Uber is among the most popular transportation solutions in the world. After all, it’s the most popular rideshare service in the world with tens of millions of trips per day. Uber is also a readily available way home for patrons after a night of drinking. However, just because a rideshare can get you home after a night out, doesn’t mean you can drink in an Uber.  

While you can drink in a limo or private bus under most circumstances, an Uber simply isn’t the same

While some states place drinking in a cab in a gray area, Uber’s policy on the subject is straightforward. According to the popular Transportation Network Company (TNC), alcohol and drugs are strictly forbidden in the platform’s driver vehicles. “Never bring illegal drugs or open containers of alcohol into a car,” says the company’s Community Guidelines page. In fact, violating the company’s policy can result in account deactivation. No more Uber rides for you.

What’s more, while Mississippi doesn’t have an explicit open container law, the majority of the United States prohibits drivers and passengers from being in a car with an open alcoholic beverage. The most common exceptions to the rule are for-hire commercial vehicles. For instance, in most US cities, you can drink in a private bus or a limousine. However, an Uber isn’t the same as a limousine with a bar and divider. 

It’s not just to avoid breaking the law, either. The company reminds riders that they should never ride with intoxicated drivers. “If you have reason to believe your driver may be under the influence of drugs or alcohol, ask the driver to end the trip immediately.” Of course, passengers should then call the authorities and report the driver to Uber.

Still, Uber isn’t the only name in the rideshare game. While considerably less popular than Uber, Lyft operates in all 50 U.S. states. However, like Uber, Lyft’s policy restricts open containers and drinking in one of the platform’s vehicles.