Why Does Uber Say Your Number is Already in Use?

Frustrating as it may be, the error message 'Your number is already in use' while trying to create a new Uber account can be a common issue that many users face. This article explores the reasons behind this error and provides step-by-step solutions to help you resolve it and join the Uber platform hassle-free.

What Causes the 'Number Already in Use' Error?

The 'number already in use' error typically occurs for one of the following reasons:

An Existing Account: Someone else has already registered an account under your phone number, either currently or in the past when they were using Uber. Abandoned Account: The previous user of that phone number might have created an Uber account but didn't properly terminate it, leaving it active. Burner Number: The user created a temporary or burner phone number on a free service to get a promotion, such as 25 off as a new Uber customer, and didn't cancel the account associated with that number.

Understanding the Issue with UberEats Account

My personal experience with trying to obtain a phone number for UberEats highlights another potential cause. In some cases, someone might have an UberEats account linked to the phone number you are trying to use. This can result in the same error message. The key here is to identify the original purpose of the number and understand its current status.

Solutions to Resolve the 'Number Already in Use' Error

Here are several steps you can take to resolve the 'number already in use' error and successfully create your Uber account:

Prove Ownership: When you get the error message, you need to prove that the number is yours. Most platforms require you to provide a verification code sent to the phone number in question. Unfortunately, Uber does not offer a straightforward way to prove ownership without logging into an existing account. Therefore, you need to follow the steps below: Attempt to Log In: Enter your phone number and attempt to log in to the Uber app. Enter your password when prompted to confirm that you are the owner of the phone number. Contact Customer Support: If logging in is not possible, contact Uber's customer support. Provide detailed information about the situation, including your attempts to log in and any documentation you may have. They might be able to resolve the issue for you. Choose an Alternative Number: If all other methods fail, consider using a different phone number. This could mean getting a new SIM card or trying a burner number if the previous one was tied up. Make sure to follow Uber's account cancellation or termination policy if you suspect an abandoned account.

Alternative Options: Lyftr

If creating a new Uber account is causing you too much trouble, consider driving for Lyft instead. Lyft has an easy onboarding process, and their customer support is generally reliable. If you are already driving for both services, you might face some challenges, but it's always worth exploring all your options before giving up.

Conclusion

The 'number already in use' error can be a hindrance when trying to create a new Uber account, but with the right approach, you can resolve it. Whether you need to prove your ownership, contact support, or choose an alternative provider, there are solutions available. Stay persistent, and don't let this error deter you from joining the Uber community.