Uber Driver Requirements in London, Ontario: The Complete 2025 Guide to Getting Started and Succeeding

Driving for Uber in London, Ontario, is more than just a side hustle; it's a flexible pathway to financial freedom for thousands of Canadians. With minimal startup costs and no office to report to, Uber offers a dynamic earning opportunity ideal for students, gig workers, part-timers, and anyone looking to monetize their time on their own terms. But before you're picking up passengers or delivering food, you need to navigate Uber's specific requirements—and London's municipal licensing laws.

This definitive guide unpacks every step of the process in granular detail, ensuring you don’t just get approved, but do so efficiently and compliantly. By the end, you’ll know everything from how to pass the background check to where to get your car inspected, how much you’ll spend, what the City of London expects, and exactly what your day-to-day as a driver may look like.

Let’s get started.

Why Drive with Uber in London, Ontario?

London, Ontario, is a mid-sized city with a rapidly growing population, anchored by post-secondary institutions like Western University and Fanshawe College. With a bustling downtown, suburban sprawl, and events like Western Fair and Ribfest, there’s consistent demand for rideshare services.

Why Uber is popular in London:

• No mandatory taxi plate system

• Flexibility to drive any time

• Higher demand around school terms, nights, and weekends

• Uber Eats integration for added earnings

• Lower competition compared to Toronto or Ottawa

Whether you want to work 5 or 50 hours a week, Uber lets you create your own schedule while earning based on your effort and availability.

Uber Driver Eligibility Requirements in London, Ontario

1. Age

You must be 21 years or older to drive with Uber in Ontario. This is a firm requirement.

2. Driver’s Licence

• You must hold a valid Ontario G licence (G1 or G2 is not accepted)

• Minimum 3 years of driving experience

If you moved to Ontario recently, you may need to provide proof of prior driving experience from another province or country.

3. Legal Work Status

Uber requires drivers to be eligible to work in Canada. Accepted documentation includes:

• Canadian Passport

• Canadian Birth Certificate

• Permanent Resident Card

• Canadian Citizenship Certificate

• Open Work Permit

Upload a clear photo of this document during sign-up.

4. Smartphone Compatibility

You need a smartphone (Android or iOS) with:

• A data plan

• GPS location enabled

• Uber Driver app installed

Uber Vehicle Requirements in London, Ontario

Uber maintains high standards for vehicle safety and passenger comfort. Here’s what’s allowed (and what’s not).

1. Vehicle Age

• Must be 2015 or newer (as of 2025)

• If your vehicle is borderline (e.g., a 2014 model), it will be rejected

2. Vehicle Type

• 4-door cars only

• Must accommodate a driver + 4 passengers

• Sedans, SUVs, and crossovers are acceptable

• No taxis, pickups, vans, two-door cars, or commercial vehicles

3. Condition Requirements

• No major body damage

• No missing parts (mirrors, trim, etc.)

• Functional seatbelts and windows

• No commercial signage or branding

4. Registration

• Ontario vehicle registration is mandatory

• Can be in your name or someone else’s (if you're listed as a driver on insurance)

5. Insurance Requirements

• Must be personal auto insurance with your name on the policy

• Rideshare-specific insurance is not mandatory but strongly encouraged

• Uber provides commercial insurance while you are online and active

6. Vehicle Inspection

• You must pass a Safety Standards Certificate (SSC) inspection

• Conducted at an MTO-licensed mechanic

• Valid for 1 year

• Cost: $80 - $120

7. Uber Decal

Once approved, Uber will mail you a decal that must be placed on your windshield whenever you’re online.

Uber Background Check Process in Detail

Uber contracts third-party background check companies such as Triton or ISB Canada.

What It Includes:

• Criminal record check (Canada-wide)

• Driver's Abstract (driving history)

Criteria:

• No recent criminal convictions

• No DUI, dangerous driving, or assault charges

• No licence suspensions in the last 3 years

• Fewer than 3 minor infractions

• Fewer than 8 demerit points

How It Works:

1. You receive an email link to complete your background check

2. Upload 2 pieces of ID

3. Consent to checks

4. Wait 3–10 business days

5. If flagged, Uber may request a Vulnerable Sector Check (VSC) or fingerprinting

What to Do If You're Flagged:

• Book a VSC through London Police Services or the Commissionaires

• Fingerprinting may cost ~$50

• Submit documentation directly to Uber via the app or email

City of London Licensing Requirements

Unlike traditional taxi operators, Uber drivers do not need to apply personally to the City of London. Uber submits all your documents on your behalf.

What Uber Sends to the City:

• Your personal info

• Criminal and driver background check

• Vehicle inspection documents

City of London Fees:

Type	Fee
Driver Licence	~$62/year or ~$120/2 years
Trip Surcharge	$0.45 per ride (deducted automatically)

Uber deducts and remits these fees on your behalf.

Step-by-Step Uber Driver Sign-Up Process

Step 1: Create an Account

• Visit: https://www.uber.com/ca/en/drive/london-on-ca

• Click “Sign Up to Drive”

• Enter your name, email, and mobile number

Step 2: Upload Required Documents

• G Licence (front and back)

• Vehicle registration

• Personal auto insurance

• Proof of work eligibility

• Safety Standards Certificate (SSC)

Step 3: Consent to Background Check

• Watch for the email link from Triton or ISB

• Upload IDs and sign consent forms

Step 4: Complete Vehicle Inspection

• Get a Safety Standards Certificate from a licensed mechanic

• Upload the SSC in the Uber Driver app

Step 5: Wait for Uber Review & City Approval

• Uber verifies all documents

• City of London processes licence in 2–3 days

Step 6: Activation

• Once approved, you’ll be notified

• Receive your Uber decal in the mail

• Tap “Go Online” to start accepting trips

What If You Don’t Own a Car?

Not having a car doesn't disqualify you. Here are your options:

Option 1: Rent via Uber Marketplace

• Uber partners with Hertz, Avis, and Budget

• Rentals come Uber-approved and pre-inspected

• Weekly rate: ~$400–$500 (includes insurance and maintenance)

Option 2: Rent via Turo

• Peer-to-peer rental platform

• Must ensure:

  • Commercial use is allowed

  • Vehicle passes inspection

  • You upload all documents manually

Option 3: Borrow a Vehicle

• Use a friend or family member’s car

• You must be added to their insurance policy

• Registration and insurance must be uploaded in the app

How Long Does It Take to Become an Uber Driver?

Task	Time
Account Creation	Immediate
Document Upload	1 day
Background Check	3–10 days
Inspection & SSC	1 day
City Licence Approval	1–3 days
Total Estimated Time	5–14 days

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Mistake	Fix
Blurry document uploads	Use scanner apps or high-res camera
Expired insurance or registration	Double-check expiry dates before upload
Missed email from background checker	Check spam/junk folders
Using a car over 10 years old	Verify VIN and model year before signing up

Earnings Expectations and Expenses

Item	Estimated Cost
Weekly Gas	$80–$150
Weekly Uber Rental (optional)	$400–$500
Inspection (annual)	$80–120
Background Check (if VSC required)	$50
Uber Decal	Free (mailed to you)

Uber drivers in London typically earn $20–25/hour gross, but actual take-home pay depends on hours, expenses, and tips.

FAQs

Can I drive Uber part-time?

Yes. Many drivers in London drive only on weekends or evenings.

What if I only want to deliver food (Uber Eats)?

You can sign up as a delivery-only driver. Requirements are slightly lower (age 18+, any 2-door or 4-door vehicle, or even bike).

Can I drive a leased car?

Yes, but your name must be on the lease and insurance policy.

Do I need special insurance?

Not necessarily, but it’s advised. Check with providers like Intact or Economical who offer rideshare coverage.

Final Thoughts

Driving for Uber in London, Ontario, is a lucrative and flexible opportunity if approached the right way. But preparation is key. From passing background checks to ensuring your car meets Uber and city standards, there are crucial steps to follow that can mean the difference between a smooth application and endless delays.

If you're looking for freedom, flexible income, and a straightforward way to start earning, becoming an Uber driver in London might be the right road for you.

Start your engine. Your next opportunity is waiting.

Drive safe and smart.