Uber issued transportation licence to operate in Toronto

The City of Toronto has issued a transportation licence to Uber allowing the ridesharing company to formally operate in the city.

Uber becomes the first private company to receive permission to operate under the city’s new vehicle-for-hire bylaw, according to a statement from city staff.

READ MORE: Uber regulations approved after marathon session at Toronto City Hall

Toronto municipal and licensing standards staff will now issue licences to Uber drivers. Officials will also conduct criminal background checks, review driver abstracts, check for vehicle inspection certificates and insurance.

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READ MORE: Toronto taxi industry remains upset over delays in regulating Uber

Other changes under the bylaw include increased flexibility for cab owners, ability to own more than one cab, the ability for cab companies to set fares for trips booked in advance and lower annual licensing fees.

The new regulations were approved during a lengthy May city council meeting.

READ MORE: Toronto taxi drivers defy mayor as anti-Uber protest rages on

Meanwhile, members of the United Taxi Workers’ Association plan on staging a peaceful protest in front of the licensing and standards office at the East York Civic Centre on Wednesday morning calling for staff to enforce the city’s new bylaw against Uber.