Uber Driver Toronto: Requirements, Vehicle Rules, Inspection & How to Sign Up in the 6ix

Thinking about hopping behind the wheel and becoming an Uber driver in Toronto, eh? You’re not alone. With the cost of living climbing and side hustles becoming the new normal, driving with Uber has turned into one of the most popular gigs in the city. Whether you’re cruising down Yonge Street, weaving through the Downtown Core, or picking up a fare near Pearson Airport, there’s always someone who needs a ride — especially on those chilly winter nights, no cap.

Toronto’s got a massive rideshare scene. With thousands of daily rides, Uber’s become part of the city’s rhythm — from office folks heading to Bay Street meetings to students running late for class at UofT. And the best part? You’re the boss. You choose when to drive, how long to stay on the road, and which rides to take. That flexibility hits different, especially if you’re juggling school, a 9-to-5, or just trying to make some extra cash for that weekend trip to Muskoka.

Now, Uber in Toronto isn’t just one thing — it’s a full suite of services designed to fit different rides and budgets. Here’s the quick rundown of what’s available in the city:

• UberX: The standard ride — affordable, fast, and perfect for everyday trips.
• UberXL: For bigger groups or anyone rolling with extra luggage (think airport runs or group hangouts).
• Uber Comfort: Newer cars with more legroom and quieter rides — ideal for folks who want a chill trip.
• Uber Green: Eco-friendly rides using hybrid or fully electric vehicles — big W for the planet.
• Uber Eats: If food delivery’s more your lane, you can make bank dropping off meals instead of passengers.

So yeah, whether you’re driving full-time, part-time, or just looking to hustle on weekends, Uber Toronto’s got options. But — and this is a big one — before you hit the streets, you gotta make sure you meet the city’s driver and vehicle requirements. Toronto’s got some specific rules, and Uber takes them seriously.

Driver Requirements in Toronto

Before you start cruisin’ around the 6ix picking up riders, Uber’s gotta make sure you’re legit to drive — both by Toronto city standards and Uber’s own safety rules. The process isn’t crazy hard, but you gotta tick every box to get that approval faster.

Minimum Age & Licence Type

First off, you need to be at least 21 years old, and you’ll need a valid Ontario driver’s licence — either a G2 or full G. But if you’re serious about driving full-time or doing airport runs, a G licence is a must. That’s the one that lets you drive without those newbie restrictions.

Driving Experience

Uber wants drivers who actually know the roads — and let’s be real, Toronto traffic ain’t for rookies. So you’ll need at least one year of driving experience in Canada (or longer if you’ve had your licence from outside Ontario and it’s recognized here).

Background Check (No Sketchy Stuff, Eh?)

Every Uber driver in Toronto goes through a criminal background check and a driving record review. This includes checking for:

• Criminal convictions
• Past traffic violations or license suspensions
• Any serious driving offences

Uber works with third-party screening partners to make sure everyone on the road is safe. If you’ve got a clean record, you’re golden. If not, you might have to clear things up before applying again.

Work Eligibility

Since Uber pays directly to your Canadian bank, you’ll need to show proof that you can legally work in Canada. That means one of the following:

• Canadian citizenship card or passport
• Permanent resident card
• Valid work permit
• SIN (Social Insurance Number)

Smartphone Requirements

You’ll also need a decent phone, buddy — the Uber Driver app eats up data and GPS power. Any Android or iPhone that supports the latest version of the app will do. Make sure your data plan’s solid; you don’t wanna lose connection while dropping someone off near Union Station.

Bank Account for Payouts

Uber sends payouts every week straight to your Canadian bank account. No cash, no cheques — just direct deposit. If you don’t have a local account yet, it’s worth setting one up before applying.

Pro Tips for Quick Approval

• Double-check your licence and insurance expiry dates before uploading.
• Take clear photos of your documents — blurry pics get rejected fast.
• Complete the background check as soon as Uber emails you.
• Use the same name on all your docs (no nicknames or mismatched info).

When all your boxes are ticked and your background’s clean, Uber usually approves your driver profile in 3–7 business days. Easy as that.

Vehicle Requirements in Toronto

So you’ve got your licence, your background check’s clean, and now you’re ready to roll — but not every ride makes the cut, eh?

Toronto’s got pretty specific standards when it comes to the kind of vehicle you can use for Uber. Whether you’re pushing a Corolla, a CR-V, or a slick Tesla, your car needs to meet Uber’s and the City of Toronto’s requirements.

General Vehicle Rules

Let’s start with the basics:

• Your car must be a 4-door vehicle, able to seat at least 4 passengers (plus you).
• It can’t be older than 10 years — though this varies slightly depending on the service.
• No salvaged or rebuilt titles — Uber doesn’t play with that.
• The car must be in good cosmetic and mechanical condition — no major dents, broken lights, or “check engine” lights on your dash.
• You’ll need Ontario vehicle registration (the car can be in your name or someone else’s, as long as you’re authorized to use it).
• And of course, you’ll need valid auto insurance. Uber adds their own commercial coverage when you’re online, but you still need your own personal policy.

Uber Services & Vehicle Match

Toronto’s Uber game has multiple lanes — literally. Depending on your ride, you can qualify for different categories:

UberX

• The classic one. Affordable rides, everyday cars.
• Model year: usually 10 years old or newer 
• Seats: 4 passengers minimum
• Condition: Clean inside-out, no major damage
• Example rides: Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic, Hyundai Elantra, Mazda3

UberXL

• For those bigger squads or airport hauls.
• Seats: 6 passengers minimum
• Must be an SUV or minivan
• Example rides: Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, Dodge Caravan, Ford Explorer

Uber Comfort

• A lil’ more bougie, for riders who want space and peace.
• Vehicle must be newer (typically 5 years old or less)
• Extra legroom & quiet ride options
• Higher-rated drivers only
• Example rides: Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Hyundai Sonata, Acura TLX

Uber Green

• The eco-conscious option — Toronto’s been pushing this hard lately.
• Must be hybrid or fully electric
• Example rides: Toyota Prius, Hyundai Ioniq, Tesla Model 3, Chevy Bolt

Uber Eats

If you’d rather drop off food than passengers, this one’s your lane.

• Vehicles can be cars, scooters, or even bicycles
• Year requirement is more flexible
• Must have delivery bag (Uber sometimes provides one)

Insurance Requirements

Uber automatically covers your vehicle with commercial rideshare insurance when you’re online and taking trips, but you’re still required to have:

• A valid personal insurance policy in your name
• Insurance that covers you for rideshare or commercial use if possible

This keeps you covered no matter what happens on or off the app.

Extra Tips for Vehicle Approval

• Keep your interior clean — Uber sometimes checks photos of your car.
• Avoid custom decals or tinted windows that make it look like a fleet car.
• Always check the year requirements in your Uber Driver app — they update every year or two.
• If your car’s too old for UberX, consider using it for Uber Eats instead.

Uber Vehicle Inspection in Toronto

So, before you can start picking up riders and bagging those five-star ratings, you gotta pass the Uber vehicle inspection.

It’s basically a health check for your whip — making sure your ride’s safe, solid, and ready to handle the streets of the 6ix.

Don’t stress though, the inspection isn’t rocket science. Think of it like your car’s annual checkup, just with Uber’s standards in mind.

Why It’s Required

Toronto’s all about keeping the roads safe and clean, eh. The city and Uber both want to make sure every ride meets local safety standards.

So even if your car looks mint, Uber still needs a professional to confirm it’s roadworthy. You’ll need to pass this inspection before you start driving, and renew it every 12 months to stay active.

Where to Get It Done

You’ve got a few solid options:

Uber’s Official Partner Centres – check your app or Uber website for the nearest one.

• Canadian Tire – super common spot, approved by Uber.
• Speedy Auto Service, Mr. Lube, or any licensed mechanic that’s certified to do Uber inspections.

Pro tip: always call ahead — some spots take walk-ins, others need appointments.

Cost of Inspection

The cost usually lands around CAD $30 to $60, depending on the shop.

Sometimes Uber drops promo codes for free or discounted inspections at partner centres — keep an eye on your driver app for those, buddy.

What Gets Checked

Here’s the real deal. The mechanic’s gonna run through a 36-point inspection list. 

Here’s what’s typically on it:

• Brakes: front and rear, plus the parking brake.
• Tires: tread depth, air pressure, no cracks or damage.
• Lights: headlights, brake lights, turn signals, interior dome light.
• Horn & mirrors: both side mirrors and rear-view mirror must be intact.
• Seatbelts: no frays, must retract properly.
• Windshield & wipers: no cracks, wipers must clear properly.
• Doors & locks: all must open and close smoothly.
• Steering & suspension: no looseness or clunky noises.
• Exhaust system: no loud rattle or smoke — Toronto cops don’t play with that.
• Heating & A/C: both must function properly (yep, even in winter).
• Interior: no stains, rips, or strong odours — riders notice this big time.

If everything checks out, you’ll get an Uber Vehicle Inspection Form signed by the mechanic. Snap a clear pic and upload it straight through the Uber Driver app.

What If You Fail the Inspection?

Chill, it’s not the end of the road. If something’s off — like worn-out brakes or busted lights — the mechanic will list what needs fixing.

You just gotta repair the issue, then get a re-inspection. Most places offer it for free or half price if it’s within 30 days.

Tips to Pass First Try

• Clean your car inside and out before heading in.
• Check your lights and wipers — those are the top two fail reasons.
• Keep your dash clear of warning lights.
• Make sure your tires aren’t balding, buddy.
• Show up early — inspection centres get packed, especially Fridays and Mondays.

Once your inspection’s approved, upload it, wait for confirmation, and boom — you’re one step closer to hittin’ the road.

How to Sign Up for Uber in Toronto

Alright, so you’ve got your licence, passed your background check, and your car’s looking clean and certified. Time to lock in your spot as an Uber driver in Toronto, eh? The sign-up process is pretty straightforward — just gotta follow the steps and stay patient while Uber runs your checks.

Step 1: Download the Uber Driver App

You can grab the Uber Driver app straight from the App Store or Google Play. Make sure it’s the official one — you’ll know it by the black-and-white steering wheel logo.

Once it’s installed, hit Sign Up to Drive. You’ll create your account with your email, phone number, and password. If you already have a regular Uber rider account, you can use that login too — easy peasy.

Step 2: Enter Your Personal Info

Uber will ask for:

• Your full name (make sure it matches your driver’s licence)
• Address (must be in Ontario)
• Social Insurance Number (SIN)
• And a few questions about your driving experience
• You’ll also choose which city you’ll be driving in — pick Toronto (or GTA area if you’re outside the core).

Step 3: Upload Your Documents

Now comes the paperwork. You’ll need to upload clear photos of:

• Driver’s licence (front and back)
• Vehicle registration
• Proof of insurance (your name has to be listed)
• Work eligibility document (citizenship, PR, or work permit)
• Vehicle inspection report (once you’ve passed it)

Pro tip:

Take your pics in good lighting and crop them neatly — blurry uploads get rejected fast, buddy.

Step 4: Complete Your Background Check

Uber will redirect you to complete your criminal record and driving record check through a trusted partner (like ISB Canada).

You’ll need:

• Your driver’s licence number
• Consent to share your records

It’s all digital, so no need to visit a police station. Most checks come back in 3–5 business days, unless there’s a backlog.

Step 5: Schedule or Upload Your Vehicle Inspection

If you haven’t done it yet, you’ll need to upload your inspection form.

Some Uber partner locations automatically send results to Uber, but if you went to your own mechanic, just take a clear photo of the signed form and upload it under “Vehicle Inspection.”

Step 6: Wait for Approval

Once everything’s in — documents, inspection, background check — Uber will review your profile.

Usually it takes 3–7 business days, but sometimes faster if all your docs are clean.

When you’re approved, you’ll get an email and notification saying “You’re Active!”

From there, you can hop in your car, go online, and start catching rides.

Step 7: Get Familiar with the Uber Driver App

Before you start your first trip, take a minute to explore the app. You’ll find:

• Trip requests (accept or decline)
• Earnings dashboard (shows payouts, bonuses, tips)
• Map view with heat zones (where demand is high)
• In-app navigation (no need for separate GPS)

The app’s your best buddy on the road — it’ll guide you to hot spots like Union Station, Pearson Airport, or King Street nightlife when it’s bumpin’.

Step 8: First Drive Tips

• Start during off-peak hours your first day — get comfy without the stress.
• Keep your car clean and smelling nice — first impressions matter.
• Always greet riders with a quick “Hey, how’s it goin’?” — Torontonians love friendly energy.
• Track your earnings and gas costs so you know what’s really worth it.

Once you’re rolling, Uber sends you weekly payouts straight to your bank account, and you can cash out instantly with Instant Pay if you need that quick bag.

Common Reasons for Rejection & How to Fix Them

So you’ve done everything right — uploaded your docs, passed your inspection, and hit submit. But then, boom — Uber hits you with a “We can’t approve your account right now.”

Annoying? Yeah. Game over? Nah, not even close, buddy.

Getting rejected as an Uber driver in Toronto happens more often than you’d think. The city’s strict, and Uber’s rules are tight — especially for safety and insurance. But most of the time, it’s something small and fixable.

Let’s run through the most common reasons and how to bounce back fast, no cap.

1. Expired or Blurry Documents

This one’s super common, eh. If your driver’s licence, insurance, or registration is expired, blurry, or cropped weirdly, Uber’s system flags it right away.

How to fix it:

• Double-check expiry dates before uploading.
• Retake clear photos — flat surface, good lighting.
• Make sure your name and address are visible and match across all documents.

Pro tip: If you’re using your phone, flip it sideways (landscape mode) when taking pics — it fits Uber’s frame perfectly.

2. Vehicle Doesn’t Meet Toronto Standards

Uber and the City of Toronto both have minimum requirements for vehicles. If your car’s too old, has 2 doors, or doesn’t fit the right category (like trying to list a coupe under UberX), it’ll get rejected.

How to fix it:

• Double-check the model year for your service type (2015+ for UberX is a safe bet).
• Make sure your car’s got 4 doors and seats 4+ passengers.
• If it’s too old, you can still use it for Uber Eats — less strict.
• Or, consider upgrading your whip to qualify for Uber Comfort or Green.

3. Failed or Missing Vehicle Inspection

No inspection = no go, buddy. Even if everything else checks out, your account stays on hold until your car passes Uber’s inspection.

How to fix it:

• Head to an approved Uber inspection centre (Canadian Tire, Speedy Auto, etc.).
• Fix any issues noted by the mechanic (like busted lights, brake wear).
• Re-upload the signed inspection form under “Vehicle Inspection.”
• If it’s expired (older than 12 months), redo it before reapplying.

4. Background Check Didn’t Pass

This one’s a bit heavier, but it happens. Uber screens every driver for criminal and driving history. If there’s something sketchy in there — like a suspended licence or a past offence — your application can get rejected.

How to fix it:

• Request a copy of your screening results to see what triggered the flag.
• If it’s outdated info or an error, contact Uber Support with updated documents.
• Wait for the period to clear — minor driving violations usually expire after a certain time.

5. Mismatched Information

If your name, address, or car details don’t line up between documents, Uber’s system can’t verify your identity.

How to fix it:

• Make sure everything matches — name, spelling, and even abbreviations.
• If you’ve changed your address recently, update it on your driver’s licence and insurance before re-uploading.

6. Photo Issues (Profile or Document Photos)

Yeah, even your driver profile photo can get rejected if it’s not clear or professional. Remember, riders see this pic before hopping in your car — it’s part of your first impression.

How to fix it:

• Take a new photo in good lighting, facing the camera, no sunglasses or hats.
• Keep a neutral background (plain wall works best).
• Smile a bit — friendly faces get more 5-star ratings later on.

7. Technical Glitches or App Errors

Sometimes it’s not even your fault — Uber’s system or app just bugs out. Happens once in a while, especially during peak onboarding times.

How to fix it:

• Log out and back into the app.
• Clear cache or reinstall it.
• If the problem sticks, contact Uber Support through the app or visit a Greenlight Hub in Toronto.

Quick Recovery Tips

• Don’t panic — 90% of rejections get fixed within a week.
• Keep checking your app notifications or email for updates.
• Be patient and polite when chatting with Uber Support — it helps.
• Stay proactive. The faster you fix things, the faster you hit the road and start earning.

Once you’ve got everything sorted, Uber will re-review your account and send that sweet “You’re Approved!” email. From there, you’re officially part of Toronto’s Uber fam — ready to grind, cruise, and stack some cash.

Quick Tips for New Uber Drivers in Toronto

Ayy welcome to the grind, fam — you made it through the paperwork, passed your inspection, and your Uber account’s live. Now it’s time to hit the road and make that bag. But hold up — before you start cruisin’ down Yonge or Queen Street, let’s talk strategy. Toronto’s traffic ain’t a joke, and knowing the local game makes a huge difference.

Here are some pro-level, street-smart tips every new Uber driver in the 6ix should know 

Choose the Right Uber Service for Your Ride

Not every car fits the same lane, buddy.

If your car’s newer and got some space, try Uber Comfort — higher fares and chiller riders.

If you’re rocking a hybrid or electric, go Uber Green — Toronto’s pushing clean energy hard, and riders love supporting eco rides.

Older but solid whip? UberX is your bread and butter.

And if your car’s not eligible for rideshare, don’t sweat it — Uber Eats can still bring in that steady cash.

Drive During Peak Hours

Toronto’s got predictable hot times — that’s when surge pricing kicks in and your wallet smiles.

• Weekdays: 7–9 a.m. (morning rush), 4–7 p.m. (after-work grind)
• Friday & Saturday nights: 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. (downtown party crowd, trust me, they tip good)
• Event nights: Leafs or Raptors games, concerts, or big events at Scotiabank Arena — traffic’s wild, but payouts are fire 

Pro tip: Keep your Uber Driver app map open — those red “heat zones” show you where demand’s poppin’.

Know the Hot Zones

Toronto’s got its money spots. If you’re not there, you’re missing out:

• Downtown Core: King West, Queen Street, Entertainment District — non-stop action.
• Pearson Airport: Busy all day, but make sure you chill in the official Uber waiting area.
• Yorkville & Midtown: Classy rides, higher chance of Comfort requests.
• Scarborough Town Centre & North York: Steady demand, less downtown chaos.

Local trick? After big events, don’t park right outside the venue — head a few blocks out. You’ll dodge traffic and still get the surge.

Keep Your Car Fresh and Clean

You’d be surprised how many riders notice the little things, eh.

• Vacuum and wipe down your interior at least once a week.
• Keep a subtle air freshener (nothing too strong).
• Offer small touches like bottled water or charging cables — riders eat that up, no cap.

Clean car = higher ratings = better earnings. Simple math, buddy.

Manage Your Gas & Maintenance Smartly

Gas prices in Toronto? Wild. But there’s ways to beat the system:

• Use apps like GasBuddy to find cheaper stations near you.
• Keep your tires properly inflated — saves fuel.
• Do regular oil changes and brake checks; don’t wait till something breaks.

Remember: your car’s your moneymaker. Treat it better than your morning coffee.

Keep That 5-Star Energy

Ratings matter, fam. They decide if you stay in Uber’s good books or get fewer requests.

• Greet riders with a quick “Hey, how’s it goin’?” — simple, but sets the vibe.
• Avoid blasting music unless they ask.
• Drive smooth, no sudden stops.
• Don’t stress small talk — some Torontonians love to chat, some just vibe in silence. Feel the mood.

You pull off a few good weeks with high ratings, and Uber’ll start sending you more premium rides.

Watch the Weather — It Pays

Toronto winters hit different, eh. Snowy days mean fewer drivers on the road — which means surge pricing and fatter payouts.

Rainy nights? Even better. Nobody wants to walk or take the TTC in a downpour.

So when the weather looks trash, that’s actually your time to shine.

Track Your Earnings & Expenses

Keep tabs on your gas, maintenance, and car washes — you can claim some of that come tax season.

Apps like Stride or Everlance help you log mileage and expenses automatically.

Remember, being an Uber driver means you’re technically self-employed — so stay smart with your money moves.

Connect with Other Drivers

There’s a whole Uber driver community in Toronto — Reddit groups, Facebook pages, and even WhatsApp chats.

Linking up helps you swap tips, find out which areas are hot, or just vent about that one rider who thought your backseat was a DJ booth .

Toronto’s got your back, fam.

Once you get the hang of the rhythm, driving with Uber in Toronto can actually be pretty chill — flexible hours, decent cash, and a solid side hustle on your own schedule.

Conclusion: Ready to Hit the Road?

Aight, buddy — if you’ve made it this far, you’re officially ready to hit the Toronto streets like a pro. You know the driver requirements, got your ride inspected, learned the hot zones, and even got a few tricks up your sleeve to keep that 5-star rating shining.

Driving with Uber in Toronto isn’t just another side gig — it’s a whole vibe, eh. You’re out there meeting new people, learning the city like the back of your hand, and making solid money while doing it on your own schedule. Whether you’re grinding full-time or just stacking cash on weekends, this city’s got enough hustle for everyone.

Remember, though — Toronto’s fast, but consistency wins.

Keep your car clean, stay polite, and drive safe no matter how wild the traffic gets.

Hit those peak hours, work the airport queue smart, and don’t sleep on those rainy days — that’s where the real money’s hiding.

And yo, don’t stress if the start feels slow. Every Uber driver in Toronto’s been there — figuring out the best routes, dodging the Gardiner traffic, and learning which areas pop off. Once you get your rhythm, it’s smooth sailing (well, except rush hour… nothing saves you there ).

So yeah — you’ve got the info, the tools, and the Toronto attitude. Now all that’s left?

Start the engine, open the Uber app, and get that bread, fam. 

Because in this city, every ride’s a new story — and every kilometre’s a new opportunity.

Final Tip Before You Roll Out:

Keep your docs updated, your inspection fresh, and your hustle strong. Uber’s algorithm loves reliable drivers — stay active and you’ll keep seeing those premium requests pop up.

You’re officially ready to join the Uber fam in the 6ix — drive safe, make that cash, and keep reppin’ the Toronto hustle strong.