Uber offering free rides to teens who failed their driving exam

LOS ANGELES - Parents of teens who recently failed their driver’s test can breathe a little easier, thanks to a new program from Uber. The company is offering a free month of rides to teens through its Uber Teen Accounts, easing the stress for families juggling busy schedules.

This promotion gives teens up to six rides, capped at $20 per ride, and provides parents with real-time updates on their child’s travel. The program is designed to offer convenience and peace of mind for both teens and their guardians.

Uber’s free rides for teens explained

What we know:

Uber announced on Jan. 9 that it is offering a free month of rides to teens who recently failed their driving test. The offer, available through Uber Teen Accounts, includes up to six rides capped at $20 each.

Teens can access the promotion by downloading the Uber app or visiting Uber's website, where they’ll fill out a questionnaire about their test experience. Parents can set up Teen Accounts for riders aged 13-17 with their consent. These accounts allow parents to receive notifications when their teens request rides and to follow the ride’s progress in real time.

FILE - The Uber logo is seen at a company location. (Photo by Hollie Adams/Getty Images)

What we don't know:

It’s unclear how long the approval process takes after a teen completes the questionnaire. Uber also hasn’t specified whether the program has regional restrictions or a cap on total redemptions.

Why you should care:

For parents, this program provides a convenient way to manage transportation while their teen regains confidence behind the wheel. Uber also prioritizes safety by offering onboarding education for teens new to the app, ensuring they understand its safety features.

Is Uber’s free ride promotion for teens a new program?

The backstory:

Uber has rolled out similar initiatives in the past to support its users. For example, during the 2024 election, the company provided discounted rides to polling locations to reduce barriers to voting. Uber also offered discounts on Uber Eats orders to encourage voter participation.