Uber Driver Requirements Windsor Ontario: The Ultimate 2025 Guide to Driving with Uber in Windsor

Ridesharing has revolutionized urban transportation, and Windsor, Ontario, is no exception. With growing demand from both residents and tourists, Uber offers an appealing opportunity to earn income on your schedule. Whether you're considering becoming a part-time driver to make extra cash or a full-time rideshare professional, understanding the Uber driver requirements in Windsor is critical to getting started—and succeeding.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know: eligibility criteria, vehicle requirements, background checks, inspection standards, rental car options (if you don’t own a car), earnings potential, and tips to optimize your Uber journey in Windsor, Ontario.

Why Drive for Uber in Windsor?

Windsor may not be as busy as Toronto or Ottawa, but it still presents unique opportunities for Uber drivers:

• Border proximity: Windsor’s location next to Detroit brings in cross-border travelers, tourists, and truckers.

• Student population: The University of Windsor and St. Clair College contribute to regular ride requests, especially on weekends and during school seasons.

• Hospitality and nightlife: From Caesar’s Windsor Casino to popular downtown bars, Windsor keeps drivers busy in the evenings.

General Uber Driver Requirements in Windsor, Ontario

To become an Uber driver in Windsor, you must meet several criteria related to your age, licensing, driving experience, and legal eligibility.

Age & Licensing

• Minimum age: You must be at least 21 years old for rideshare (UberX) or 19+ for Uber Eats.

• Driver’s license: You must hold a valid Ontario G driver’s license (not G2).

• Driving experience: At least 1 year of licensed driving experience in Canada.

Legal Work Eligibility

You need proof of legal work eligibility in Canada, such as:

• Canadian passport

• Birth certificate

• Permanent Resident card

• Work permit or study permit with work authorization

• Canadian citizenship certificate

Required Documents

• Ontario G driver’s license

• Proof of vehicle insurance (your name must appear on the policy)

• Proof of vehicle registration

• Safety Standards Certificate (annual inspection)

• Background check clearance

• Vulnerable Sector Check clearance

Background Check Requirements

Before you can start driving, you must undergo a rigorous background screening that includes:

Criminal Background Check

Uber works with Triton or Checkr in Canada to perform this check. They screen for:

• Criminal charges or convictions

• Sexual offenses

• Drug-related offenses

• Assault or violent crimes

• Any pending criminal cases

Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) Check

This report evaluates your driving history and flags:

• Recent traffic violations

• Suspensions or revocations

• DUI or impaired driving history

• Accumulation of demerit points

Vulnerable Sector Check (VSC)

The VSC is mandatory for rideshare drivers. It ensures you're eligible to transport passengers, including minors or vulnerable persons. Key details:

• Must be issued by local police (e.g., Windsor Police Service)

• Requires fingerprinting if there's a record match

• Upload clear scans (front and back) to your Uber driver profile

• Valid for 1 year

💡 Tip: Go directly to the Windsor Police or another authorized provider for the VSC to avoid delays from automated checks.

Vehicle Requirements in Windsor

If you plan to use your own vehicle for Uber in Windsor, it must meet specific standards. Here's what you need to qualify:

Basic Requirements

• Model year: Must be 2013 or newer (as of 2025)

• Doors: Must have 4 doors

• Passenger capacity: Must seat at least 4 passengers, excluding the driver

• Condition: No cosmetic damage, dents, rust, or aftermarket modifications

• Ownership: You must be listed as the registered owner, or have written permission (if using someone else’s car)

Insurance

• Must be personal auto insurance

• You must be listed as a named insured driver

• Uber will provide additional commercial coverage while you are online

Safety Standards Certificate (Inspection)

• Must be issued by a licensed DriveON or MTO-certified inspection station

• Must be renewed every 12 months

• Upload the certificate to your Uber profile

• Cost: Typically $80–$175 depending on the shop

Vehicle Inspection in Windsor: What You Need to Know

Where to Get Inspected

Some certified inspection shops in Windsor include:

• Redline Autohaus

• Macdonald’s Automotive

• Scott’s Auto Works

• Firestone (Ouellette and Giles)

What They Check

The inspection includes:

• Brakes

• Tires

• Headlights and turn signals

• Suspension

• Exhaust

• Seatbelts

• Windshield wipers

• Horn

• Emissions (if required)

Pro Tip: Mention you're driving for Uber—some shops offer “Uber-friendly” rates or digital reports compatible with Uber’s system.

Don’t Have a Car? No Problem

If you don't own a vehicle, you still have options:

Option 1: Uber Rent (In-App)

• Access Uber-approved rental partners like Budget, Hertz, and Avis

• Book directly in the Uber app under "Rent a Car"

• Includes insurance

• Available for daily or weekly rentals

Option 2: Turo (Peer-to-Peer Rentals)

• Rent a vehicle from a local car owner

• Choose from a wide range of cars (often cheaper than traditional rentals)

• Must manually upload insurance and vehicle documents to Uber

Option 3: Rideshare Vehicle Providers

Local providers offer cars specifically for Uber/Lyft:

• Ford Expressway (Ontario) – Offers weekly rentals starting at $249

• Insurance and Uber-approved inspection included

• Some providers allow installment payments

💡 Caution: You cannot use a regular rental car unless it’s from an Uber-approved partner. Insurance coverage must match Uber's standards.

Earnings Potential in Windsor

What can you expect to earn driving Uber in Windsor?

Average Income

• Part-time drivers (10–15 hours/week): $150–$350/week

• Full-time drivers (30–40 hours/week): $600–$1,000/week

• After expenses (fuel, maintenance, rental): $12–$20/hour net

Factors That Affect Earnings

• Time of day: Nights and weekends pay more

• Location: Downtown, university areas, and border crossings are busiest

• Events: Concerts, sports games, and casino traffic = more tips

• Tips: 100% of tips go directly to the driver

How to Apply: Step-by-Step Process

1. Download the Uber Driver app

2. Create an account and upload:

   • Driver’s license

   • Vehicle insurance

   • Vehicle registration

   • Safety inspection certificate

   • Proof of eligibility to work

3. Complete the background check

4. Upload VSC results

5. Wait for approval (can take 3–10 business days)

Tips for New Uber Drivers in Windsor

Know Your Hotspots

• University of Windsor

• Downtown nightlife (Ouellette Ave.)

• Devonshire Mall

• Ambassador Bridge area

• Caesars Windsor Casino

Drive Smart

• Use destination filters to avoid dead miles

• Accept multiple ride types (UberX, Eats, etc.)

• Take advantage of surge pricing during busy times

Track Expenses

• Use an app like Stride or Everlance to track fuel, maintenance, and insurance

• Keep receipts for tax deductions

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I drive part-time?

Yes! Uber allows complete schedule flexibility.

Do I need commercial insurance?

No. Uber provides commercial coverage while you’re online. You only need regular insurance with your name listed.

Can I use someone else’s car?

Yes, if your name is on the insurance and you have permission.

What if I fail the background check?

Uber may allow you to resubmit documents or get fingerprint clearance via local police.

Conclusion: Should You Become an Uber Driver in Windsor?

Driving for Uber in Windsor offers flexibility, convenience, and a steady opportunity to earn. While it's not the most high-traffic market in Canada, smart drivers who understand the system can still make decent money—especially when combining UberX and Uber Eats.

By meeting all the Uber driver requirements in Windsor, Ontario, staying compliant with inspections, and taking advantage of surge times, you can unlock solid earning potential while working on your own terms.

Ready to get started? Download the Uber Driver app, collect your documents, and begin your Windsor rideshare journey today.