06:30 AM EDT, 08/28/2024 (MT Newswires) -- Lyft ( LYFT ) on Tuesday said that it is introducing a new rider verification pilot program to help drivers verify riders' identities to improve security measures.

The program has been rolled out in nine cities including Atlanta, Chicago, Denver, Detroit, Houston, Jacksonville, Miami, Phoenix and Seattle.

To verify a rider, the company said it will cross-check personal information, like their legal name and phone number, using trusted, third-party databases. If their information cannot be validated, riders may be asked to upload an ID.

Once verified by Lyft ( LYFT ), riders will be able to see a verification badge next to their profile. Drivers will also be able see the rider's name and verification badge in addition to their rating and photo.

Like riders, drivers will be able to share their location with a friend, connect to live support in the app, and get check-ins if the ride has long stops or route deviations, the company said.

Drivers can still choose to accept rides without badges, however the company warned that these riders may experience longer estimated time of arrival and pickup times.