Toronto, Canada’s largest city, is a thriving metropolis where rideshare services like Uber are in constant demand. Whether you're a student looking for part-time work, a newcomer seeking flexible employment, or a seasoned driver wanting to increase your income, becoming an Uber driver in Toronto can be a smart move. But before you can start driving, there are specific requirements you must meet.
This in-depth guide will explore every aspect of Uber driver requirements in Toronto—from basic qualifications and vehicle standards to background checks and onboarding steps. Whether you're just curious or ready to hit the road, this article will arm you with all the information you need to drive for Uber in Toronto legally and profitably.
1. Overview: Driving for Uber in Toronto
Driving for Uber in Toronto isn’t just about having a car and a license. Toronto is regulated under strict municipal bylaws and provincial transportation standards. As part of the City of Toronto’s regulations for Private Transportation Companies (PTCs), all Uber drivers must comply with local licensing and safety rules.
Uber offers several types of ride services in Toronto:
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UberX: Affordable everyday rides.
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Uber Comfort: Newer vehicles with extra legroom.
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UberXL: For groups of up to 6.
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Uber Green: Electric and hybrid rides.
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Uber Black/SUV: High-end, luxury services (requires commercial license and livery-class vehicle).
While this guide focuses on UberX, many of the requirements also apply across other Uber services.
2. Basic Eligibility Requirements
Before you begin the application process, you must meet Uber’s basic criteria:
Age Requirement
You must be at least 25 years old to drive for Uber in Toronto. Unlike some cities where 21 is acceptable, Toronto has stricter regulations for minimum age.
Driver’s License
You must have:
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A valid Ontario G driver’s license (not G1 or G2).
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At least one year of Canadian driving experience (in Ontario or another province/territory).
Proof of Work Eligibility
You must provide:
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Canadian citizenship, permanent residency, or a valid work permit.
Smartphone
You must have a smartphone capable of running the Uber Driver app (iOS or Android).
3. Required Documents
To drive for Uber in Toronto, you’ll need to submit clear photos of the following documents via the Uber driver portal:
A. Ontario Driver’s License
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Must be a Class G license or higher.
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Must not be expired or suspended.
B. Vehicle Insurance
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You must provide a personal vehicle insurance policy in your name.
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The vehicle must be registered in Ontario.
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Uber provides commercial insurance coverage while you're actively using the app (i.e., on a trip or en route to a pickup).
C. Vehicle Registration
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A copy of the Ontario vehicle registration (ownership slip).
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The name on the registration must match your name (or be jointly owned).
D. Proof of Work Eligibility
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Passport, PR card, or valid work permit with SIN.
E. Proof of Residency in Ontario
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A utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement showing your current Toronto address.
4. Vehicle Requirements
Your vehicle must meet Uber's minimum standards for safety, age, condition, and passenger capacity.
Vehicle Age
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Your car must be 10 years old or newer (as of 2025, this means 2015 or newer).
Vehicle Type
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Must be a 4-door car in good condition.
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No salvaged or rebuilt titles.
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No commercial branding, taxi-style decals, or police-style lights.
Mechanical Inspection
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You must obtain a Safety Standards Certificate (SSC) from a licensed mechanic.
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Inspection must be renewed annually.
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Uber may request re-inspection after complaints or incidents.
Additional Requirements
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Air conditioning and seat belts for all passengers.
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No cosmetic damage or mechanical issues.
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Must be free of significant odors, including smoke or strong scents.
5. Background Checks
Safety is Uber’s top priority. Before you’re allowed to drive in Toronto, Uber will run a comprehensive background check through an accredited third-party service.
A. Criminal Background Check
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You must not have any major criminal convictions.
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Uber uses Triton Canada to process police record checks.
B. Driving Record (MVR Check)
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You must have a clean or near-clean driving record.
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Excessive speeding tickets, license suspensions, or DUI violations may result in disqualification.
C. Vulnerable Sector Check (City Requirement)
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Toronto requires a Vulnerable Sector Screening (VSS) for anyone working in roles of trust.
6. City of Toronto Licensing Requirements
To legally operate as an Uber driver in Toronto, you must obtain a Vehicle-for-Hire Driver Licence from the City of Toronto.
How to Apply:
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Visit the City of Toronto’s licensing portal.
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Submit:
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Driver’s license
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Vehicle ownership
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Insurance
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VSS
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Pay the application fee (approx. $15 to $50).
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You’ll receive an electronic confirmation once approved.
Uber cannot approve you to drive until this municipal licensing is completed.
7. Steps to Sign Up as an Uber Driver in Toronto
Here's a step-by-step breakdown:
Step 1: Create an Uber Driver Account
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Visit: https://drivers.uber.com
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Fill in your name, email, city (Toronto), and create a password.
Step 2: Upload Required Documents
Submit:
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Driver’s license
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Vehicle registration and insurance
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SSC certificate
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Proof of residency and work eligibility
Step 3: Consent to Background Check
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Uber will send a link to authorize the check via Triton Canada.
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Complete both the criminal and driving record checks.
Step 4: Get Your Vehicle-For-Hire Licence from Toronto
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Upload the approval to Uber.
Step 5: Activate Your Account
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Once Uber reviews your application and everything checks out, your account will be activated.
8. Vehicle Options if You Don’t Own a Car
Uber partners with local rental and leasing companies for drivers who don’t own a qualifying vehicle.
Popular Options:
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HyreCar
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Rideshare Rental Canada
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Uber’s Vehicle Marketplace
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Karma Auto Rentals (Toronto)
Ensure any rental vehicle meets all Uber and City of Toronto standards.
9. Insurance: Understanding Uber's Coverage
A. When You’re Not Using the App
Your personal insurance is active.
B. When You’re Online, Waiting for a Ride
Uber provides contingent liability insurance, which only kicks in if your personal policy denies the claim.
C. During a Trip
Uber’s commercial insurance includes:
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$2 million third-party liability
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Accident benefits
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Collision and comprehensive (with a deductible)
Uber also offers optional injury protection for drivers.
10. How Much Can You Earn as an Uber Driver in Toronto?
Earnings vary based on time of day, location, vehicle type, and service level.
Estimated Average:
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UberX: $18–$30/hour (gross)
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Uber Comfort/XL: $25–$40/hour
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Uber Black/SUV: $50–$70/hour (with luxury vehicle)
Deductions include:
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Gas
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Insurance
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Maintenance
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Taxes
Tip: Track all expenses for tax deductions.
11. Taxes and Business Registration
A. Register as a Sole Proprietor (Optional but Recommended)
If you earn more than $30,000 annually, you must:
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Register for a GST/HST number.
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Collect and remit 13% HST on all rides.
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File HST returns quarterly or annually.
B. Income Tax
Uber does not deduct taxes, so drivers are responsible for:
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Filing self-employment taxes
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Paying CPP contributions
Use software like QuickBooks Self-Employed or consult a tax professional.
12. Tips to Maximize Success as an Uber Driver
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Drive during peak times: weekday mornings, Friday/Saturday nights, holidays.
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Use multiple apps: Uber, Lyft, SkipTheDishes (multi-apping).
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Keep your car clean and maintained.
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Maintain a high driver rating (above 4.85 recommended).
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Provide amenities: phone charger, bottled water, tissues.
13. Common Rejection Reasons and How to Avoid Them
Reason | Solution |
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Incomplete background check | Follow up with Triton |
Vehicle too old or damaged | Lease or rent a newer model |
Insurance mismatch | Ensure policy is personal and in your name |
Failed vehicle inspection | Fix issues and re-inspect |
Failed City of Toronto application | Double-check submitted documents and reapply |
14. Final Thoughts
Becoming an Uber driver in Toronto is a rewarding opportunity, but it requires preparation, compliance, and a professional attitude. By meeting all the necessary Uber driver requirements and Toronto city regulations, you’ll be positioned to hit the road confidently and start earning.
Uber continues to be one of the most flexible ways to earn income in Toronto’s gig economy. Whether you’re driving full-time or part-time, it’s crucial to treat the process seriously, stay informed on changes to city bylaws, and prioritize passenger safety and satisfaction.
Ready to start driving? Visit Uber Toronto Sign Up to get rolling today.
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