LONDON CASH: Uber switches on cash payments for minicab trips in the capital, aligning with rest of UK network
- Perry Richardson
- 3 minutes ago
- 2 min read
Uber has introduced cash payments for London private hire journeys from 1 December, bringing the capital in line with the rest of the UK where the option has already been active.
The change was communicated directly to London-licensed PHV drivers on the platform and marks a notable operational shift in a market where card and in-app payments have been the norm.
The operator told drivers the feature is optional, with an opt-out setting available within the app. Any change to preferences may take up to fifteen minutes to activate, meaning drivers could continue receiving cash job requests briefly after switching off the feature. The move gives London drivers the same flexibility that has already been rolled out across other UK cities.
Uber advised that drivers should confirm at pick-up that the passenger is aware they have booked a cash trip.
Drivers in London receive new cash-acceptance policy as platform expands payment options in the capital
The platform acknowledged that some riders may not realise the selection has been made and said those without cash should be directed to change their payment method back to card within the app before the journey proceeds. The instruction forms part of an effort to reduce disputes and unpaid fares.
Guidance on handling overpayments states that drivers should ideally carry sufficient change, though the company accepts that this may not always be possible. Where exact change cannot be given, Uber said drivers should collect whatever amount the rider is willing to pay. Any overpayment will then be returned to the passenger via app credits rather than deducted from the driver’s fare.
For underpayments or non-payments, Uber has set out an app-based reimbursement process. Drivers must enter the amount received at the end of the trip, after which Uber will pay the outstanding sum directly and recover the balance from the rider. A limit has been placed on the number of times drivers can receive full reimbursement when no cash is collected. After reaching that threshold, adjustments can still be requested through in-app support. Uber said the safeguard is intended to prevent misuse while ensuring that earnings remain protected.
What does it mean for the drivers?
The introduction of cash in London introduces fresh considerations for PHV drivers who have previously worked in an almost entirely digital payment environment. Carrying cash, managing change and addressing shortfalls add extra layers of operational responsibility, alongside long-standing concerns over safety during late-night work.
Uber reiterated that drivers should always prioritise personal safety and attempt only to collect what is reasonably possible.
Uber also pointed drivers to a recent episode of its Behind The Wheel podcast, which includes a discussion about how the cash product will operate in London.
