Tracking Mileage for Tax Deductions

If you use your personal vehicle for work or business, you may be able to claim vehicle (mileage) expenses on your tax return. The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) requires a detailed mileage log to support this claim. Using a mileage tracking app can make this easier and help you stay organized. However, if you are an employee, you need a T2200 Declaration of Conditions of Employment from  your employer in order to report expenses on your tax return.


Infographic explaining how to track mileage for tax deductions in Canada, including what counts as business travel, how to log kilometers, and recordkeeping tips.


Does CRA Accept Mileage Apps?

CRA does not officially approve specific apps. However, CRA does accept digital mileage logs as long as they include all required details. Many commonly used mileage apps are designed to meet these requirements.


What Information Must Your Mileage Log Include?

  • Date of each trip
  • Start and end location
  • Purpose of the trip (work-related)
  • Kilometers driven
  • Business vs personal use

Good mileage apps automatically record most of this information and allow you to export reports if CRA asks for proof.


Recommended Mileage Tracking Apps

Many Canadian taxpayers successfully use the following apps:

Driversnote – Automatically tracks trips and creates CRA-ready reports
MileIQ – Easy swipe to mark trips as business or personal
Everlance – Tracks mileage and expenses together
MileLog – Simple tracking with exportable reports
QuickBooks Mileage Tracker – Built into QuickBooks for those already using it

These apps work on most smartphones and allow you to download mileage reports as PDF or Excel files.


Important Tips to Avoid CRA Issues

• Start tracking at the beginning of the year
• Review and label your trips regularly
• Keep copies of your exported mileage reports
• Record your vehicle’s odometer reading at the start and end of the year

Please note: trips from home to a regular work location are not deductible. Only travel between work locations or clients qualifies.


Need help with your tax situation? Book a free 15-minute consultation to discuss your options.



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