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Thinking about signing up for Uber, Lyft, or another ride-hailing app? You’re not the only one. Every year, more people in Vancouver look at it as a way to earn extra money or work on their own schedule.
But is it actually worth it in 2025?
Let’s break it down in real terms, so you can make the choice that works for you.
First, You’ll Need the Right Licence
You can’t just start driving people around with your regular licence. In BC, you need something called a Class 4 Restricted licence.
That means you’ll have to:
- Pass a knowledge test
- Get a medical check
- Pass a road test
- Drive a vehicle that qualifies for ride-hailing
If you want help with that, we offer training at Kits Elite Driving School. We’re based in Kitsilano and help people from all across Vancouver get ready for their Class 4 test.
What About the Money?
Let’s be honest. The pay isn’t what it used to be.
Most drivers in Vancouver say that ride-hailing is best as a part-time gig. It helps cover bills, gas, or savings goals, but it’s harder to rely on it as full-time income. You might earn more during rush hour, on weekends, or during events, but that also means working odd hours.
You’ll also need to cover:
- Gas
- Vehicle wear and tear
- Insurance costs
- Cleaning and maintenance
- Any downtime between rides
By the time you take out those expenses, the profit might not be as high as people expect.
Is the Work Hard?
It can be. Driving around Vancouver means sitting in traffic a lot, dealing with weather, and navigating tight pickup spots downtown or at the airport.
You also deal with people — and not every rider is friendly. You’ll need to stay polite, stay patient, and stay alert, especially during late-night shifts.
That said, some people love it. You meet interesting folks, listen to music, and choose your own hours. You can turn the app on when it suits you, and that kind of freedom is hard to find in other jobs.
What Kind of Car Do You Need?
Each platform has its own rules, but most of the time, your car must:
- Be 10 years old or newer
- Have four doors
- Be clean and in good shape
- Pass a commercial vehicle inspection
You also need proper insurance for ride-hailing in BC. This is different from regular car insurance.
If you're not sure whether your car qualifies, we go over this during our lessons too.
What’s the Road Test Like?
The Class 4 road test is stricter than the regular test. You’ll need to show more control, be extra aware of surroundings, and follow rules for driving passengers. It’s not impossible, but you don’t want to wing it either.
If you want to pass on the first try, it helps to take a few lessons. You can check our prices here and pick a session that fits your schedule.
Final Thoughts
Driving for Uber or Lyft can work well for certain people. If you want flexibility, enjoy driving, and don’t mind busy streets, it might be a solid side income.
Just be clear on what to expect. The licence takes effort. The work isn’t always easy. But with the right setup, some good habits, and local practice, it can still be worth it.
If you need help getting started, Kits Elite Driving School is here for you. We help future ride-hail drivers from all over Vancouver get ready to drive smart and pass with confidence.