Canada offers a wealth of driver job opportunities, making it an excellent destination for those seeking stable and rewarding careers. With the rise of e-commerce, an aging workforce, and expanding transportation networks, Canadian employers nationwide are actively hiring. From high-paying trucking jobs to flexible gig economy roles, there’s a driving position to suit various lifestyles and experience levels. Whether you're interested in long-haul trucking, local deliveries, or ridesharing, the demand for skilled drivers continues to grow.

Take a look below and explore the most in-demand driving jobs, their benefits, and how to get started in this thriving industry.

Does Canada Need Drivers in 2025

 

Canada's transportation sector faces a driver shortage expected to reach over 25,000 drivers by 2025, according to Transports Canada. Drivers can find work opportunities in different Canadian provinces. British Columbia, Manitoba, and Alberta show good job prospects. New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island give drivers excellent prospects.

Saskatchewan offers exceptional opportunities for delivery drivers. Transport drivers' wages keep growing steadily. The average hourly salary reached 35,73 CAD in the second quarter of 2024, according to Talent.com. The outlook seems optimistic, as 19.0% of transportation businesses expect higher service demand in the coming months, according to Statistics Canada.

Top 5 Driving Jobs in Canada

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Canada's vast lands and growing economy make driving jobs essential to the nation's workforce. With the transportation sector thriving, drivers are in high demand across multiple industries. If you're looking for a stable and rewarding career, here are Canada's top five driving jobs.

Truck Driver

Truck driving is one of the most sought-after professions in Canada, with high demand for long-haul and short-haul truckers. The Canadian trucking industry moves over 90% of consumer goods and plays a crucial role in supply chains. Long-haul truck drivers, in particular, are in high demand due to labor shortages. They transport goods across provinces and even into the United States. The average salary for truck drivers in Canada ranges from 56 587,72 CAD to 90 566,77 CAD per year, with experienced long-haul drivers earning even more.

Requirements

  • A Class 1/AZ commercial driver’s license,
  • Air brake endorsement,
  • Knowledge of transport regulations, and
  • Willingness to spend long hours on the road.

Learn about the best provinces for truck drivers in Canada.

Delivery Driver

With the rise of e-commerce and online shopping, delivery drivers are in increasing demand. Companies like Amazon, UPS, FedEx, and local courier services rely on drivers to ensure timely deliveries. Food delivery services like Uber Eats and DoorDash also provide flexible work opportunities.

Requirements

  • A valid driver’s license (Class 5 or G),
  • A reliable vehicle (for independent contractors),
  • Good navigation skills, and
  • Physical stamina for lifting packages.

The average salary for delivery drivers varies based on the employer and workload, ranging from 44,586.40 CAD to 69 666,25 CAD annually.

Bus Driver

Bus drivers in Canada provide essential public and private transportation, including city transit, school buses, and charter services. Many provinces face bus driver shortages, making this a great career with job security. Public transit drivers in cities like Toronto and Vancouver earn competitive wages, often with union benefits.

Requirements

  • A Class 2 or B license,
  • Passenger endorsement,
  • Strong communication skills, and
  • Ability to handle passenger interactions.

Canada bus drivers earn between 52,945.75 CAD and 89,410.43 CAD annually, depending on location and experience.

Taxi & Ride-Share Driver

Driving for ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft or working as a taxi driver offers flexibility and decent earnings. While taxi drivers must follow municipal regulations, ride-share drivers can set their schedules.

Requirements

  • A Class 4 or G license (depending on the province),
  • A clean driving record, and
  • Good customer service skills.

Earnings depend on hours worked, but most drivers earn between 43,191.98 CAD and 74,289.80 CAD annually.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Heavy equipment operators drive specialized vehicles such as dump trucks, bulldozers, and loaders for construction and mining industries. These jobs offer high salaries due to skill requirements and industry demand.

Requirements

  • A commercial driver’s license,
  • Equipment operation certification, and
  • Experience in construction or mining.

Salaries range from 69 646,69 CAD to over 102,586.59 CAD annually, making this one of the most lucrative driving jobs.

How Can I Find a Top 5 Driving Job in Canada?

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Finding a top driving job in Canada requires research, preparation, and qualifications. Here are five essential steps to secure one of the best driving jobs in the country.

Step 1: Meet Licensing Requirements

To work as a professional driver, you need the appropriate license. For truck driving, a Class 1 (in most provinces) or Class A (Ontario) commercial driver’s license (CDL) is required. Rideshare and delivery drivers may need a Class 4 or Class 5 license.

Step 2: Search for High-Paying Opportunities

Top driving jobs in Canada include long-haul trucking, delivery services, ridesharing (Uber/Lyft), public transit, and specialized transport (hazardous materials or oversized loads). Use job platforms like Indeed, Glassdoor, and Trucking HR Canada to find reputable employers.

Step 3: Gain Experience And Certifications

Canadian employers prioritize drivers with proven track records, so building a clean driving history is essential. Supplementing this with relevant certifications, such as air brake endorsements, defensive driving courses, and hazardous materials transport certification, will further enhance your employability.

Step 4: Network with Industry Professionals

Expanding your professional network can significantly boost your job prospects. Actively participate in industry groups, attend job fairs, and leverage online platforms like LinkedIn to connect with recruiters and potential Canadian employers.

Step 5: Apply to Reputable Companies

Targets well-established and reputable companies like Canada Post, FedEx, Walmart, PepsiCo, and leading trucking firms when applying for driving positions. These organizations often provide competitive pay, comprehensive benefits packages, and opportunities for career advancement.

Following these steps can increase your chances of securing a top driving job in Canada.

How Can I Work in Canada as a Driver?

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To work as a driver in Canada, you'll generally need a valid Canadian work permit, especially if you're not a Canadian citizen or permanent resident. The specific requirements depend on the type of driving job and your nationality. For commercial driving roles like truck driving, you'll likely need a Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) from your prospective employer, demonstrating that hiring a foreign worker won't negatively impact the Canadian labor market.

Some driving jobs, particularly those covered under specific trade agreements, might be exempt from the LMIA requirement. Drivers may need to complete accredited training programs that cover Canadian safety regulations and driving conditions. The process can vary depending on whether the Canadian work permit is employer-specific or open; the former restricts employment to one employer, while the latter allows flexibility.

FAQs

How Can I Find Driving Jobs in Canada?

Numerous online job boards specialize in transportation and logistics, where you can filter by location and driver type. Networking with industry professionals through online platforms like LinkedIn or attending industry events can also open doors to unadvertised opportunities. Directly contacting trucking companies, bus companies, or delivery services is another effective way to find driving jobs in Canada.

Are There Resources For Newcomers to Canada Who Want to Work as Drivers?

Yes, several organizations offer resources and support for newcomers to Canada seeking driving jobs. These resources may include language training, assistance with licensing and certification processes, job search workshops, and networking opportunities within the transportation sector. Check with immigrant-serving organizations in your intended province or territory for specific programs and services.

What Are the Safety Regulations For Commercial Drivers in Canada?

Commercial drivers in Canada must adhere to strict safety regulations, including hours-of-service rules to prevent driver fatigue, regular vehicle inspections to ensure roadworthiness, and specific guidelines for loading and securing cargo. These regulations are enforced by provincial and territorial transportation authorities and are designed to ensure the safety of both drivers and the public. Drivers must know and comply with these regulations to maintain their licenses and operate commercially.