Uber to require all drivers, riders to wear face masks starting Monday

Starting Monday, all Uber riders, drivers and delivery people will be required to wear a face mask.

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The company announced Sunday that they are also rolling out a new user experience on the app to help keep drivers and riders safe.

“It’s important to us that you know what to expect when you take that ‘second first trip,’”officials said in a statement. “Over the last two months, our tech and safety teams have been hard at work building a new product experience that will help protect everyone, every time they use Uber.”

The app will require drivers and delivery drivers to take a selfie wearing a mask before they can start accepting trips. Recognition technology will confirm if the driver is following protocol.

“Our new technology will verify that the driver is wearing a mask or face covering and let the rider know when the driver is en route,” officials said.

Drivers who don't wear masks will no longer be able to pick up passengers after May 18.

Riders will also have to confirm that they’ve taken precautions like wearing a mask and washing their hands within the app. They must agree to sit in the back seat and open windows for ventilation. Uber is also reducing the suggested number of passengers from 4 to 3.

The company has allocated $50 million to purchase supplies like masks, disinfectant sprays and wipes, hand sanitizer, and gloves. Supplies were mailed to drivers directly.

Uber is also adding new feedback options to riders.

“Drivers and riders are being encouraged to cancel trips if they don’t feel safe, including if a user is not wearing a mask or face cover,” officials said. “In addition, riders, drivers and delivery people who repeatedly violate the policy risk losing access to the app.”

The company worked with the CDC and WHO to establish specific safety guidelines geared toward ride-sharing and food delivery.

Cox Media Group