Montreal, Canada’s second-largest city, is known for its vibrant culture, cosmopolitan atmosphere, and heavy traffic. In this dynamic cityscape, UberX has established itself as one of the most convenient and budget-friendly transportation options for locals and tourists alike. As of 2025, UberX remains a top choice among ride-hailing services due to its affordability, flexibility, and user-friendly app experience.
This blog post will guide you through everything you need to know about UberX in Montreal—from how it works, fare structures, airport rides, and driver requirements to user tips and how it compares to traditional taxis and alternatives.
What is UberX?
UberX is Uber’s most widely used and budget-friendly ride option. It provides private rides for up to four passengers in a standard vehicle. Unlike UberXL or Comfort, UberX vehicles are typically sedans or compact cars that meet Uber’s minimum requirements but don’t necessarily offer luxury features.
Key Features of UberX:
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Affordable pricing compared to traditional taxis
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On-demand or scheduled rides
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Private ride with no carpooling (except UberX Share)
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App-based pickup, drop-off, and payment
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Up to 4 passengers
In Montreal, UberX is a go-to option for everyday commuting, late-night travel, or getting to and from the airport.
The State of Ride-Sharing in Montreal
Montreal’s ride-hailing ecosystem has evolved significantly in the past decade. While taxis once dominated the market, Uber and other platforms have transformed urban mobility.
Key Stats:
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Uber launched in Montreal in 2014.
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By 2022, over 22,000 ride-share drivers were registered in Quebec.
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Uber faces local regulation by the Bureau du taxi de Montréal.
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UberX is the most requested service in Montreal, followed by UberXL and Comfort.
The city has strict licensing, vehicle requirements, and background checks for drivers, which ensures a level of safety and professionalism.
UberX in Montreal: How It Works
Using UberX in Montreal is simple:
1. Download the Uber App
Available on iOS and Android, the Uber app is your central hub for booking, tracking, and managing rides.
2. Set Pickup and Drop-Off Location
Use your GPS or manually enter addresses. You'll get real-time fare estimates and wait times.
3. Choose UberX
Select "UberX" from available ride types. During peak hours or holidays, expect surge pricing.
4. Confirm and Track Your Ride
Once you confirm, a nearby driver is matched with you. You can see their name, vehicle, license plate, and ETA.
5. Enjoy the Ride
You can contact your driver if needed and rate the ride after drop-off.
UberX Vehicle and Driver Requirements in Montreal
Uber in Quebec is highly regulated. Drivers and vehicles must meet provincial rules under the Registre des propriétaires et des exploitants de véhicules (SAAQ).
Vehicle Requirements:
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Vehicle must be 10 years old or newer
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4 doors and a minimum of 5 seats
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Pass vehicle inspection every 12 months
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No commercial branding (e.g., taxis)
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Valid Quebec license plates and registration
Driver Requirements:
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Be at least 21 years old
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Hold a valid Class 5 Quebec driver’s license
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Have 3+ years of driving experience
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Pass a criminal background check and driving record check
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Complete training mandated by the Comité provincial de concertation et de développement de l’industrie du transport par taxi
Documents Needed:
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Driver’s license (Class 5)
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Proof of residence in Quebec
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Proof of insurance (with ride-sharing endorsement)
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Bank account info (for earnings)
UberX Fare Structure in Montreal
UberX fares are calculated based on time, distance, and demand. Prices are subject to change, especially during surge pricing.
Typical Fare Breakdown:
Component | Cost Range |
---|---|
Base Fare | CA$2.00 |
Per Kilometer | CA$0.79–CA$1.24 |
Per Minute | CA$0.19–CA$0.20 |
Booking Fee | CA$1.15 |
Minimum Fare | CA$6.50 |
Cancellation Fee | CA$5.00 |
Surge Pricing
During high demand, UberX fares may surge by 1.5x–3x. This commonly occurs:
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During rush hour
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Snowstorms or icy conditions
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Holidays (e.g., New Year’s Eve)
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Festival weekends (Just for Laughs, Osheaga, etc.)
Using UberX from Montreal-Trudeau Airport (YUL)
Montreal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport (YUL) allows Uber pickups and drop-offs.
Steps for Airport Pickup:
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Open the Uber app once you're in the Arrivals hall.
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Select your terminal and request UberX.
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Head to the Ride App Pickup Zone, usually at door 6 of the Departures level.
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Look for your driver’s license plate and confirm.
Estimated UberX Fares from YUL:
Destination | Price Range (UberX) |
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Downtown Montreal | CA$35–CA$45 |
Plateau Mont-Royal | CA$40–CA$50 |
Laval | CA$50–CA$70 |
Longueuil | CA$45–CA$60 |
Pro Tip: Avoid scheduling ahead if you want to save money. Scheduled rides can cost significantly more due to locked-in peak rates.
UberX Share: The Return of Carpooling in Montreal
UberX Share, Uber’s carpooling option, is now active again in Montreal. It allows you to share a ride with other passengers heading in the same direction.
Benefits:
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Save up to 20% on fare
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Environmentally friendly
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Useful for short downtown commutes
Downsides:
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Slightly longer ride due to pickups/drop-offs
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Less private
UberX Share is ideal if you're not in a rush and want to save money.
UberX for Drivers in Montreal: Pros, Cons, and Earnings
Earnings Breakdown:
Driver Type | Avg Hourly Earnings (after expenses) |
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New Driver | CA$14–CA$18/hour |
Experienced Driver | CA$20–CA$30/hour |
Peak Surge Hours | Up to CA$45/hour |
Pros:
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Flexible schedule
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Easy to combine with Uber Eats or other apps
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Weekly payouts or instant cashouts
Cons:
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Vehicle maintenance costs
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Unpredictable earnings
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High competition
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Riders cancel frequently
Pro Tip: To earn more, drive during events, Friday/Saturday nights, or in the Plateau and Downtown core during rush hours.
Tips for Riders Using UberX in Montreal
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Avoid Surge Pricing: Try waiting 10–15 minutes to see if prices drop.
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Use UberX Share: Great way to save on short trips.
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Verify Vehicle and Driver: Always check license plate and name.
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Set Precise Pickup Location: Helps avoid confusion and delays.
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Rate Your Ride: It improves driver quality and your future experiences.
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Use Promo Codes: Uber often provides discounts for new users or referrals.
How to Become an UberX Driver in Montreal
Step-by-Step:
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Sign up at Uber Driver Portal
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Upload your documents
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Pass a background and driving record check
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Complete 30-hour training (mandatory in Quebec)
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Get your Class 4C license (if required for commercial driving)
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Start earning!
Is UberX Cheaper than a Taxi in Montreal?
In most cases, yes—especially for short to medium trips. However, during surge pricing, UberX can be more expensive than a regular cab.
Type | Base Fare | Per km | Wait Time |
---|---|---|---|
UberX | CA$2.00 | CA$0.79–1.24 | Included |
Taxi | CA$3.45 | CA$1.75 | Charged |
Taxis are regulated and have fixed rates, while UberX is dynamic.
Alternatives to UberX in Montreal
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Eva – A locally owned cooperative ride-share
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Téo Taxi – All-electric cab service
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Lyft – Not yet available in Montreal (as of 2025)
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BIXI – Bike-sharing
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STM – Public transit (bus and metro)
Future of UberX in Montreal
With electric vehicles becoming more prevalent and the Quebec government pushing for sustainable mobility, expect UberX to evolve:
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More Comfort Electric and Uber Green options
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Better integration with public transit
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Higher EV incentives for drivers
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Smart surge control based on city data
Uber is also investing in AI routing, driverless pilots, and voice-activated bookings.
Conclusion
UberX in Montreal continues to be a reliable, affordable, and accessible ride option for locals and tourists. Whether you're commuting across boroughs, heading to the airport, or avoiding parking hassles during a Canadiens game, UberX is a solid choice.
It’s not only a popular option for riders but also a flexible income stream for thousands of Montreal drivers. While competition is growing, UberX still leads the ride-share market due to its convenience, app interface, and wide availability.
If you're in Montreal and need a smooth ride, UberX is ready when you are.
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