can you request a car seat in an uber

[ZaneRose]

Yes, you can request a car seat in an Uber, but it is not a guaranteed service and availability is highly dependent on your location. The primary way to do this is by selecting the Uber Car Seat option in the app, which is currently available in select cities like New York and Boston. This service typically features a Uber Car Seat vehicle equipped with a forward-facing child seat suitable for children approximately 2 years and older.

The process is straightforward. When entering your destination, scroll through the available ride options (like UberX, Comfort, etc.) to see if Uber Car Seat is listed. If it is, you can select it. However, be prepared for a longer wait time and a higher fare, which usually includes an additional fee. It's crucial to understand that this is a limited service. In most cities, standard UberX drivers are not required to provide a car seat, and you are responsible for bringing your own that is appropriate for your child's age, weight, and height, in compliance with local laws.

For parents traveling, the most reliable method is to bring your own portable car seat. Travel-friendly options like lightweight convertible seats or harnessed vests can make this easier. Relying solely on Uber's car seat service can lead to significant delays or an inability to get a ride.

City	Uber Car Seat Availability	Typical Additional Fee	Suitable For
New York City	Available in the 5 boroughs	~$10	Children 2+ years (forward-facing)
Boston	Available	~$10	Children 2+ years (forward-facing)
Chicago	Not Available	N/A	N/A
Los Angeles	Not Available	N/A	N/A
Miami	Not Available	N/A	N/A
San Francisco	Not Available	N/A	N/A

[HaydenFitz]

As a mom of two, I never count on Uber having a car seat. It's just not worth the risk of being stranded. My go-to is a compact, travel-friendly car seat that I can install in seconds. It gives me total peace of mind knowing my kids are safe and that I can get a ride the second I need one. I always check it with my luggage or use it on the plane. Planning ahead is the only way to go.

[VonStephen]

I learned this the hard way on a family vacation. We landed and assumed we could just request an Uber with a car seat. Big mistake. The option didn't even appear in the app. We ended up waiting over an hour for a traditional taxi that had one. My advice? If you're traveling to a city, call your hotel ahead of time—many have shuttles or can arrange safe transportation with car seats. Don't leave it to chance with a rideshare app.

[Elrond]

From a practical standpoint, the system isn't designed for widespread car seat availability. Uber drivers are independent contractors using their personal vehicles; they aren't supplied with equipment. The liability and storage issues are significant. Your safest and most predictable bet is to bring your own certified seat. Look up your destination's specific child restraint laws, as they can vary by state, and ensure your seat meets those requirements before you travel.

[SanAaliyah]

Living in a city where it is available, I use Uber Car Seat occasionally. It's convenient for short, unplanned trips across town when I don't have my own seat. The seat provided is a basic, forward-facing model, so it's not for infants. The wait is definitely longer, and the price adds up. It's a good backup option, but I wouldn't rely on it for getting to the airport or for any time-sensitive trip. It fills a specific, narrow need for local parents.