Uber is hoping second time is a charm as it looks to expand its ridesharing service throughout British Columbia.

The company, which is currently not allowed to operate outside the Lower Mainland and Fraser Valley as its initial expansion application was denied, is hoping to acquire ReRyde’s licence that could pave the way for operations in places like Kamloops, Kelowna, and Victoria.

“We are focused on Kelowna and Victoria but understand there is demand for safe, reliable, and affordable transportation services across the province,” an Uber spokesperson told NL News.

Two years ago, ReRyde was approved to operate everywhere except the Lower Mainland and Fraser Valley, however, the Richmond-based company did not launch service.

The PTB will now determine if Uber “is a fit and proper person” to provide ride-sharing services and if it is “capable of providing that service” and not if it addresses public need or promotes sound economic conditions, which were assessed as part of ReRyde’s successful application.

“Since Uber’s previous application was for a new licence, the Board applied the triple test and determined that at time of the application there was no public need for another ride hailing service and that granting the application would not promote sound economic conditions,” the PTB said, in a statement.

“A licence transfer application does not involve adding a new licence to the existing pool, and the Act only requires that the Board look at whether the Transferee is fit, proper and capable.”

They say if Uber meets that criteria and if it is approved, the PTB may cancel ReRyde’s licence and issue a new one to Uber.

“As this is a licence transfer application, it would involve the transfer of ReRyde’s licence in its entirety, including all current terms and conditions,” the PTB added.

People can have their say on the application until Sept. 19, but it is not clear when a decision will be made.

There are currently two ridesharing companies that are or have operated in Kamloops.

Uride launched service in June, while Kabu is planning to re-launch this summer, after it blamed COVID-19 for its inability to make inroads following its initial July 2020 launch.