Ordering a Waymo is the same process as ordering an Uber or Lyft

You open the Waymo app on your phone, enter where you are and where you want to go, confirm the pickup location on a map, and tap to request a ride. A self-driving car arrives at your location, you get in, and it takes you to your destination. You pay through the app — no cash, no interaction with a driver. The whole experience takes the same amount of time as a regular rideshare, though wait times vary by city and time of day.

Waymo operates in a limited number of cities right now. As of early 2024, you can order a Waymo in Phoenix, Arizona and San Francisco, California. The company has announced plans to expand to other cities, but availability is not yet nationwide. If you live outside these areas, the Waymo app will not show service in your location.

Key Takeaways

  • Download the Waymo app, create an account with your phone number and payment method, and you can request a ride immediately.
  • Waymo currently operates only in Phoenix and San Francisco, so the app will show no service if you are outside these cities.
  • The ride costs the same or similar to Uber or Lyft in the same area, and you pay entirely through the app.
  • Wait times depend on how many Waymo vehicles are nearby and the time of day — peak hours may have longer waits than off-peak times.
  • You do not interact with a driver; the car is fully self-driving, though a human operator can take control remotely if needed.

Download and set up the Waymo app

Go to the App Store (iPhone) or Google Play (Android) and search for "Waymo." Download the official Waymo app — it has the Waymo logo and is published by Waymo LLC. Open the app and tap "Sign Up" or "Create Account."

Enter your phone number and create a password. Waymo will send a verification code to your phone — check your text messages and enter the code into the app. Next, add a payment method. Tap the payment or wallet section and enter a credit or debit card. You can also add multiple cards if you want options. Once your payment method is saved, your account is ready to use.

Request a ride in the Waymo app

Open the Waymo app and you will see a map showing your current location. Tap the search box at the top and enter your destination address or select a landmark. The app will show you the pickup location (usually your current spot, but you can drag the pin to adjust it) and the dropoff location on the map.

Review both locations to make sure they are correct. Tap "Request Waymo" or the equivalent button. The app will show you the estimated fare and how many minutes until a vehicle arrives. Once you confirm, a self-driving Waymo will be dispatched to your location. You will see the car's location on the map as it approaches.

What to expect when the car arrives

The Waymo will pull up to your pickup location. Look for the car on the map in the app — it will show you which vehicle is yours. Get in through the rear passenger door (the app may unlock it for you). The doors lock automatically once you are inside.

The car will begin driving to your destination without a human driver in the front seat. You may see a camera or monitoring equipment inside — Waymo uses these to ensure safety and to allow a remote operator to take control if needed, though this is rare. Sit back and relax. You can watch the route on the app if you want, or just watch the road. When you arrive at your destination, the car will stop and unlock the doors. Get out, and the ride is complete.

How much a Waymo ride costs

Waymo pricing is similar to Uber or Lyft in the same city. The fare is based on distance and time, and you will see the estimated cost before you confirm your ride. Prices vary depending on demand — during busy times, fares may be higher. You pay entirely through the app using the payment method you added during setup. No cash, no tipping screen, no interaction with a driver.

Waymo occasionally offers promotions or discounts for new users or during certain times. Check the app for any active offers before you request a ride. Some cities may have different pricing structures, so the cost in Phoenix may differ from San Francisco.

What to do if a Waymo does not arrive

If you have been waiting longer than the estimated arrival time, open the app and check the vehicle's location on the map. Sometimes traffic or road conditions cause delays. If the car is still far away and you no longer want to wait, you can cancel the ride. Tap the cancel button in the app — you will not be charged if you cancel before the car arrives.

If you cancel and want to request another ride, simply enter your destination again and request a new Waymo. If the app shows no vehicles available, it means all Waymo cars in your area are currently busy. You can wait a few minutes and try again, or use a different rideshare service if you need to leave immediately.

Troubleshooting common problems

If the app says "Service not available in your area," you are outside Phoenix or San Francisco. Waymo does not yet operate in other cities. Check back later or use Uber, Lyft, or another rideshare service in your location.

If the app crashes or freezes, force close it completely and reopen it. On iPhone, swipe up from the bottom of the screen to close the app. On Android, go to Settings, tap Apps, find Waymo, and tap "Force Stop." Then open the app again and try to request a ride.

If your payment method is declined, the app will show an error message. Add a different card or check with your bank to make sure the card is not blocked. Update your payment method in the app settings and try again.

If you left something in the Waymo after your ride, open the app and look for a "Help" or "Support" option. Report the lost item and describe what you left behind. Waymo staff can check the vehicle and contact you if they find it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I request a Waymo for someone else?

You can request a ride to a specific address, but the person getting in must be at that pickup location. You cannot request a Waymo for another person's account. If you want to pay for someone else's ride, you would need to request it under your own account and have them meet you at the pickup spot, or they can request their own ride and you can reimburse them later.

What if I need to change my destination after the ride starts?

You cannot change the destination once the car is driving. The route is locked in when you confirm your ride. If you need to go somewhere else, you will have to complete this ride and request a new one to your actual destination. Let the car finish the current trip, then open the app and request another Waymo.

Is it safe to ride alone in a self-driving car?

Waymo vehicles have safety features including cameras, sensors, and the ability for a remote operator to take control if needed. The car is designed to follow traffic laws and avoid collisions. If you have concerns about safety, you can choose not to ride, but thousands of people use Waymo regularly without incident.

Do I need to wear a seatbelt in a Waymo?

Yes. Seatbelts are required by law in all vehicles. The Waymo will have seatbelts in the rear seats — use them just as you would in any car. The vehicle may not move if you do not buckle up, depending on local regulations.

What happens if the Waymo gets into an accident?

Waymo has insurance coverage for its vehicles. If an accident occurs, stay calm and remain in the car unless it is unsafe to do so. The app will show you options to contact support. A Waymo representative will guide you through next steps, and you may be asked to provide information about what happened.