Uber Driver Canada Review: How To Become an Uber Driver

If you’re looking to make some extra cash and have a car, becoming an Uber driver could be a great option for you. In this Uber Driver Canada Review: How To Become an Uber Driver, we’ll take a deep dive into what it takes to become a driver, the requirements, the earning potential, and the overall experience of driving with Uber in Canada.

What is Uber Canada?

Uber is one of the most popular ridesharing and delivery apps. It works like a taxi in that users tell the driver where they want to go, and they are taken to their destination. Everything is done on the app, including payments, tracking the driver’s location, and ratings.

As a driver, you can deliver food for Uber Eats or drive users to their destinations.

Founded in 2009, Uber started operations in San Fransisco and has since expanded to other cities worldwide.

Uber Canada is available in many big cities like Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, Edmonton, and Ottawa and has plans to expand its services.

How Much Does an Uber Driver Make?

The average Uber driver’s salary in Canada is $37,323 per year or $19.14 per hour as per Talent.com.

Ultimately, how much you can make as an Uber driver depends on a few factors, such as the city you’re in, how many hours and days per week you work, the time of day, and more.

For example, an Uber driver in Vancouver makes an average of $24.38 per hour, while drivers in a rural city can make much less.

Uber does not state exactly how much you can make per trip or hour; however, each city has a minimum amount you’ll earn for each trip.

Drivers earn a standard fare for every completed trip and can earn more with surge pricing at certain times of the day.

Uber takes a 25% fee plus sales tax on all fares. Drivers get to keep 100% of any tips they earn.

Uber Driver Canada Review: Requirements to Become an Uber Driver

Before you can become an Uber driver in Canada, you need to meet the following requirements:

1. You must be at least 21 years old.
2. You must have a valid driver’s license for at least one year.
3. You must have access to a vehicle that meets Uber’s requirements (more on that below).
4. You must have proof of insurance.
5. You must pass a background check.

Uber Driver Canada Review: Vehicle Requirements for Uber Drivers

To drive with Uber in Canada, your vehicle must meet the following requirements:

1. Your vehicle must be less than 10 years old.
2. Your vehicle must have four doors.
3. Your vehicle must have at least five seat belts (including the driver’s seat belt).
4. Your vehicle must be in good condition and free of cosmetic damage.
5. Your vehicle must pass a vehicle inspection.

Uber Driver Canada Review: How To Become an Uber Driver

If you meet the requirements to become an Uber driver in Canada, the next step is to apply to become a driver. Here’s how:

1. Go to Uber’s website and create an account.
2. Fill out the driver application.
3. Submit required documents, including your driver’s license, proof of insurance, and vehicle registration.
4. Pass a background check.
5. Once you’re approved, download the Uber driver app and start driving!

Related: Best Food Delivery Apps and Services in Canada 2023

Uber Driver Requirements in Canada by Province

Uber has different requirements to become a driver across Canada. Below is a summary of what you need to become an Uber driver in each province.

Uber is not yet available in Prince Edward Island, Newfoundland and Labrador, Yukon, Nunavut, and the Northwest Territories.

Alberta

Uber Drivers must have a valid Alberta Class 1, 2, or 4 driver’s license and an eligible vehicle less than 10 years old. The car must have 4 doors with at least 5 seatbelts and pass a vehicle inspection.

Depending on the city, drivers may need to undergo background screening. Drivers need proof of work eligibility, vehicle insurance, and a Class 1-55 vehicle registration.

British Colombia

Drivers in BC must have a Class 1, 2, or 4 driver’s license, vehicle insurance, proof of eligibility to work in the province, and an eligible vehicle under 9 years old. It should have 4 doors and 5 seats.

A background check and a commercial vehicle inspection are required.

Manitoba

Drivers must hold a valid Class 1 to 5, 5F Manitoba driver’s license or equivalent and proof of work eligibility. Safety screenings are required, including a Driver’s Abstract, Police Information Check with Vulnerable Sector Check, and a Child Abuse Registry application.

The vehicle should be no more than 10 years old, have 4 independently opening doors, have no commercial or Uber branding, and pass a Certificate of Inspection.

Drivers must also have Passenger Vehicle for Hire coverage insurance in all 4-time bands.

New Brunswick

Uber has only just become available in Moncton, NB, and driver requirements are still a bit vague.

According to legislation, drivers must undergo a driving record check, hold a Class 4 license, and have a clean driving record.

Nova Scotia

Drivers in Nova Scotia must have a 4-door vehicle no older than 9 years and be registered in the province. They must have at least 3 years of driving experience and a Nova Scotia class 1, 2, 4, or 4A license.

Drivers must upload their Nova Scotia Vehicle Permit and Certificate of Automobile Insurance, which should be an SPF 1 Automobile Insurance Policy.

The Uber sticker must be displayed on the bottom right side of the rear windshield when drivers are online. They also need to provide proof of work eligibility and pass background checks.

Ontario

Drivers in Ontario must have a valid Ontario G driver’s license, proof of work eligibility, vehicle insurance, and registration. Depending on the city, drivers may need to undergo background screening.

The vehicle should have 4 doors and be 10 years old or newer, except in Toronto, where it should be no more than 7 years old.

Quebec

Uber drivers in Quebec must have a Class 5 or lower Quebec driver’s license. Drivers must undergo a background check and have a clean driving record for the past 3 years.

Vehicles over 4 years old must pass a vehicle inspection. All vehicles should be registered in the province and have specific insurance for Uber and a personal insurance policy.

Drivers must partake in a 15-hour training program and have a GST-QST tax number.

Saskatchewan

Drivers in Saskatchewan must have a Class 5 or equivalent driver’s license, along with proof of work eligibility, insurance, and vehicle registration. They must undergo a criminal check and background screenings.

Vehicles should have 4 doors with at least 5 seatbelts and be no more than 10 years old. They must pass a Light Vehicle Inspection by a licensed mechanic.

Uber Driver Canada Review: Earnings Potential for Uber Drivers

One of the most attractive aspects of driving with Uber is the potential to earn a decent amount of money. However, it’s important to keep in mind that your earnings will depend on several factors, including the following:

1. Your location: If you live in a busy city, you’re likely to earn more than if you live in a small town.
2. Time of day: You’re likely to earn more during peak hours, such as rush hour.
3. Type of ride: You’ll earn more for longer rides and for rides with more passengers.
4. Your rating: The higher your rating, the more likely you are to receive tips and higher-paying rides.

Uber Driver Canada Review: Tips for Maximizing Earnings as an Uber Driver

If you want to maximize your earnings as an Uber driver, here are some tips to keep in mind:

1. Drive during peak hours.
2. Offer exceptional customer service to increase your rating.
3. Keep your car clean and well-maintained.
4. Be friendly and engaging with passengers.
5. Offer water and snacks to passengers to increase tips.
6. Drive in areas with high demand.

Uber Driver Canada Review: Pros and Cons of Driving with Uber

As with any job, there are pros and cons to driving with Uber. Here are some to keep in mind:

Pros

1. Flexible schedule: You can choose when and where you want to drive.
2. Earning potential: You have the potential to earn a decent amount of money.
3. Meeting new people: You’ll have the opportunity to meet new people from all walks of life.
4. Low startup costs: There’s no need to invest a lot of money upfront to become an Uber driver.

Cons

1. Wear and tear on your vehicle: Driving a lot can put a lot of wear and tear on your car, which can be expensive to repair and maintain. 2. No benefits: As an independent contractor, you won’t receive benefits like health insurance or paid time off.

3. Inconsistent income: Your income may vary from week to week or month to month.
4. Safety concerns: Driving for Uber can sometimes be unsafe, especially if you’re driving late at night or in areas with high crime rates.

Uber Driver Canada Review: How To Handle Difficult Passengers

As an Uber driver, you may encounter difficult passengers from time to time. Here are some tips for handling these situations:

1. Remain calm: If a passenger is angry or upset, it’s important to remain calm and not escalate the situation.
2. Set boundaries: If a passenger is being disruptive or disrespectful, it’s okay to set boundaries and let them know what behavior is not acceptable.
3. Contact Uber support: If a passenger is being abusive or threatening, you can contact Uber support for assistance.
4. End the ride: If a passenger’s behavior is putting your safety at risk, it’s okay to end the ride and ask them to exit the vehicle.

Uber vs Lyft

Lyft is another popular ride-sharing app available in Canada and the US.

Drivers must pass two background checks, have a vehicle with 4 doors and a minimum of 5 seatbelts, hold a valid driver’s license, have at least 3 years of driving history, and be 25 or older in most cities.

For riders, Uber is generally cheaper by $5-10 per trip. Drivers make around the same amount as Uber, with an average reported $20 per hour salary.

Uber vs DoorDash

DoorDash is a food delivery service in Canada, Australia, and the US. It works similarly to Uber Eats, where you drive to restaurants to pick up orders and deliver them directly to the customer’s door.

To become a DoorDash driver, you must:

• Be at least 18 years of age
• Have an iPhone or Android smartphone
• Own a bicycle, scooter, or car
• Hold a valid driver’s license, car insurance, at least one year of driving experience, and a clean driving record (if using a car)

DoorDash drivers can earn a base pay of $2 to over $10 for each completed delivery plus 100% of customer tips. The average salary of a DoorDash driver in Ontario is $21.92 per hour.

Uber Driver Canada Review: Frequently Asked Questions

1. How much does an Uber driver make in Canada?

The amount an Uber driver can make in Canada varies based on location, time of day, and other factors. However, on average, Uber drivers in Canada can earn between $15 and $30 per hour.

2. Can I become an Uber driver if I have a criminal record?

It depends on the nature of the offense. Uber conducts a thorough background check, and certain criminal convictions may disqualify you from becoming a driver.

3. What if I don’t have access to a vehicle that meets Uber’s requirements?

If you don’t have access to a vehicle that meets Uber’s requirements, you may be able to rent a car through a third-party provider.

4. Do I need to have commercial insurance to drive with Uber?

No, you don’t need to have commercial insurance to drive with Uber. However, you do need to have personal insurance that meets the minimum requirements set by your province.

5. Can I drive for Uber part-time?

Yes, one of the benefits of driving for Uber is the flexibility to choose your own schedule. You can drive as little or as much as you want.

6. What if I have a problem with a passenger or a ride?

If you have a problem with a passenger or a ride, you can contact Uber support for assistance.

Uber Driver Canada Review: Conclusion

Becoming an Uber driver in Canada can be a great way to make some extra cash, meet new people, and enjoy the flexibility of choosing your own schedule. While there are some requirements and challenges to consider, the overall experience of driving with Uber can be rewarding.

If you’re interested in becoming an Uber driver in Canada, be sure to review the requirements, familiarize yourself with the earning potential, and keep these tips in mind for maximizing your income and handling difficult passengers.

Remember, the most important thing is to always prioritize your safety and the safety of your passengers.

Thank you for reading this Uber Driver Canada Review: How To Become an Uber Driver. Good luck on your Uber journey!