You can take an Uber again -- but you have to wear a mask and roll the windows down

As some coronavirus restrictions weaken across the United States, Uber is no longer urging its rider to stay home. It is, however, implementing several new protocols for patrons.

Uber will require all of its riders to wear masks, just as it does its drivers, the company announced Wednesday. The new mask requirement is among the new rules for riders that will go into effect Monday and last through at least the end of June.

“Before every trip, riders must confirm that they’ve taken precautions like wearing a face cover and washing or sanitizing their hands,” Uber said. “They must also agree to sit in the back seat and open windows for ventilation. We’re also reducing the maximum suggested number of passengers for an UberX ride to three from four.”

Drivers will be allowed to cancel a trip without a penalty if a rider is not wearing a mask, Uber said. But riders also have the option of canceling their trip without a fine if their driver is maskless.

If any patrons or Uber drivers repeatedly violate the mask policies, they could lose access to the service, Uber said. The new mask protocols are for all of the U.S., as well as Canada, India and a majority of Europe and Latin America.

Uber has allocated $50 million to purchase masks, disinfectant sprays and wipes, hand sanitizers and gloves for its drivers. It has secured 23 million masks, the company said Wednesday.

“Moving forward, we’ll continue to source and ship supplies to drivers and delivery people, doing our part to help make sure vehicles are cleaned regularly and riders have access to sanitizing supplies in the car,” Uber announced.

Lyft announced last week it would also require face masks for drivers and riders. The ride-sharing service said riders and drivers must confirm they do not have COVID-19 or related symptoms, will keep vehicles clean and the windows open.