What vehicles for hire are
A vehicle for hire in Wrenford includes taxis, limousines, designated driver services, shuttles, and transportation network companies (ride-hailing apps). All of these services must follow the Vehicle for Hire By-law 2022-082 to keep drivers and passengers safe.
Who needs a licence
You need a licence if you transport passengers for money. This applies to drivers and the businesses that connect them to riders.
Driver licences
Any driver for a taxi, limousine, shuttle, designated driver, or ride-hailing vehicle must hold a Driver for Hire Licence. You must be at least 21 years old, hold a valid Ontario driver's licence with a clean record for the past three years, and pass a Vulnerable Sector Check.
Brokerage licences
A brokerage is the business or app that links customers to drivers. Brokerages need a Licence to operate in the city. The fee depends on how many drivers or vehicles you have.
How to apply
You can apply online or drop a package off at the Business Licensing counter at City Hall. Leave at least seven business days for processing.
Required documents for drivers:
- Driver for Hire Application Form
- Copy of your Ontario driver's licence
- Three-year driver's abstract
- Vulnerable Sector Check (dated within six months)
- Passport-style photo
- Letter of Affiliation from a licensed brokerage
Required documents for brokerages:
- Brokerage Licence Application Form
- Proof of insurance
- List of all vehicles and drivers
- Payment of the licence fee
2026 Licence fees
All licences expire on August 31 each year.
| Item | Fee |
|---|---|
| Driver for Hire Licence | $115.00 |
| Independent Brokerage (1-10 vehicles/drivers) | $450.00 |
| Mid-size Brokerage (11-30 vehicles/drivers) | $1,200.00 |
| Large Brokerage (31+ vehicles/drivers) | $2,850.00 |
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a city licence if I only drive for a ride-hailing app?
Yes. All ride-hailing drivers operating in Wrenford must have a Driver for Hire Licence and be affiliated with a licensed brokerage.
Can I use my personal car for a taxi service?
No. All vehicles used for taxi or limousine services must pass a city inspection and display a city-issued plate. Ride-hailing vehicles must meet safety standards set by the brokerage.
What happens if I get a complaint?
The Business Licensing team reviews all complaints. Repeated violations or safety concerns can lead to fines or licence suspension under the Vehicle for Hire By-law 2022-082.
How do I renew my licence?
Renewal notices are mailed in June. You will need to submit a new Vulnerable Sector Check and pay the renewal fee by August 31.
Contact us
For application forms, questions, or to submit documents, email the Business Licensing team at [email protected] or call 519-555-0140. You can also visit the Service Wrenford counter at City Hall, Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.