Earn Extra Income with Uber: Flexible Driving in Canada & U.S.
Gary Whittaker
Uber as a Smart Side Income (for Students and Adults in Canada & the U.S.)
Work when you want, where you want—while staying compliant on onboarding, insurance, and taxes.
Why Uber Works for Extra Income
1) Real schedule control
After approval, you choose when and where to work—no fixed shifts or minimum hours. Go online when it fits your life, then go offline when you’re done.
2) Work in many cities (and switch modes)
Uber operates widely across Canada and the U.S. You can drive passengers or deliver with Uber Eats; in many cities, delivery can be done by car, bike, or scooter.
3) Fast access to earnings
Weekly direct deposit is standard. With Instant Pay (Canada) you can cash out multiple times per day (up to 5/day). In the U.S., Instant Pay supports up to 6 cash-outs per day.
What You Need to Get Started
- Apply: Use the referral above to begin the online application.
- Documents: Upload license, vehicle registration, and proof of personal auto insurance. (Canada: requirements | U.S.: requirements)
- Background check: New drivers complete a screening. (Canada: safety screening | U.S.: what checks look for)
- Vehicle: Must meet local standards (four doors, model-year limits, inspection). (Canada: vehicle requirements | General help: vehicle help)
Once approved, download the Uber Driver app, go online, and accept your first trip or delivery.
Insurance: Read This Before You Drive
Tell your insurer you plan to drive or deliver with Uber. Many personal auto policies exclude commercial use; if you don’t disclose rideshare activity, some insurers may deny claims or cancel your policy. Ask for a rideshare endorsement or a rideshare-friendly policy.
- Uber’s commercial coverage while working: During an accepted trip or delivery, Uber maintains commercial auto insurance (limits vary by region). See overviews for Canada and U.S. (Canadian partner example: Economical).
- “App on, no trip yet” gap: That period may rely on your personal policy plus any rideshare endorsement. Confirm with your insurer.
- Optional protections: (U.S.) Optional Injury Protection.
Taxes & Compliance
- Self-employment: Uber does not withhold income tax. Track income, mileage, fuel, maintenance, phone, and other eligible expenses. (Canada: driver tax info)
- Canada (GST/HST): Rideshare/taxi rules apply from the first dollar earned. CRA guidance: GST/HST for ride-sharing and Sharing economy.
- U.S. forms: Depending on thresholds, you may receive 1099-K and/or 1099-NEC. Get tax forms from Uber.
Pros & Cons (Quick Scan)
Pros
- Set your own schedule; no minimum hours.
- Choose rides, Eats, or both; bike/scooter options in many cities.
- Fast payouts via Instant Pay.
Watch-outs
- Disclose rideshare use to your insurer (risk of denial/cancellation if you don’t).
- Earnings vary by city, timing, and costs (fuel, maintenance, depreciation).
- You handle your own taxes and records.
Step-by-Step: From Application to First Payout
- Apply with referral: https://www.uber.com/signup/drive/deliver/?invite_code=83s78tv
- Upload documents & consent to screening: (Canada requirements | U.S. requirements)
- Confirm insurance: Call your insurer; add a rideshare endorsement if needed.
- Activation: Watch for approval, then open the Uber Driver app and go online.
- Plan hours: Target peak zones/hours; test rides vs. Eats.
- Set up Instant Pay: (Canada: Instant Pay | U.S.: Instant Pay)
FAQ
- Do I have to work certain hours?
- No. You decide when to go online and when to stop.
- Is there a background check?
- Yes. New drivers complete a motor-vehicle and criminal screening (local details vary). (Canada: safety screening | U.S.: U.S. background check info)
- What about insurance while I’m working?
- Uber maintains commercial coverage during trips/deliveries; you must keep personal insurance and should disclose rideshare use to your insurer. (Canada: insurance overview | U.S.: insurance hub)
- Can I get paid the same day?
- Yes. Instant Pay supports multiple cash-outs per day. (Canada: up to 5/day; U.S.: up to 6/day.) (Canada: Instant Pay | U.S.: Instant Pay)
- Do I need a new car?
- No. You need an eligible vehicle that meets your city’s standards (and passes inspection). (Canada: vehicle requirements | U.S.: vehicle help)
- How do taxes work?
- Drivers are self-employed. Keep records and file accordingly. (Canada GST/HST: CRA guidance | U.S. 1099s: Uber help)
Final Word
If you want flexible, on-demand earnings that fit around classes, work, or family, Uber is built for that. Start with the right insurance and realistic expectations, then work peak times to maximize results.
Ready? Apply with the referral link
Guide current as of November 2025. Check your local Uber page for the latest requirements, promos, and insurance details.
