Event and wedding minibus shuttle

Offer a smaller minibus for weddings, nights out, tours and sports trips, mostly evenings and weekends.

Startup costC$15k to C$60k
Monthly revenueC$1.5k to C$7k
Time needed8+ h/week
First incomeMonths
  • C$15k-60k
  • Side hustle
  • Out and about
  • Licence or permit needed

Estimates for a small start in Canada, not guarantees.

What it is

A part-time minibus charter service for planned group events. You shuttle guests between venues, take groups on winery or brewery tours, or run team trips, working mainly weekends and evenings.

Your first three steps

  1. Check with your municipality and provincial regulator which licence applies to charter or limousine-style passenger work, and which driver's licence class your vehicle needs
  2. Get quotes for commercial passenger insurance and look at used 8 to 14 passenger vans
  3. Introduce yourself to wedding venues, planners and local tour companies and set a simple hourly rate card
Who pays

Couples and wedding planners, party groups, corporate event organizers, sports clubs and community groups.

How it makes money

Hourly charter rate with a minimum booking, or a fixed price per event. Add-ons such as waiting time or extra distance can be priced separately.

Skills that help
  • Reliable, safe driving
  • Friendly customer service
  • Planning routes and timings
  • Handling groups calmly
Watch out for
  • Licence rules for charter work differ by province and city, so check before you take any paid bookings
  • Personal car insurance will not cover paid passenger carrying; you need commercial cover
  • Rules on alcohol in vehicles for party groups, which vary locally
  • Demand is seasonal, with busy summers and quieter winters in many areas
  • Late-night driving and fatigue, so plan your hours carefully

🔒 Full research report for Canada

Real cost breakdown with current prices, licences and registration checklist, local competition, pricing, break-even and a 30-day launch plan, with sources.

Coming soon

Questions people ask

How much does it cost to start an event minibus shuttle?

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $15,000 to $60,000, depending on the minibus you choose, commercial insurance and any licensing. Get quotes for your own vehicle and area before committing.

Do I need a licence to run a wedding or party minibus in Canada?

Things to check include charter licence rules in your province and city before taking paid bookings, commercial insurance since personal car cover will not cover paid passengers, and local rules on alcohol in vehicles for party groups.

How much can a part-time event minibus earn?

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $1,500 to $7,000, depending on how many events you book and your pricing. Demand is seasonal, with busy summers and quieter winters in many areas.

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