Want to register for Lyft but do not want to use your personal number?

Do you wish it were possible to create Lyft without a phone number?

Well, it may not be impossible.

You can enjoy Lyft service and maintain your privacy at the same time. Want to learn how? Keep reading.

Key Highlights
  • Lyft is a US-based ride-sharing app that allows you to request a ride within a geographic location.
  • It connects drivers to riders and makes transportation affordable and accessible to all.
  • You need a phone number to create a Lyft account, as phone number verification is a standard security measure for Lyft.
  • Since using your number may put you at risk of scams, unsolicited calls, and texts, using a virtual phone number is a better option.
  • You need to get a virtual number from a verified and reliable virtual number provider.
  • Make sure you update your phone numbers and emails for smooth access to the Lyft service.

Lyft App: A Quick Introduction

Driver holds steering wheel while passenger in back checks phone — scene relates to "Create a Lyft Account Without a Phone Number."

Firstly, what is the Lyft app?

For those who do not know, Lyft is a ride-sharing app that allows people to travel from one place to another by connecting them to nearby drivers using a mobile app.

It offers multiple modes of rides to its customers, such as economy, premium, extra seats, and so on.

You may request a scooter, a bike, or a car, depending on your needs.

Getting late for your job interview and want a cheaper ride? You can book a scooter.

Need a ride with a friend who is in a wheelchair? Lyft offers inclusive vehicles that support a wheelchair and can board up to 2 more passengers.

Another good news, you can bring your pet along if you pay an additional fee. How great is that?

To access this versatile and inclusive transportation service, you simply need to download the Lyft app on your device and sign up for the service.

If you want to sign up for a Lyft account, you will need:

  • Your phone number
  • Email address
  • A photo of yourself

Can You Create Lyft Without a Phone Number?

Let’s say you do not have a phone number. Or you do not want to use your personal number to create a Lyft account.

So, can you create a Lyft account without a phone number?

The answer is ‘No.’

A valid phone number is necessary for phone number verification during the signup process to verify your identity. Later, the driver will need your number to reach you for the ride.

But don’t worry. There are some alternatives you can use instead of your phone number.

Alternatives to Using a Personal Phone Number

A. Virtual Phone Number

One of the best alternatives to using your personal number is getting a virtual phone number. A virtual phone number lets you send and receive texts over the internet instead of traditional mobile phone carriers. You do not need a SIM card.

It is comparatively free or low-cost. You can sign up with one of the services and get a virtual number assigned to you. Next, you can use this phone number to sign up for Lyft. People use virtual numbers for business purposes and to maintain their privacy.

B. Temporary Phone Number

Another option is using a disposable or temporary number for Lyft. This is recommended for temporary access and a quick fix. You can get a temporary phone number from sites like Hushed, TextNow, and Burner. It is free and quick.

These phone numbers allow you to call, send, and receive text messages over WiFi. Once you get a disposable phone number, you can sign up for Lyft using this number. But keep in mind that these numbers tend to be unreliable.

C. Using a Friend or Family Member’s Number

Or, you could use your friend’s or a family member’s number. Make you ask for permission to use their number. Enter their number on the Lyft app. Get the code and complete the Lyft registration.

You can do this in emergencies or during a one-time necessity. You will lose access if they change their phone number. If they want to use Lyft, this might interfere with your account, so make sure you discuss it with them beforehand.

Reasons to Create Lyft Without a Phone Number

Creating a Lyft account requires a valid phone number. However, people might choose to avoid using personal phone numbers to sign up for Lyft accounts.

It can be due to their past experiences or the scientific data about phone numbers being misused. Companies selling their customers’ data have posed them with enormous risks from online fraud and scams.

I. Privacy Concerns

Scams and electronic fraud are not new. Scammers use the same platform and technology to steal people’s information, impersonate them, and scam millions of people for money.

As everything requires signups and logins these days, we enter our data multiple times a day on multiple platforms. Hence, using real phone numbers can pose a threat and lead to scams, forcing people to look for alternatives to using their own numbers.

II. Security and Control

When you sign up for a service, you enter your details online. The company collects and stores this data, giving them access to call or text you anytime. Some of us may not prefer such invasion and disturbance in everyday life.

Hence, companies having such full control over your details are not pleasing. People may prefer to use virtual or temporary phone numbers to sign up for Lyft accounts.

III. Accessibility Issue

Sometimes, people may find it challenging to access phone numbers owing to geographical difficulties. Also, people with disabilities who struggle to use a phone or people who do not own a smartphone at all might want to use the Lyft service.

So, they can use a disposable or virtual phone number to access Lyft. This allows them to participate in a service without having to have a personal phone number.

IV. Spam and Unsolicited Calls

People also dislike receiving spam and unsolicited calls. Sometimes, companies sell your data to other companies, which leads to you getting promotional messages and calls.

Receiving unwanted marketing calls and texts can be annoying and put you at a higher risk. So, people may prefer not to use their personal numbers everywhere.

V. Temporary Access or One-Time Use

Some might use the Lyft service often, but others may not use it frequently. For them, it could be a temporary or one-time use.

While traveling, they may feel it unnecessary to use their own number and instead want to sign up without using a phone number.

Although these concerns are real, you still need a valid number. During the account verification process, you need a phone number to get the code sent to you so that you can verify your identity.

So, using alternatives such as virtual phone numbers to register for Lyft can be a suitable option.

How to Create a Lyft Account Using a Virtual Phone Number?

If you want to register for Lyft without running a risk, you can sign up using a virtual phone number. This way, you can access Lyft service all while still maintaining your privacy and security.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Creating a Lyft Account with a Virtual Phone Number

Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating a Lyft account with a virtual phone number.

1. Choose a Reliable Virtual Phone Number Provider

First and foremost, you need a reliable virtual phone number provider, such as Dialaxy, that allows you to receive SMS (Short Message Service) messages. A trusted provider helps you avoid problems as number bans, delays, or undelivered texts.

2. Obtain a Virtual Number

Now that you’ve chosen a virtual phone number provider, select a US-based phone number that can receive SMS. This is essential as Lyft will send a verification code via text.

3. Register for Lyft Using a Virtual Number

Now, open the Lyft app or go to lyft.com for Lyft registration. Sign up using your virtual phone number. After you receive the verification code, enter it in the app and verify your account. You may also need to fill in some other information to complete Lyft registration.

4. Test Your Account

After the registration is complete, request a test ride using the Lyft app. Check if you got any notifications. If the ride request is unsuccessful, your virtual number might not work with Lyft. You can consider switching the virtual number provider.

Pros and Cons of Using a Virtual Phone Number for Lyft

Now, let’s discuss the pros and cons of using a virtual phone number for Lyft account setup.

Pros of Using a Virtual Phone Number for Lyft

  • Privacy: When you use a virtual number for Lyft registration, it reduces your chance of getting exposed to unsolicited calls and texts from Lyft or other third parties. It saves your data from getting leaked and exposed on the internet.
  • Temporary Use: If you want to use Lyft for a short period of time only, you can use a virtual phone number. If you are traveling or need to use Lyft temporarily, the best thing would be to register with a virtual number.
  • Flexibility: A virtual number ensures flexibility. You can use a different set of numbers for your private and professional life. You can use distinct lines for different ride-sharing apps, too.

Cons of Using a Virtual Phone Number for Lyft

A virtual phone number might seem to have all the pros, but there are its downsides too. Below are a few cons of using a virtual phone number.

  • Security Concerns: In case you lose access to the virtual number, it will be difficult to recover your Lyft account. Also, if Lyft ever marks your number as suspicious, this will affect your app’s usability.
  • Possibility of Limited Features: It is not guaranteed that all virtual numbers support every single feature of Lyft. Some services may not support SMS features or two-factor authentication. This will limit you from using Lyft smoothly.
  • Temporary Number Issues: If you are thinking long-term, virtual or temporary numbers may not be suitable due to their unreliability. These numbers have expiry dates, and you may not be able to access your Lyft account when you lose access to the number.

What To Do If You Lose Access to Your Phone Number on Lyft?

Lost access to your phone number on Lyft? The following are some of the things you can do:

Steps to follow if you lose access to your Lyft number

Use Lyft’s Account Recovery Process

Lyft’s account recovery allows you to reclaim access to your account if you lose access to your phone number. Here’s how to do it:

  • Open the Lyft app or access the Lyft website.
  • Check near the sign-in, tap on ‘Forgot your password?’ or ‘Trouble signing in?’
  • Enter your email address, and you will receive the verification link.
  • Next, follow the link to reset your password.
  • Then, you can update or change your phone number.

Update Your Phone Number Using Lyft Support

If the above process does not work, you need to reach out to Lyft support. Here’s what you should do:

  • Open the Lyft app or visit the Lyft website.
  • Navigate to Help or Contact Support.
  • Explain that you have lost access to your phone number.
  • You will need to provide some additional details, such as your account email or ride history, if required.
  • Once your identity is verified, Lyft will assist in updating your number and restoring your account.

Use Email to Recover Your Account

You can use the email address associated with your Lyft account for account recovery. Lyft also verifies the user’s identity based on email.

You get a verification code sent to your email address instead of your phone number. Log in via email and update your phone number.

Regain Access to the Old Phone Number (If Possible)

To regain access to your old phone number, you will need to contact your carrier. Check if it is a SIM issue or if you changed your device.

If you have switched carriers, you may be able to port your old number to your new service provider. This is useful if you use a permanent or personal number and need to retain it.

Prevent Future Issues by Updating Your Number Regularly

You can prevent such issues in the future by following these precautions:

  • Update your number: When you change your number, make sure to update it in your Lyft account immediately.
  • Use a permanent number: Choose a virtual number provider that is trusted and offers long-term stability, such as Google Voice.
  • Set up alternative recovery options: You can also use the email address and two-factor authentication as alternative recovery options.

Conclusion

Lyft is a US-based ride-sharing app that allows you to request a ride with a few taps on your device. To access Lyft service, you need to create a Lyft account.

But you cannot create a Lyft without a phone number. That is where virtual phone numbers come in. You can use a virtual phone number to register with Lyft.

Choose a verified and reliable virtual number provider that facilitates receiving SMS online and offers many other necessary features to use Lyft smoothly.

This allows you to enjoy the Lyft ride while maintaining your privacy and security. To register with Lyft, how about getting a virtual number from Dialaxy? Sign up today!

FAQs

Can I create a Lyft account without a phone number?

No, you need a phone number for Lyft registration. But if you want to bypass this requirement, you can use alternatives such as getting a virtual phone number, a temporary or disposable phone number, or a friend’s or family member’s number.

Is it safe to use a virtual phone number for Lyft?

Yes, using a virtual phone number for Lyft account setup is generally safe. But sometimes, Lyft may block your virtual phone number due to misuse or fraud. Make sure you use a trusted virtual number provider.

Will Lyft send me ride-related notifications to my virtual number?

Yes. Lyft will send you all the ride-related notifications to your virtual number, such as ride confirmations, driver details, location, price, and so on. If you use a temporary number, you might lose access to the notifications once the number expires.

What should I do if I lose access to the phone number linked to my Lyft account?

If you lose access to the phone number linked to your Lyft account, you can update or change your number. If you cannot access your account, you can contact Lyft support for assistance or use email verifications.

Can I use a virtual phone number for Lyft when traveling internationally?

Yes, you can. If your virtual phone number provider works internationally and supports receiving SMS online, you will have access to Lyft.

Prasanta Raut

Prasanta, founder and CEO of Dialaxy, is redefining SaaS with creativity and dedication. Focused on simplifying sales and support, he drives innovation to deliver exceptional value and shape a new era of business excellence.

Prasanta, founder and CEO of Dialaxy, is redefining SaaS with creativity and dedication. Focused on simplifying sales and support, he drives innovation to deliver exceptional value and shape a new era of business excellence.