Uber Background Check Montreal: Everything You Need to Know (2025 Guide)

Are you thinking of becoming an Uber driver in Montreal? Whether you’re looking to drive full-time or earn extra income on the side, Uber offers a flexible way to make money. But before you can get behind the wheel, there's one major hurdle to clear—the Uber background check.

Now, don’t worry. This isn’t some top-secret government clearance. But it is a serious process, and getting it right can mean the difference between driving for Uber in a few days… or waiting weeks—or even months. In this detailed, easy-to-follow, and engaging guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about Uber background checks in Montreal.

Get ready, because we’re diving deep!

Why Uber Background Checks Matter (and Why You Should Care)

Let’s get real—when someone hails an Uber, they’re putting their trust in a total stranger. Uber knows this, and that’s why the company requires every driver to pass a thorough background check. It’s about safety, trust, and responsibility.

In Montreal, this process is even more important because it’s regulated by local authorities and must meet the standards of Quebec’s transportation laws, including the SAAQ (Société de l'assurance automobile du Québec).

Whether you’re a student, a newcomer to Canada, or a retiree looking to stay active, passing this background check is your gateway to joining Uber’s driver network.

What Exactly Is Checked in Montreal?

Uber doesn’t just do a quick scan and give you the green light. There are multiple checks you’ll go through, and each one matters. Let’s break them down.

1. Criminal Record Check

This is the big one. You must not have a criminal history that includes violence, theft, or other serious offenses. The check is:

• Carried out by the SPVM (Service de police de la Ville de Montréal) or Blainville Police.

• Processed by ISB Global, a background screening partner.

• Costs C$80—usually deducted in four C$20 installments from your Uber earnings.

Think of it as Uber’s way of ensuring riders feel safe getting into your car.

2. Driving Record (a.k.a. Your Driver’s Abstract)

Uber wants drivers who are safe, cautious, and not prone to road rage. So you’ll need:

• A clean record from SAAQ.

• No major violations in the last 3 years (e.g., DUI, excessive speeding, suspended license).

3. Chauffeur Permit from SAAQ

This isn’t optional. In Quebec, you need a chauffeur's permit to drive for pay. You’ll:

• Apply through SAAQ.

• Pay around C$27.

• Upload proof in your Uber app.

4. Annual Screening Renewal

Even after you’re approved, Uber doesn’t just forget about you. Every year:

• You’ll redo the criminal check and driving record review.

• The renewal costs another C$80.

• It’s mandatory to keep driving.

The Step-by-Step Process: From Sign-Up to Start Driving

Okay, now for the meat and potatoes—how do you actually complete all this? Here’s the full play-by-play.

Step 1: Sign Up on the Uber Driver App

Download the app, create an account, and start your application. You’ll choose Montreal as your city and start uploading your details.

Step 2: Upload Two Valid IDs

You’ll need:

• A Quebec driver’s license (Class 5 or better).

• A secondary government-issued ID (passport, Medicare card, etc.).

Double check the names match across all documents. No “Jon” on one and “Jonathan” on the other!

Step 3: Start the Criminal Background Check

Uber will direct you to its partner (ISB Global), who will handle the check with SPVM or Blainville Police. You don’t have to go in person—most of this can be done online. Just:

• Upload your documents.

• Pay the fee (C$80, usually deducted later).

• Wait for the result.

Step 4: Get Your Driver’s Abstract

Log into your SAAQ online portal or visit a local SAAQ office to request your driving record.

• There’s usually a small fee (~C$15).

• Upload it to your Uber profile.

Step 5: Apply for Chauffeur Permit

This step trips people up! Head to your local SAAQ office and:

• Apply for the chauffeur permit.

• Pay the C$27.

• Once approved, scan and upload it into the Uber app.

Step 6: Get Your Vehicle Inspected

Uber only allows cars in good mechanical condition. Use an Uber-approved inspection location or a licensed mechanic.

Step 7: Wait for Review

After everything’s submitted, Uber will review your documents. This usually takes:

• 3–5 business days.

• But it can take longer if there are issues (we’ll talk delays soon).

The Dreaded Delay: Why Is My Background Check Taking So Long?

We get it. You did everything right. But now the app says: “Pending Review.” What’s going on?

Here are common reasons your background check might be stuck:

Triton Flag or Vulnerable Sector Check

If the system flags your name as a possible match for someone with a record, you might be asked to do a fingerprint-based check.

• This is called a Vulnerable Sector Check (VSC).

• It can take weeks.

Incomplete or Blurry Documents

If you submitted a photo that’s fuzzy, dark, or cropped, Uber might not accept it.

SPVM or ISB Backlog

Sometimes, the agencies handling your check just get overwhelmed. It happens.

“I waited four months because of a technical issue between Uber and SPVM. It was frustrating but eventually got sorted.” – Real driver on Reddit

Name Mismatch

If your IDs use different names (e.g., maiden vs. married name), that might trigger delays.

How Much Does It All Cost?

Here’s your fee breakdown:

Item	Cost
Criminal Background Check	C$80
Chauffeur Permit (SAAQ)	C$27
Driver’s Abstract (SAAQ)	C$15
Vehicle Inspection	Varies
Annual Renewal	C$80

Estimated first-year cost? Around C$150–C$200.

Avoid These Common Mistakes

Don’t make these rookie errors:

• Submitting expired or mismatched IDs

• Uploading blurry photos

• Waiting too long to follow up

• Ignoring emails from Uber or ISB

• Not applying for your chauffeur permit early

What If You Fail the Background Check?

It’s not the end of the road. Here’s what to do:

Get a Copy of the Report

You have the right to see what flagged you. Contact ISB Global or SPVM.

Dispute Inaccuracies

Maybe it’s a case of mistaken identity. Challenge it with the right documents.

Wait It Out

If you have a past conviction that disqualifies you, you may need to wait a few years before reapplying.

Annual Renewal Process

Every 12 months, you’ll go through:

• A fresh criminal background check (C$80).

• Updated driving abstract from SAAQ.

• Uber auto-initiates this—but make sure your documents are still valid.

If you ignore renewal reminders, Uber can deactivate your account. Don’t let that happen!

Visit the Greenlight Hub in Montreal

Sometimes you need help in person. The Uber Greenlight Hub is your go-to spot.

• Address: 5425 Avenue Casgrain #801, Montréal, QC H2T 1X6

• Hours: Typically Mon–Fri, 10AM to 5PM (check online)

They can assist with:

• Troubleshooting background check delays

• Document uploads

• Fingerprinting guidance

Final Tips to Get Approved Faster

Here’s how to improve your odds:

• Use clear, high-resolution scans/photos of documents.

• Match names across all forms and IDs.

• Start the chauffeur permit process early.

• Check your email and app every day for updates.

• Follow up with support if you see long delays.

Conclusion: You’re Closer Than You Think

Passing the Uber background check in Montreal isn’t impossible—it’s just detailed. If you stay organized, responsive, and proactive, you’ll breeze through it.

Remember, this isn’t just red tape—it’s about ensuring safety for everyone involved.

So get your documents in order, stay persistent, and don’t let a delay throw you off. Your next rider is waiting, and your earnings are just a few steps away.

Now go out there and make it happen. Montreal’s roads are calling!