In Ottawa—the capital of Canada and a government and tourism powerhouse—demand for reliable ride-sharing is high. Whether it's ferrying federal workers, students, or tourists between Parliament Hill and ByWard Market, Uber has cemented itself as a transportation staple. But to become a driver in this market, you need more than just a car—you need to meet strict, city-specific criteria.
This guide cuts through the fluff and delivers exactly what you need to get started driving Uber in Ottawa in 2025: qualifications, documents, steps, and expert tips. If you're serious about hitting the road, read this first.
Why Drive for Uber in Ottawa?
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Reliable Income Source: High government workforce = steady demand.
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Flexible Schedule: Drive anytime. Perfect for students, retirees, or side hustlers.
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Peak Pricing: Government events, protests, and snowstorms spike rider demand.
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No Office, No Boss: You're the one in control.
Eligibility Checklist (Must-Have Qualifications)
To drive Uber in Ottawa in 2025, you must:
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Be 21 years or older
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Have at least 3 years driving experience in Ontario
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Hold a valid Ontario Class G driver's licence (G1 and G2 NOT allowed)
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Be eligible to work in Canada (SIN, PR card, Citizenship or valid Work Permit)
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Own a smartphone (iOS/Android) capable of running the Uber Driver app
Driver’s Licence Rules
Only a Class G full licence issued in Ontario qualifies. G1 or G2 licence holders are immediately disqualified. If you're a new Ontario resident, convert your out-of-province or foreign licence first.
Vehicle Standards & Accepted Models
To qualify:
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Vehicle must be 4-door
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Must be model year 2014 or newer
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Must be in excellent mechanical and cosmetic condition
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No commercial branding, no taxi meters, no damage
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Rebuilt or salvage vehicles are banned
Don’t have a car? You can rent or lease a vehicle through Uber-approved partners like Hertz or HyreCar.
Mandatory Vehicle Inspection (SSC)
Before approval, your vehicle must pass a Ministry of Transportation of Ontario (MTO) Safety Inspection:
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Must be conducted by a licensed mechanic
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Results in a Safety Standards Certificate (SSC)
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SSC must be uploaded within 36 days of issue
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Must be renewed annually
Insurance & Registration Details
Documents required:
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Personal Vehicle Insurance (with your name listed)
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Ontario Vehicle Registration (current and matches vehicle used)
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Uber adds commercial coverage automatically when you’re online, but this does NOT replace your personal insurance.
Background Check + VSC Breakdown
Uber mandates a two-part screening handled by Triton Canada:
Background Check (Annual)
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Checks criminal history & driver record
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Requires G licence and one secondary ID (passport, SIN card, health card, etc.)
Vulnerable Sector Check (One-Time)
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Required for rideshare drivers transporting the general public
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Can be done online via Triton or in person at Ottawa Police
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Upload front and back of the certificate in high resolution
Approval delays are common—always upload documents clearly and early.
Upload Checklist: Every Required Document
Here’s exactly what Uber Ottawa will ask for:
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Ontario Class G Driver’s Licence
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Work Eligibility Proof (PR card, SIN, Work Permit)
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Vehicle Registration (must match the vehicle used)
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Vehicle Insurance (your name must appear)
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SSC (Safety Standards Certificate)
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VSC (front and back, legible)
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Vehicle Photos: exterior (front/back) + clean interior
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Profile Photo (plain background, well-lit, no hat/sunglasses)
How to Sign Up for Uber in Ottawa (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Start Registration
Visit Uber Ottawa Sign-Up and enter your full name, email, and phone number.
Step 2: Add Personal Info
Submit your Ontario G licence, SIN or Work Permit, and proof of residence.
Step 3: Start Background Check
You’ll get a link from Triton Canada. Upload your IDs and consent to screening.
Step 4: Complete VSC
Submit Vulnerable Sector Check either online or at a local police station. Upload both sides.
Step 5: Upload Documents
Upload all required docs (see Section 8). Make sure images are high-res, uncropped, and show all corners.
Step 6: Vehicle Inspection
Get your SSC from a certified mechanic. Upload immediately.
Step 7: Receive Uber Decal
Uber mails a window decal. Stick it on the lower-right windshield (passenger side).
Step 8: Get Approved & Go Live
You’ll get an approval email or app notification. Open the app, go online, and start accepting trips.
Uber Decal Placement Rules
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Must be displayed whenever you’re online
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Place it on the front windshield, lower passenger side corner
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Failing to display can result in citations or account suspension
Uber Premier Ottawa: Luxury Driver Tier
To join Uber Premier:
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Car must be 2019 or newer
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Must be luxury models: BMW, Lexus, Audi, Tesla
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Leather interior required
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Driver rating must be 4.85+
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You must have completed 500+ trips
Real Earnings Potential in 2025
Driving Time | Estimated Gross Income |
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1 hour | $20–$30 |
8 hours | $160–$240 |
5 days/week | $800–$1200 |
Full month | $3200–$4800+ |
Peak earnings occur during weekends, holidays, and downtown events.
Common Mistakes That Get You Rejected
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Uploading blurry or cropped documents
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Expired SSC or insurance
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Name mismatch on registration or insurance
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Incomplete background check due to missing secondary ID
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Skipping the Uber decal
Uber Support Access in Ottawa
Need help? Here’s how to get it:
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In-App Support: Tap Help in your Driver app
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Online Portal: Visit Uber Help
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Triton Canada: For background/VSC delays
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Pop-Up Greenlight Hubs: Announced in-app occasionally for Ottawa drivers
FAQs
Q: Can I drive part-time?
Yes. You control your hours—drive weekends, evenings, or full-time.
Q: Can I use a rental vehicle?
Yes, through approved Uber partners like Hertz or HyreCar.
Q: How long does sign-up take?
Anywhere from 3 days to 3 weeks, depending on screening and document review.
Q: Can I drive in Gatineau too?
No. Quebec has separate licensing rules. You must apply separately there.
Final Thoughts
Driving for Uber in Ottawa is a practical and flexible way to earn money, whether you're looking for full-time work or a reliable side gig. However, success depends entirely on getting your paperwork right, meeting all requirements, and following Uber’s rules to the letter.
The sign-up process is straightforward—but sharp attention to detail is what gets you approved fast.
Start now: Sign up to drive in Ottawa and take the first step toward flexible income on your schedule.
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