Cab driver jobs in Canada continue to attract international workers, newcomers, and international students because of flexible schedules, steady income potential, and low formal education requirements. Along with taxi driving, related roles such as ride-share drivers, delivery drivers, and chauffeurs are also in strong demand across Canadian cities.
While cab driving is not a direct immigration occupation, it remains a popular survival and settlement job for newcomers already in Canada on a study visa, work permit, or permanent residency pathway.
Cab Driving Jobs in Canada – Overview (2026)
- Country: Canada
- Job Title: Cab / Taxi Driver
- Job Type: Full-time / Part-time / Shift-based
- Experience Required: Yes / No (company dependent)
- Education Required: No formal degree
- Minimum Age: 18–21 years (province dependent)
- Visa Sponsorship: ❌ Not usually available
⚠️ Important clarification:
Canadian taxi companies generally do NOT sponsor visas for foreign drivers. Most drivers are:
- International students
- Open work permit holders
- PR applicants or permanent residents
Is Cab Driving Skilled or Unskilled in Canada?
- Taxi / Cab Driver: Considered low-skilled (TEER 4–5)
- Chauffeur / Limousine Driver: Considered semi-skilled or skilled (TEER 3–4) depending on duties
Chauffeurs often earn more and may require professional passenger endorsements.
What Do You Need to Become a Cab Driver in Canada?
1. Driver’s License (Province-Specific)
Licensing varies by province:
- Ontario:
- G Class driver’s license
- Municipal taxi licensing (city-issued)
- British Columbia / Alberta / Manitoba:
- Class 4 driver’s license
- Quebec:
- Taxi license + basic French proficiency
2. Other Required Documents
- Clean criminal background check
- Medical fitness certificate
- Driving record (abstract)
- Legal work authorization
- Local taxi permit (issued by city or company)
Most companies also prefer:
- High school education (preferred, not mandatory)
- 1–3 years of safe driving experience
Can Foreigners Get Visa Sponsorship for Cab Driver Jobs?
Short answer: No (in most cases).
Canada does not usually issue LMIA or work visa sponsorship for taxi drivers because:
- There is no national driver shortage
- Local labor supply is sufficient
How Foreigners Actually Work as Cab Drivers in Canada
You can legally work as a cab driver if you are already in Canada through:
- Student visa (part-time work allowed)
- Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
- Open Work Permit
- Permanent Residency
Earnings & Work Schedule (2026)
Income depends on:
- City
- Hours worked
- Company commission
- Tips
Average Earnings:
- CAD $18 – $30 per hour (gross)
- Chauffeurs and long-hour drivers may earn more
Work schedules are flexible:
- Morning, evening, night shifts
- Weekends and holidays often pay better
Where to Find Cab Driver Jobs in Canada (Verified Platforms)
1. Job Bank Canada
- Official government job portal
- Filter by city, province, and driving jobs
2. LinkedIn
- Search: “Taxi Driver Jobs Canada”
- Direct employer listings
3. Indeed
- Most active platform for local driving jobs
- Many taxi companies recruit here
Tip: Always check job descriptions carefully—many postings say “must be legally allowed to work in Canada”.
Step-by-Step: How to Apply
- Create a professional CV (simple format is fine)
- Search by city + “Cab Driver” or “Taxi Driver”
- Confirm licensing requirements for that province
- Apply online
- Attend interview (often same week)
- Complete license & background checks
- Start work after approval
Pros & Cons of Cab Driving Jobs in Canada
Pros
- Flexible working hours
- No high education required
- Easy entry job for newcomers
- Good side income for students
- Explore Canadian cities
Cons
- No direct visa sponsorship
- Long hours for higher income
- Licensing costs in some cities
- Income varies daily
Final Thoughts
Cab driver jobs in Canada remain a realistic and practical job option in 2026, especially for:
- International students
- New immigrants
- Work permit holders
However, it’s important to understand that visa sponsorship is not part of this occupation. The job works best as a settlement or side job, not a primary immigration route.
If you’re already in Canada and meet provincial licensing requirements, cab driving can help you earn, settle, and support yourself while exploring long-term opportunities.