Hopp Vehicle Requirements Canada – Full Checklist & Inspection Guide

Thinking about joining Hopp as a driver?

Starting as a Hopp driver in Ontario means understanding the vehicle guidelines from the get-go. Hopp outlines its own vehicle standards, and knowing what’s required upfront helps you plan ahead, gather what you need, and avoid delays once you’re ready to apply. Just like other rideshare services, Hopp follows specific standards to ensure every vehicle on the road is safe, comfortable, and compliant with Canadian regulations.

Unlike the bigger national platforms, Hopp currently operates exclusively within the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), covering cities like Toronto, Mississauga, Brampton, Vaughan, Markham, and nearby communities. That means all vehicle requirements are aligned with Ontario’s provincial regulations, along with Hopp’s internal policies.

In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know — from the types of Hopp services available, the list of eligible vehicles, age limits for cars, required documentation, and the vehicle inspection process. We’ll break it all down so you can get your car ready and confidently start your journey as a Hopp driver.

Getting Around the GTA? No matter where you’re headed, there’s a Hopp ride that blends right in with your routine.

In Canada — especially around the GTA — Hopp rolls out a mix of ride options to match different needs and vibes. Whether you’re commuting solo, travelling with your pet, or rolling deep with friends — there’s a Hopp for that.

• Standard (Hopp Rides)

This is your go-to everyday ride.Great for groups of up to four, these rides are smooth, practical, and keep things simple from pickup to drop-off.

• Comfort

Need a bit more breathing room? Need extra space to stretch out or stash your stuff? Comfort’s got you covered — ideal when you want a little more room to relax.

• XL

Got a group? No problem. Hopp XL fits up to 6 people, making it great for squad nights out or airport runs with the whole family.

• Pets

Travelling with your furry friend? Hopp’s got a pet-friendly option too — but only drivers who’ve signed up as pet-approved can take these rides, so you know your little buddy’s in good hands.

Each service type has its own vehicle standards, but across the board, every car still needs to meet Hopp’s general requirements — like vehicle age, overall condition, and the right documents.

Vehicle Requirements by Hopp Service Type

1. Hopp Standard

Looking to drive with Hopp Standard? Here’s what your car needs:

• Your car needs to have 4 doors at the very least, and enough space so four people can sit without bumping elbows.

• If you're driving in Toronto, Mississauga, or Oakville, your car should be no older than 7 years.

• In areas like Markham, Vaughan, Pickering, and Ajax, we accept vehicles that are up to 10 years old.

• All seatbelts must work properly—no exceptions. 

• Your vehicle should be in solid condition, with no major accident history.

Basically, if it’s clean, safe, and smooth-running, you're good to go!

2. Hopp Comfort

Want to give your passengers a bit more legroom? Hopp Comfort is all about extra space and a smoother ride:

• Go with a sedan or crossover that gives your riders a bit of stretch room—no one wants to feel squished during the trip.

• It must seat 4 passengers comfortably.

• Vehicle age rules are the same: 

1. In Toronto, Mississauga, and Oakville, your vehicle shouldn’t be older than 7 years. 
2. Up to 10 years old for Markham, Vaughan, Pickering, and Ajax.

• Make sure the interior is tidy, fresh, and feels inviting—like something you’d proudly offer to a close friend or family.

• A working air conditioner is a must. No one wants to sweat through their trip!

3. Hopp XL

If you’ve got a bigger ride like an SUV or a minivan, this one’s for you:

• Your ride should have space for at least six people, and yep—everyone needs their own working seatbelt.

• The age rule still applies: 

1. Max 7 years old in Toronto, Mississauga, Oakville. 
2. Max 10 years old in Markham, Vaughan, Pickering, and Ajax.

• Your car should be spacious, comfortable, and safe for group trips, big families, or those Friday night outings with friends.

4. Hopp Pets

Love furry passengers? Hopp Pets is for pet-friendly drivers:

• Make sure your vehicle’s clean and doesn’t have anything that could bother sensitive noses—keep it free from fur, dander, or anything that might set off allergies.

• Your car needs to fit the space standards set for Hopp Standard or Hopp XL, depending on how big your ride actually is.

• Same age requirements:

1. Up to 7 years old for Toronto, Mississauga, Oakville.
2. Up to 10 years old for Markham, Vaughan, Pickering, Ajax.

• Make sure the interior’s easy to wipe down—full carpeting’s a no-go, since fur and messes love to stick around there.

• What really matters? Your car needs to be pet-friendly and safe—ready for anything from a tiny Chihuahua to a big, bouncy retriever.

Vehicles That Hopp Won’t Accept

So, not every car is cut out for driving with Hopp. Hopp sets a few ground rules to keep things simple, smooth, and comfortable for both drivers and riders — makes the whole experience better for everyone. Thinking of signing up to drive? Make sure you know what kinds of cars usually don’t make the cut before going all in. Here's a rundown:

• Two-Door Cars

While they might look sleek, two-door vehicles just don’t cut it when it comes to passenger accessibility. Riders need to get in and out easily—especially in the back seat.

• Sport Cars & Convertibles.

Cool? Definitely. Practical for ride-hailing? Not so much. They might look cool on the road, but sporty cars aren’t really built for ride-sharing. There’s barely room to stretch, and riding in it feels more like a squeeze than a trip — not exactly what passengers are hoping for.

• Pickup Trucks (without a crew cab)

Unless your truck has enough cabin space to fit passengers comfortably, it’s probably not going to pass Hopp’s screening. Trucks with single cabs usually don’t offer enough room in the back, which makes them a poor fit for giving rides.

• Former Taxis or Rental Cars

Even if they look okay from the outside, these vehicles often show heavy wear and tear. That’s a red flag for Hopp.

• Cars with Damaged or Missing Interior Features

Think torn seats, broken seatbelts, or malfunctioning safety features—if your car’s interior isn’t in good shape, it probably won’t pass inspection.

• Cars with Big Commercial Branding

Got large decals, logos, or full-body ads on your vehicle? Unfortunately, Hopp prefers a clean, neutral look—so heavily branded cars usually don’t make the cut.

• Cars with Faded Paint, Rust, or Major Body Damage

First impressions matter. When your car looks beat up or neglected, it can leave a bad impression—and Hopp definitely pays attention to that kind of detail.

• Heavily Modified Cars

Lowered suspension, loud exhausts, weird lighting setups—those mods might be fun for car meets, but not so much for ride-sharing. Hopp’s looking for standard, safe rides.

• Cars Without Working A/C

Nobody wants to sweat through their trip—especially during summer. If your A/C is busted, that’s a deal-breaker.

Quick Tip:

Thinking of applying? Start by giving your car a proper once-over. Is it clean, safe, and in solid condition? That’s what Hopp’s after. A well-maintained car—not just mechanically, but also visually—can make all the difference. And yes, regular check-ups definitely help boost your chances.

Vehicle Docs & Driver’s Licence You’ll Need to Sign Up for Hopp in Canada

Thinking about driving with Hopp in Canada? Great choice! Before you start cruising with Hopp, there are a few things you’ll want to get in order. Nothing too wild—just some essential paperwork to make sure you’re all set to roll legally and safely. So, let’s walk through everything you’ll need to have ready before signing up—it’s not a long list, but every bit counts.

1. A Valid Canadian Driver’s Licence

The first must-have? A Canadian driver’s licence that’s current and in good shape. No valid licence means no driving—plain and simple.

• Driving in Ontario? Then you’ll need to hold a Class G licence—that’s the standard requirement over there.

• In other provinces, it's usually Class 5 or the equivalent.

• Your licence can’t be suspended, frozen, or revoked.

• You’ll need at least 1 year of driving experience in Canada under your belt.

• Make sure the photo is clear and all info is easy to read—no blurry shots, please.

2. Vehicle Registration

Your car needs to be properly registered in the province where you’ll be driving.

• Your car can be registered in your name or someone else’s—but if it’s not yours, you’ll need written permission from the actual owner (yep, an official vehicle authorization letter).

• This letter must:

• Both you and the vehicle owner need to put your John Hancock on the letter—without both signatures, it won’t be accepted.

• Clearly mention full names, addresses, and vehicle details.

• Don’t forget to include a copy of the owner’s ID too—could be their driver’s licence or any other valid photo ID.

• Make sure your vehicle’s registration is current and matches the region you plan to drive in.

3. Vehicle Insurance

Your ride needs insurance that covers ride-sharing or commercial use.

• Your name should show up on the insurance policy—whether you’re the main owner or listed as an approved secondary driver.
• The insurance needs to be current and cover the area where you plan to hit the road.
• Double-check with your provider to confirm ride-sharing is covered—it’s a must.

4. Vehicle Safety Inspection

For everyone’s safety—yours and your riders’—your vehicle’s gotta go through and pass a proper safety check.

• You’ll have to bring your car to a licensed mechanic or an approved inspection centre nearby—depends on your province.

• Make sure you’ve got a valid inspection slip showing your car passed—ideally, it should be from sometime in the last six months, not something old and dusty.

• The check covers things like:

• Brakes.
• Headlights and signal lights.
• Tires.
• Windshield and wipers.
• Seatbelts.
• Other key safety systems

5. Vehicle Photos

Yep, they’ll want to see your car too. Snap some clear, well-lit photos—no filters, please.

You’ll need shots of:

• The front of your car.
• The back.
• The left and right sides.
• The interior (dashboard + seats).
• The licence plate

Make sure everything’s visible—good lighting and clean lenses make a big difference.

Ready to Roll with Hopp? Here’s Your No-Stress Guide to Getting Your Vehicle Inspected in Canada

Before you hit the road with Hopp, your vehicle needs to pass a safety inspection that meets both Hopp’s standards and provincial regulations. No need to stress — it’s actually a pretty simple process once you know the steps. Let me walk you through it — step by step, without the boring bits.

1. Find an Approved Inspection Location

First things first — make sure you're going to a licensed inspection centre that's approved by your province and accepted by Hopp.

If you’re in cities like Toronto, Mississauga, Oakville, Markham, Vaughan, Pickering, or Ajax, you’ll usually find inspection services at certified auto shops or official vehicle inspection stations.

2. Walk-In or Book an Appointment — Your Call

There are spots where you can just pop in, but many will ask you to book ahead — saves you from wasting time in a long line.

It’s always a good idea to give them a quick call or check their website to confirm availability, what documents they need, and whether you need an appointment.

3. Bring Your Car and All the Right Paperwork

Roll up with your car in good, clean shape — ready for inspection. Make sure everything's in working order. Don’t forget to bring your vehicle registration and valid insurance papers — both are a must.

4. Time for the Inspection

Here’s where they’ll get hands-on. The mechanic’s gonna give your ride a full once-over — from the brakes and lights to your tires, seatbelts, windows, and all the other stuff that keeps it safe on the road.

If everything checks out, you’ll get an official inspection certificate right on the spot. Nice!

5. Upload Your Certificate to Your Hopp Account

Once you’ve got the certificate, upload it right away to your Hopp driver dashboard — either through the app or website. This keeps your profile up to date and helps speed up the approval process.

6. Didn’t Pass? No Stress

If your car doesn’t make the cut on the first try, no biggie — they’ll hand you a rundown of what needs to be sorted out.

After you’ve fixed everything up, swing by again for another look — either at the same garage or wherever they point you next.

7. What About the Cost?

Inspections usually cost somewhere between $50 to $100 CAD, depending on where you go and what shop you choose.

Some places might offer full inspection packages at different price points, so it’s smart to ask ahead and avoid surprises.

Keep in mind — you’ll be footing the bill for the inspection yourself. You’ll have to handle the inspection fee yourself — Hopp doesn’t cover it. It won’t break the bank, but it’s one of those things that’s better handled before it sneaks up on your wallet.

Quick Note About Vehicle Inspections

Just a heads-up — the inspection fee is non-refundable, even if your vehicle doesn’t pass. Better to show up with a car that’s ready, than end up paying double and leaving with a headache.

On average, you're looking at anywhere from $50 to $150 CAD, depending on the area and who’s doing the inspection.

If your car doesn’t pass and needs a re-check, you’ll have to pay again for the second inspection — no freebies there.

So, best advice? Make sure your vehicle’s in tip-top shape before you bring it in. It’s a good way to avoid wasting cash, wasting time, and walking out annoyed.

How to Register Your Vehicle on Hopp Canada

Thinking of hitting the road with Hopp? Awesome! Before you can start picking up rides, you’ll need to get your vehicle officially registered on the Hopp platform. Don’t worry—it’s all done through the app and the steps are pretty straightforward. As long as your paperwork’s good to go, you won’t break a sweat getting everything set up.

Here’s how to do it:

1. Open the Hopp Driver app and log into your account. 

This is where everything starts—simple enough!

2. Jump into the “Vehicle” tab and hit “Add a Vehicle” to get started with your ride info.

Time to tell Hopp what you’re driving.

3. Fill in your vehicle details.

Fill in everything about your car—what it is, when it was made, what colour it is, the plate number, all that jazz. Just give Hopp the full picture.

4. Upload all the required documents.

That includes:

• Your Vehicle Registration — the official doc showing the car’s legally registered to you.
• Proof of active insurance.
• A recent inspection report
• Your valid driver’s licence

5. Using someone else’s car?

No problem—but make sure you also upload an Authorization Letter (basically, written permission from the vehicle owner).

6. Sit tight while Hopp reviews everything.

The verification process usually takes 1 to 3 business days, so just hang tight.

7. After it gets the green light, your vehicle will pop up on your dashboard—and boom, you’re all set to start taking trips.

Heads up:

Make sure every single doc you upload is clear, current, and complete. If anything’s blurry, expired, or missing, Hopp might reject it—and no one wants to redo paperwork, right?

What Happens If Your Car Doesn’t Meet Hopp’s Requirements?

So, here’s the deal—if your vehicle doesn’t check all the boxes set by Hopp, whether it’s the model year, physical condition, paperwork, or the inspection results, your application’s not going to make it through. Here’s what you might run into:

• You might get a soft rejection. That means they’ll let you know what needs fixing—maybe you need new tires, a brake service, or to update some expired documents.After you’ve handled whatever needs fixing, you can hop back in when you're ready and send in your application once more.

• Hard no? If your vehicle’s too old or keeps failing inspections, unfortunately, it just won’t be eligible for the platform at all.

• Not your car? If the vehicle isn’t registered under your name and you don’t include a valid authorization letter or ownership docs, they’ll turn down the application right away.

Hopp’s pretty serious about keeping the fleet in good shape, which honestly, is a good thing for everyone. 

If your car doesn’t meet the mark, no worries—just sort out what’s missing, or switch to a vehicle that ticks all the right boxes. Once everything’s good to go, give it a few days, then reapply when you’re ready.

Using a Vehicle That’s Not Registered Under Your Name

Planning to drive with Hopp but the car’s not actually under your name? That’s totally fine—there’s just a bit of extra paperwork to sort out, depending on who owns the vehicle. No stress—you can still use that vehicle, even if it’s not yours. Just need to tick a few extra boxes, depending on whether it’s borrowed from someone you know or rented from a company.

• A Signed Permission Letter (If It’s a Friend’s or Family Member’s Car)

If you’re using a car that belongs to a friend or family member, you’ll just need a simple letter from them saying they’re cool with you using it for rideshare with Hopp. 

Think of it like a friendly note that says, “Yep, I’m okay with them using my car for rideshare”—but made official with a signature. 

Make sure it’s signed by the legal owner and stamped according to local regulations (yep, those stamps still matter!).

• Official Rental Agreement (For Rentals)

Using a rental car? You’ll need to upload a valid rental agreement that’s still active. And here’s the key part—the agreement must clearly say that the car can be used for commercial or rideshare purposes. No grey areas allowed.

• Vehicle Ownership or Registration Docs

Even if the ownership’s not under your name, you’ll still need to show proof the vehicle’s properly registered. It’s just part of making sure everything’s running by the book. 

Take a clear photo or scan of the vehicle ownership docs and upload them—Hopp just needs to see that everything checks out and the car’s good to go.

Just make sure to upload a clear copy of the official vehicle registration—whatever the provincial document is in your area, like the ownership papers or vehicle permit.

• Proper Insurance Coverage

The vehicle you’re using must be covered under a valid insurance policy that allows rideshare use. If it’s a rental, double-check with the rental company that their coverage includes commercial or rideshare driving. Better safe than sorry, right?

As long as you’ve got the right paperwork, you can hit the road with a car that’s not in your name—legally, safely, and fully in line with Hopp’s Canadian policies. As soon as your documents are good to go, so are you. Hopp just needs to see everything lines up—then you’re ready to roll.

Can I Use an Out-of-Province Vehicle with Hopp?

Totally, you can sign up with a vehicle from another province—as long as you’ve got all your paperwork in order and the car meets Hopp’s technical and legal standards. Alright, so before anything else, there are a couple of things you really need to have figured out if you wanna cruise smoothly with Hopp.

• The vehicle’s gotta have legit plates and registration from the province it originally came from.

• Your insurance has to actually cover you in the province where you’re gonna be hitting the road.

• You’ll still need to get your vehicle inspected in the province you’re registering to drive in, not where the car originally came from.

• If the car belongs to someone else—or maybe a company from out of province—you’ll still need a permission letter signed by whoever’s name is on the registration.

Even if your car’s not local, no worries—you can still roll with Hopp as long as all your docs are in check and you’re playing by the rules of the city you’re driving in.

Wrapping It Up

Getting your car ready to drive with Hopp in Canada isn’t just a box to check — it’s a solid first step if you want to hit the road smoothly. From the car’s age and body type, to making sure you've got all the right paperwork (like insurance, registration, your driver’s licence, and even a permission letter if the car isn’t in your name) — everything needs to line up with the rules.

Sort all that out early, and your application process will be way easier. Plus, don’t forget to double-check that your vehicle’s in good condition and safe to drive — that's key for both you and your passengers.

Think of this guide as your go-to checklist for getting your ride ready to join Hopp. Once you've got it all sorted, you're good to go — just hop in, start driving, and begin earning on your own schedule.