Processing of applications
Access to the Business Licence Office is by appointment only. Walk-in service and drop-in appointments are not available.
To help process your applications faster, we have moved to a digital approach for applications, enquiries, and payments.
- Submit and renew your business licence online
- Contact us online for customer enquiries
Note We will contact you with questions or next steps once we have processed your request.
You need a licence to transport people or property in Vancouver.
Licensing fees are pro-rated.
How to apply
- Determine the type of licence you need
- Fill out a licence application(s)
- Get the documents you need to apply for a licence
- Review the steps on how to apply for a business licence
Ride-hailing licence
Effective April 1, 2020, ride-hailing companies wishing to operate across municipalities in the Lower Mainland, may apply for an ride-hailing inter-municipal business licence, provided they have obtained a Provincial TNS licence External website, opens in new tab.
Types of licences
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Bike couriers
Bike couriers operate a self-propelled bicycle to transport goods.
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Charter vehicles
Charter vehicles transport people between specified locations on a prearranged basis.
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Driver instructor vehicles
Driver instruction vehicles are used to teach people how to drive.
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Horse drawn carriages
Horse-drawn carriages transport people along fixed travel routes and are drawn by up to two horses.
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Limousines
Limousines have specific features and transport people for special purposes on a prearranged basis.
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Pedicabs
Pedicabs are self-propelled or motor-assisted three-wheeled vehicles that transport up to two people (plus the driver).
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Quadricycle tours
Quadricycles are non-motorized, self-propelled four-wheeled cycles.
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Rental vehicles
Rental vehicles (U-drive) are rented by the hour, day, week, or month, without a driver.
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Ride-hailing (transportation network service)
Ride-hailing is booking rides and paying for car service through a smartphone app with a transportation network service.
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Taxicabs
Taxicabs transport people between locations, with a meter.
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Tow trucks
Tow trucks transport other vehicles between locations.
Steps we are taking to limit congestion on our roads
Our goal for limos, ride-hailing vehicles, and taxis in Vancouver is to complement transit and active travel, advance shared mobility, and contribute to an efficient and safe transportation system.
