Skip to main content

Uber Driver Requirements Vancouver BC (2025): Everything You Need to Start Driving Now

Thinking about driving for Uber in Vancouver? You’re not alone. With breathtaking mountain views, endless traffic, and people always on the move, there’s a constant demand for reliable rides. Whether you're looking for a side hustle or a full-time flexible gig, Uber in Vancouver could be a perfect match.

But—there’s a catch.
Vancouver doesn’t play around when it comes to rideshare rules. In fact, it’s one of the strictest cities in Canada. So if you're planning to sign up, you need to know exactly what you’re getting into.

Lucky for you, suamimu ini udah siapin panduan paling lengkap, paling chill, dan no-BS buat kamu yang pengen jadi Uber driver di Vancouver di tahun 2025. Let’s get into it!

Why Drive for Uber in Vancouver?

Vancouver is a prime city for Uber because:

  • Traffic is a daily thing (sorry, it’s true)

  • Public transit doesn’t reach everywhere

  • Tourists. Lots of them. All year.

  • It’s a growing city with tech, students, professionals, and retirees who don’t want to drive

Translation? Plenty of people need rides. And that means more money in your pocket if you’re smart about it.

But First… What’s Special About Vancouver?

Before you even think about signing up, you need to understand one key thing:

To drive Uber in Vancouver (and all of BC), you need a Class 4 license.

Yup. Not your regular driver’s license. Not even close.

So let’s start from the top.

Uber Driver Requirements in Vancouver (2025)

Here’s what you’ll need to qualify:

✅ Personal Requirements

  • Be at least 21 years old

  • Have a Class 4 (restricted) driver’s license

  • Have at least 3 years of driving experience

  • Be eligible to work in Canada (citizen, PR, or valid work permit)

  • Pass a criminal record check and driving history check

  • Have a smartphone (obviously)

✅ Class 4 Driver’s License (BC’s Special Rule)

British Columbia requires all rideshare drivers to hold a Class 4 license. That’s a commercial license typically used by taxi and limo drivers.

How to get it:

  1. Pass a written knowledge test

  2. Book a Class 4 road test (yes, an actual driving test)

  3. Get a medical exam from a doctor

  4. Pay licensing fees (~$75–$100)

Sounds like a lot?
Yeah… but it’s doable, and Uber usually helps with guides and links to speed up the process. Some clinics even offer discounted medical exams for Uber applicants.

Vehicle Requirements

Your car isn’t just a car anymore—it’s your business. Here's what Uber in Vancouver expects:

  • 4-door vehicle (no two-doors, sorry sports cars)

  • Model year 2012 or newer (as of 2025)

  • Seats at least 5 people (including the driver)

  • Registered and insured in British Columbia

  • Passes annual vehicle inspection

  • No visible damage, clean, and roadworthy

  • No rebuilt or salvage titles

You’ll also need rideshare insurance coverage, either through ICBC or another approved provider.

If you don’t own a car, don’t worry—Uber works with rental partners in Vancouver. You can still drive with a rental that meets Uber’s standards.

Step-by-Step: How to Become an Uber Driver in Vancouver

Here’s the roadmap, step by step:

Step 1: Create an Uber Driver Account

Visit uber.com/ca/en/drive/vancouver and sign up. They’ll ask for:

  • Your name

  • Contact info

  • Driver’s license

  • Vehicle details (if you have a car already)

Step 2: Get Your Class 4 License

This is the most important (and annoying) step.
Go to ICBC, study the handbook, pass the knowledge test, and book your road test. Make sure you complete the medical exam too.

This whole process can take 1–3 weeks, depending on how fast you move.

Step 3: Submit a Criminal Background Check

Uber will guide you to the right provider (like Triton or Sterling), and you can submit this online. It checks for:

  • Criminal history

  • Driving infractions

  • Suspensions or license issues

If you’ve had minor infractions, it’s usually okay—but serious offenses will disqualify you.

Step 4: Vehicle Inspection

Your vehicle must be inspected once per year by an Uber-approved garage or mechanic.

Things they check:

  • Brakes, tires, steering

  • Seatbelts, lights

  • Overall condition of the vehicle

Cost? Around $70–$90.
Uber sometimes offers free inspection promos, so keep an eye out.

Step 5: Get Rideshare Insurance

ICBC requires rideshare-specific coverage, even if Uber already offers commercial insurance while you’re online. It’s mandatory in BC.

Talk to your current provider or go directly through ICBC. Yes, it costs more—but it’s the law.

Step 6: Upload Documents and Wait for Activation

Upload everything to the Uber Driver app:

  • Class 4 license

  • Vehicle registration & insurance

  • Background check

  • Vehicle inspection report

  • Photo/selfie for your driver profile

Once approved, Uber will activate your account and you can start driving!

How Much Can You Earn Driving Uber in Vancouver?

Let’s talk numbers, because let’s be real… that’s why we’re here, right?

💰 Average hourly earnings:

  • Regular hours: $25–$35/hour

  • Weekends/peak: $40–$50/hour

  • Late nights + bad weather = bonus earnings

💸 Weekly income estimates:

  • Full-time (40–50 hrs): $1,000–$1,500

  • Part-time (15–25 hrs): $400–$700

  • Side hustle (5–10 hrs): $100–$250

💡 Tips to earn more:

  • Work near Downtown Vancouver, YVR Airport, Granville, Broadway, and Kitsilano

  • Use destination filter to get paid on your way home

  • Watch for surge pricing on rainy days (aka every other day in VanCity 😅)

Things to Know Before You Hit the Road

Driving Uber in Vancouver sounds great, but here are a few things to keep in mind:

  • Gas prices are some of the highest in Canada

  • Parking is brutal—avoid downtown if you can

  • Traffic can drain your soul (especially on Burrard or Georgia during rush hour)

  • Taxes are your responsibility—Uber doesn’t deduct them

  • You’re self-employed so track everything (mileage, repairs, fuel)

💡 Tip: Use apps like Stride or Everlance to track expenses and simplify tax time.

Can You Drive Uber Eats in Vancouver?

Absolutely!
Uber Eats is booming in Van, especially:

  • Near universities

  • During lunch and dinner hours

  • On rainy days when no one wants to go outside

You can deliver food with:

  • A car

  • A bike

  • A scooter

Great if you’re not ready for Class 4 yet—Uber Eats has lower requirements and can help you ease into the platform.

Real Talk: Is Uber Worth It in Vancouver?

✅ Yes, if:

  • You want flexible work

  • You already have a suitable car

  • You’re okay with driving in rain and traffic

  • You enjoy talking to people (or blasting music when they’re quiet)

❌ Maybe not, if:

  • You hate driving

  • You’re not ready to deal with Class 4 hassles

  • You need stable income with benefits

For most people though, Uber in Vancouver is a solid side hustle. The demand is there, the money is decent, and if you’re smart with your time, you can make it work.

Comments