Before you can drive for a rideshare app like Uber or Lyft in Toronto, you’ll need to be properly licensed. The City of Toronto requires all rideshare drivers to hold a Private Transportation Company (PTC) Licence, which ensures drivers meet specific training and safety standards.
The process might sound intimidating, but it’s actually quite straightforward. In this blog post, we break it down into two simple steps.
What is a PTC License?
A Private Transportation Company (PTC) is any company that provides rides through a digital platform, such as Uber or Lyft. In Toronto, you can’t just download the app and start driving. You need a PTC Licence, which ensures you’ve completed the City of Toronto’s training requirements and meet their driver and vehicle standards.
Step 1: Take a City-Approved Training Course
Before you can apply for a licence, you’ll need to complete a mandatory training course approved by the City of Toronto. The course covers knowledge you’ll need to know as a vehicle-for-hire driver, including:
- Safely transporting passengers
- Navigating the challenges of city driving
- Providing service to passengers with disabilities or accessibility needs
- Preventing racism and discrimination
- Laws and regulations that govern vehicle-for-hire drivers
The course typically takes a few hours to complete and can be done online at your own pace. At the end, you’ll take a multiple choice test. Once you pass, you’ll receive a certificate of completion which is required when applying for your PTC licence.
Step 2: Sign Up With a PTC
You can’t apply for a PTC licence directly through the City of Toronto. Instead, you’ll need to sign up with a rideshare company such as Uber or Lyft. The company will act as a middleman and submit your application to the City on your behalf.
Each company has slightly different requirements for their drivers. Along will your training certificate, you’ll typically need to provide:
- A valid Class G Ontario driver’s license
- Proof of work eligibility, such as a passport, PR card, or work permit
- Proof of vehicle registration and insurance
- A valid vehicle inspection certificate
For more details on requirements, refer to the Uber and Lyft websites.
Final Thoughts
Getting your PTC licence in Toronto really comes down to two steps: complete your city-approved training and apply through a rideshare company. Once approved, you’ll be licensed to drive passengers across the GTA.
Looking for information on the licence renewal process? Check out our blog post on How to Renew Your PTC Licence.
