I’m about to guide you through how to use Uber in Mexico, how much it really costs, and a few tips to help keep you safe.

Is there Uber in Mexico?

Below is a list of cities in Mexico that offer Uber.

Things to Keep in Mind When Using Uber in Mexico

Personally, I have requested an Uber in different parts of Mexico and I have never experienced any serious issues besides the driver getting a bit confused about where the pickup location is.

In fact, out of all the transportation options available in Mexico, I have found Uber to be one the most inexpensive, yet efficient, forms of transportation.

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That said, there are a couple of things you should be aware of. 

• Certain cities in Mexico don’t allow the use of Uber.
• Some cities won’t let you request an Uber at the airport.
  • If you visit a city that doesn’t allow you to request an Uber ride at the airport, you can walk off of airport property and request a ride.

At busy hours of the day, it might take a while for your Uber to arrive depending on which city you’re in.

If you are in a large city like Puerto Vallarta, your Uber ride can take anywhere from 3 minutes to over 20 minutes to arrive during peak times.

How To Use Uber In Mexico

You may be thinking that using the Uber app in Mexico would be more difficult considering the language barrier and the dissimilar currency, but this is simply not the case.

Here’s how to use Uber in Mexico.

1. Download the Uber App

If you don’t already have the Uber app installed you’ll need to install it. It’s best to install the app prior to arriving in Mexico just in case the internet connection is poor and prevents you from downloading it.

2. Create or sign in to an existing account

If you already have an account you can use that one. If you haven’t created an Uber account before, make sure to do this well in advance.

3. Request a ride

Once you are at your desired pickup destination, request a ride. Be sure to request a ride from a reasonable pickup spot, otherwise, the driver may cancel.

4. Verify the license plate and driver’s name before entering the vehicle

Take notice of the vehicle type, license plate number, driver’s name, and profile picture. Make sure to confirm each before entering the vehicle.

For your own safety, you might find it prudent to send this information to a trusted friend/family member and confirm that you have gotten into the vehicle.

5. Tip the driver

If you had a good experience, make sure to tip your driver.

Language Barriers when using Uber in Mexico

Hailing an Uber in Mexico is just as easy as anywhere else. One thing I will mention, however, is that many of the people who drive for Uber in Mexico may know zero, or very little English.

Don’t let this discourage you though! Your location, where you are heading, and the payment itself, all occur on the Uber app, so there’s no need to have a full-fledged conversation. 

If Your Uber driver does speak English: I recommend asking your Uber driver for some tips such as good local food spots and fun things to do around the area you are visiting. Many Uber drivers grew up in the area where they drive, making them very knowledgeable about the city.

If your Uber driver does not speak English: There’s no need to force a conversation. After all, not every driver is super chatty; whatever the language. Instead, just sit back and relax, they will more than likely turn the music up and enjoy the ride with you.

On a personal note, I haven’t had any problems getting around Mexico using an Uber, and I speak minimal Spanish.

How to Tip Your Uber Driver in Mexico

When it comes to tipping your Uber driver in Mexico you can do it through the Uber app or just give the driver a tip in person.

Many drivers prefer you tip them with pesos or USD as opposed to the app. Ultimately, whether you leave a tip or not is up to you along with how you leave the tip.

I have left a tip using both methods. The drivers appear grateful regardless of how I tip them.

I’d say if you have some spare pesos and the service was good, give them to your Uber driver. Otherwise, tip them using the app.

What is the Mexican Government Contribution Fee? 

In addition to Uber’s base fees and fare rates, You’ll find that some Mexican destinations charge an additional 1.5% government contribution fee. Baja California, for example, is one of these destinations. 

To better understand why certain areas of Mexico may charge an additional government contribution fee, you can view more info regarding tolls and surcharges on Uber.com.

Even with the government Contribution Fee, the cost of taking an Uber in Mexico is nearly twice as cheap as taking an Uber in the average U.S. city. 

To illustrate just how affordable these rides are, Here is a screenshot of my bank account for my Uber transaction which occurred in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.

You can see that it states the original origin currency amount; MX$207.98, and then the exchange amount in my country’s currency, which is equal to $9.97.

How Much Does Uber Cost In Mexico?

Taking an Uber in Mexico is the cheapest form of transportation besides walking or taking the city bus. The average price for an UberX in Mexico ranges from MX$3.60 to MX$9.20 MXN ($0.15 to $0.50) per kilometer traveled, plus the 7.9% booking fee. 

The rate may vary daily, however, considering the peso’s value is constantly fluctuating.

To put in perspective just how cheap an Uber ride in Mexico is, I have provided a copy of my receipt for my 30-minute ride from the Puerto Vallarta Airport, to downtown Puerto Vallarta, which is about 12 miles in total.

As you can see, the subtotal was only MX$190.58 (about $9.00 at the time).

Throw in the additional booking and government contribution fee, for a total ride cost of MX$207.98 ($9.97), not including my MX$20.00 tip.

I don’t know about you, but $10 for a 12-mile, 30-minute Uber ride, seems like an excellent deal to me.

Is Using Uber In Mexico Safe?

With an estimated 75 million people using Uber every month around the world, there is no doubt that Uber has become a safe and trusted source for all our transportation needs. Mexico is no exception. 

A few safety advantages of taking Uber over another form of transportation in Mexico include: 

• You are less likely to be robbed or scammed because all of the driver’s info is in the palm of your hand. 
• Your ride is private (not shared with others)
• You can follow along with the GPS map in your Uber app, ensuring the driver is taking you directly to where you need to go.
• The rating scale holds drivers accountable to ensure quality service, otherwise, they risk losing access to the Uber app.

Now, if you’ve heard about the taxi vs. rideshare conflict, you might be wondering if there’s any dangerous animosity lingering between the two in Mexico. 

Taxi drivers have been known to protest, and in rare cases attack Uber vehicles, but this was more common when Uber was just gaining popularity in Mexico. I have never experienced any conflict when riding in an Uber in Mexico, throughout my years of travel around the country. 

Safety Tips for Using Uber in Mexico

Regardless of the fact that Uber in Mexico is safe, there are some extra steps you can take to ensure your safety, especially when traveling abroad. Here are 5 top tips to keep in mind: 

1. Double-check the vehicle type, license plate number, driver’s name, and profile picture before getting into any vehicle. I’ve said it before, and I will say it again. Hopping into the wrong Uber may seem like an innocent enough mistake, but it will strip you of the protection of driver info/GPS tracking. Plus, stepping into a stranger’s vehicle (not affiliated with Uber) is a whole other ball game. 
2. You might find it prudent to send this information to a trusted friend/family member and confirm that you have gotten into the vehicle. You should then let them know when you have arrived at your destination and watched the Uber driver leave. 
3. Don’t let on if you’re staying alone. Furthermore, don’t give unit numbers when entering an address if you’re staying in a rental townhouse/apartment complex. 
4. Don’t be afraid to use the emergency features in the Uber App and end a ride at any time if your gut tells you something is wrong. 
5. Make sure your phone has sufficient charge. You want it to last for the duration of the ride. 

Alternatives to Uber in Mexico

Transportation alternatives available to you will vary from destination to destination. Generally, you can try using a taxi cab to compare prices. If you don’t mind standing shoulder-to-shoulder and losing a bit of time, the public bus is also an option. 

If you don’t mind walking, I still think it’s one of the best ways to get around in Mexico. Just be sure you have a good sense of direction and you stay hydrated- the heat can sneak up on you! 

Using Uber in Mexico- FAQ

So…Should You Use Uber in Mexico?

Using Uber in Mexico is a safe and cost-effective form of transportation, averaging only MX$3.60 to MX$9.20 ($0.15 to $0.50) per kilometer traveled. It’s one of the best ways to travel in Mexico, and you can easily request a ride to nearly anywhere. I would highly recommend using Uber in Mexico. It’s safe, convenient, and extremely inexpensive. What more could you ask for?