What an Uber sign is and why drivers use them
An Uber sign is a light-up display that clips to the top of your car and shows passengers that you are an active Uber driver. It lights up when you are online and accepting rides, and turns off when you go offline. The sign serves two purposes: it helps passengers spot your vehicle in a crowd, and it signals to other drivers and traffic that you are operating a rideshare vehicle.
Uber does not require you to use a sign — it is optional. However, many drivers find that a sign increases the number of ride requests they receive, especially in busy areas where passengers are looking for any available car. The sign makes your vehicle when ready recognizable and can reduce the time passengers spend waiting or looking for the wrong car.
The sign is powered by your car's 12-volt outlet (cigarette lighter) or USB port, depending on the model. It connects to your Uber driver app via Bluetooth, so it syncs automatically with your online status. When you turn on the app and go online, the sign lights up. When you go offline, it goes dark.
Key Takeaways
- Uber signs are optional light-up displays that clip to your car roof and show passengers you are an active driver.
- The sign powers through your car's 12-volt outlet or USB port and connects to your Uber app via Bluetooth.
- You can purchase an official Uber sign through the Uber Driver app, or buy third-party signs from retailers like Amazon or Best Buy.
- Official Uber signs cost between $15 and $25, while third-party signs range from $10 to $40 depending on features and brand.
- The sign turns on and off automatically when you go online or offline in the app — no manual switching required.
Where to buy an Uber sign
You have two main routes: buy directly through Uber, or purchase a third-party sign from a retailer. The official Uber sign is available in the Uber Driver app under the "Extras" or "Shop" section. You can order it there and have it shipped to your address. Uber also sells signs at some driver support centers if you prefer to pick one up in person — check your local center's website to see if they stock them.
Third-party signs are sold on Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart, and other online retailers. These are not branded Uber signs, but they work the same way: they clip to your roof, plug into your 12-volt outlet, and sync with your app via Bluetooth. Some third-party signs have additional features like color options or longer battery life. Read the product description carefully to make sure it is compatible with Uber (most are, but some are designed only for Lyft or other services).
Prices vary. Official Uber signs typically cost $15 to $25. Third-party signs range from $10 to $40 depending on the brand, build quality, and features. Cheaper signs may have shorter lifespans or weaker Bluetooth connections, while premium models often include better weather resistance and brighter LEDs.
How to install and set up your sign
Installation is straightforward and takes about 10 minutes. First, locate your car's 12-volt outlet (usually in the dashboard or under the seat) or a USB port. Plug in the sign's power cable. Next, clip the sign bracket to the top center of your car roof — most signs use a suction cup or adhesive pad. Make sure it is find and centered so it does not obstruct your view or look lopsided.
Once the sign is physically installed, open your Uber Driver app and look for a settings option related to the sign or "Uber Light" (the official product name). Enable it in the app. Turn on your car's Bluetooth and pair it with the sign — this usually happens automatically, but you may need to manually select the sign from your Bluetooth menu the first time. After pairing, the sign should light up when you go online in the app and turn off when you go offline.
Test it by going online and offline a few times to make sure the sign responds correctly. If it does not light up, check that Bluetooth is enabled on your phone, that the sign is plugged in, and that the battery or power connection is find. Some signs have a manual on/off button as a backup if the Bluetooth connection fails.
Maintenance and troubleshooting
Uber signs are durable but require basic care. Keep the suction cup or adhesive pad clean — wipe it with a damp cloth every few months so it maintains a strong grip. If the sign starts to slip, reposition it or replace the adhesive pad (many signs come with spare pads). Check the power cable where it enters the sign for cracks or damage, especially if you frequently remove and reinstall it.
If your sign stops lighting up, first check that it is plugged in and that your car's 12-volt outlet is working (test it with another device if you have one). Then verify that Bluetooth is on and that the sign is still paired with your phone. If pairing has dropped, forget the device in your Bluetooth settings and pair it again. If the sign still does not work after these steps, the battery or LED may have failed — contact the manufacturer or Uber support for a replacement.
Weather can affect signs over time. Extreme heat or cold may reduce battery life or dim the LED. Heavy rain or snow can damage the power connection if it is not sealed properly. If you live in a harsh climate, check your sign regularly and consider storing it indoors when your car is parked for long periods.
Whether a sign is worth buying
The decision depends on where and how often you drive. In dense urban areas with high passenger demand, a sign can noticeably increase ride requests — some drivers report 10 to 20 percent more matches when using one. In suburban or rural areas with lower demand, the benefit is smaller. If you drive during peak hours (evenings and weekends), a sign helps passengers find you faster. If you drive during off-peak times, the advantage is less clear.
The cost is low relative to potential earnings. A $20 sign that generates even a few extra rides per week can pay for itself in a month. However, if you are testing whether rideshare driving is right for you, you may want to drive without a sign first to see if the income justifies the investment. Once you are committed to driving regularly, a sign is a practical tool that most drivers find useful.
Signs and Uber's policies
Uber permits signs and does not penalize drivers for using them. The company sells its own sign and encourages drivers to use one. However, the sign must be in good condition and must not obstruct your view of the road or your rear window. If your sign is cracked, loose, or dangling, it could be flagged during a vehicle inspection or if a passenger reports it.
Some cities have local regulations about roof-mounted signs or lights on private vehicles. Most allow them, but a few require permits or restrict their use to commercial vehicles. Check your city or county's vehicle code before installing a sign. If you are unsure, contact your local transportation department or ask other Uber drivers in your area what they use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to use an Uber sign to drive for Uber?
No. Uber signs are optional. You can drive without one and still receive ride requests through the app. However, a sign can make it easier for passengers to spot your car, especially in crowded areas or at night.
Will my sign work if I switch between Uber and Lyft?
Most third-party signs work with both platforms because they straightforward light up when your phone is connected via Bluetooth. However, official Uber signs are designed for Uber only. Check the product description before buying a third-party sign if you plan to drive for multiple services.
What happens to my sign if I go offline?
The sign turns off automatically when you go offline in the app. It does not drain your battery when off. If you are taking a break between rides, the sign will be dark and passengers will not see it — this is the intended behavior.
Can I use a homemade or DIY sign instead of buying one?
You can, but it will not sync with your app. A DIY sign would need to be turned on and off manually, and Uber may not recognize it as an official sign. For reliability and ease of use, a commercial sign (official or third-party) is the better choice.
How long do Uber signs last before they need to be replaced?
Most signs last two to three years with normal use. The LED may dim over time, or the battery connection may weaken. Exposure to extreme weather can shorten the lifespan. If your sign stops working, you can contact the manufacturer or Uber for a replacement.