UberPASSPORT offers one-way ride from San Diego to Mexico

SAN DIEGO, Calif. -- Uber has launched is first cross-border service which offers passengers one-way transportation from San Diego to Tijuana and surrounding areas.

The popular ride-hailing service says UberPASSPORT is "a new way to foster cross-border business opportunities by facilitating accessible and reliable transportation."

Officials say they chose San Diego and Tijuana to launch UberPASSPORT because they're sister communities whose family, culture and economies are closely linked.

"We recognize the important of the largest border crossing in the world and the unique relationship between San Diego and Tijuana," Uber said in a blog post.

San Diego Mayor Kevin Faulconer hailed Uber's decision.

"UberPASSPORT highlights the best of what San Diego has to offer by using one the world's most innovative apps to bridge countries, businesses and families in a way that has never been done before," Faulconer said.

Such an Uber trip begins with a $4 base rate, and then costs 30 cents per minute and $2.35 per mile. That does not include the border-crossing fee of $20. Fares can be split between up to four passengers.

Uber says a ride from Pacific Beach to Rosarito would cost $160, while a ride from downtown San Diego to the Tijuana International Airport would cost $100.

While Uber doesn't offer return trips to San Diego, those visiting Tijuana can use Uber to get a ride to the international border, where people can walk across into the U.S.

Riders must have all required documentation to cross back into the U.S.