How do I open google maps?

Find the Google Maps icon on your phone (a map pin on a green, yellow, and blue map) and tap to open it.

How do I search for your destination?

Tap the search bar at the top and type an address, business name, or landmark. Tap the correct result from the suggestions.

How do I tap directions?

On the location card that appears, tap the blue "Directions" button. Choose your travel mode: car, transit, walking, or biking.

How do I review the route?

The map shows your route with the estimated travel time. If there are multiple route options, tap the different paths to compare.

How do I start navigation?

Tap "Start" to begin turn-by-turn directions. Follow the voice instructions. Keep your phone mounted on your dashboard or in a holder for safe driving.

How do I end navigation?

When you arrive, navigation ends automatically. To stop early, tap the screen, then tap the X or "Exit" button.

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Google Maps is a free navigation app that gives you turn-by-turn directions to any address, business, or landmark. It works for driving, walking, biking, and public transit. If you have a smartphone, Google Maps can replace a standalone GPS device.

Google Maps comes pre-installed on most Android phones. On iPhone, download it free from the App Store if it is not already on your phone. The app uses your phone's GPS to know where you are, so make sure Location Services are turned on.

To get directions, open Google Maps and tap the search bar at the top. Type where you want to go — an address, a business name, a city, or a landmark. Tap the result and then tap "Directions." The app shows your route on a map. At the top, you will see icons for different travel modes: car, transit, walking, and biking. Tap the one you want.

For driving directions, tap "Start" to begin navigation. Your phone gives voice instructions ("In 500 feet, turn right on Main Street") and shows a moving map. The app updates in real time based on traffic conditions and can reroute you if there is a traffic jam or accident ahead.

A few helpful features: if you search for a business (like "coffee shop" or "gas station"), Google Maps shows nearby options with ratings, hours, and phone numbers. You can save your Home and Work addresses in the app so getting directions is quicker. You can also share your location with someone in real time by tapping the blue dot (your location) and selecting "Share your location."

To stop navigation, tap the X or the arrow in the bottom-left corner and tap "Exit navigation."

Google Maps also works offline — handy for areas with poor cell service. Before your trip, search for the area, tap your profile icon, tap "Offline maps," and download the region you need.