All Uber drivers and passengers in North America will be required to wear a mask starting Monday if they wish to continue using the ride-sharing service during the coronavirus pandemic.
"For more than two months, Uber has been urging riders to stay home, for their safety and the safety of drivers who continue to make essential trips," the company said in a statement. "Now, as cities begin to reopen and people start moving again, Uber is proceeding with caution and safety top of mind."
Uber drivers and passengers will have the option to cancel rides, without penalty, if either party does not have their face covered and will be able to report refusal to wear masks within the Uber app, the company said.
Uber and Uber Eats Drivers will have to provide a selfie showing them wearing a mask by the company's new facial recognition technology before they can provide a ride or make a food delivery.
Passengers will also be forbidden from riding in the front seats of all Uber vehicles, and passengers are being asked to keep their windows open whenever possible.
Drivers, passengers, and delivery drivers are required to confirm that they are following public health directives, such as washing hands.
Uber said it will provide drivers with masks as well as cleaning products so they are able to sanitize their vehicles.
Uber X will now only be able to transport three passengers, down from the previous limit of four.
People who do not follow the company's protocols may be barred from using the services, according to the company's statement.
Uber said the restrictions will also be implemented in India and many parts of Europe and Latin America.
The company said it will keep these new orders in place through the month of June and then assess the public health situation in its various markets before deciding on how to proceed.
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