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Tesla Referral Program Changes in 2025: What Canadian Buyers Need to Know

By
John Doe
Published on:  
August 25, 2025
Updated on:  
September 2, 2025
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Introduction: Why Tesla’s 2025 Referral Update Matters in Canada

If you're buying a Tesla in Canada—or sharing your Tesla referral link with friends—the 2025 referral program update changes what you get, how you earn, and how to make the most of it.

As of April 2025, Tesla has eliminated direct purchase discounts via referral links. Instead:

  • New buyers now receive a limited-time Full Self-Driving (FSD) trial.
  • Referrers earn $325 CAD in Tesla Credits per successful referral.
  • These credits can be used for Supercharging, software upgrades, accessories, and more.

Because Tesla’s promotions change frequently, always check your Tesla app or visit our Referral Program Tracker for Canada before placing an order or sharing your referral link.

What’s New in 2025: Quick Overview

  • No more cash discounts on vehicle purchases via referrals.
  • Buyer benefit: Time-limited FSD (Supervised) trial — varies by promotion.
  • Referrer reward: $325 CAD in Tesla Credits (posted after vehicle delivery).
  • 🔄 Credits usability: Supercharging, software, Tesla Shop, service, and future vehicle purchases.
  • Expiry: Tesla Credits expire 12 months after issue.

📌 Sources: ReferATesla Referral Guide

No More Purchase Discounts: What This Means

In 2025, Tesla Canada removed referral-based discounts. That means:

  • Vehicle MSRP remains unchanged — no line-item deduction.
  • No impact on government incentives — referral benefits don’t interfere with:
    • 🏛️ Federal iZEV rebate (up to $5,000)
    • 🇨🇦 Provincial rebates in BC, Québec, etc.
  • FSD trial replaces the cash incentive — actual value depends on trial length.

FSD Trial for New Buyers: Key Details

Trial Basics

  • Length: Varies. Typically 30 days via Tesla or up to 3 months via referral.
  • Activation: Applied automatically after delivery if you used a referral link.
  • Software: Requires v12.3+ to activate FSD (Supervised).

Supported Models

  • ✅ Model 3, Y, S, X
  • ⚠️ Cybertruck eligibility varies — check in app

Notes

  • FSD (Supervised) is not autonomous.
  • Trial is non-transferable and expires automatically unless purchased.

📌 Compare FSD vs Enhanced Autopilot in our Tesla Software Guide.

Referrer Credits: How to Earn and Use Them

  • 💰 Amount: $325 CAD per successful referral.
  • Eligible Vehicles: Model 3, Y, S, X, and Cybertruck (custom or inventory orders).
  • 📲 Where to Track: Tesla App → Referrals .
  • Expiry: Credits expire 12 months after posting.
  • 🔒 Non-transferable: Tied to the referrer’s Tesla account.

What Can You Spend Credits On?

You can redeem your Tesla Credits in several useful ways:

  • Supercharging
    • Credits are automatically applied at Tesla Superchargers before charging your backup payment method.
    • Ideal for long-distance drivers or condo/apartment owners without home charging.
  • Software Upgrades
    • Apply credits toward features like Enhanced Autopilot, Full Self-Driving (FSD), or acceleration boosts (where available).
    • These features can be added post-delivery through the Tesla app.
  • Accessories and Apparel
    • Use credits in the Tesla Shop for items like all-weather mats, roof racks, apparel, mobile chargers, or interior upgrades.
  • Service and Maintenance
    • Redeem credits for routine service items such as tire rotations, cabin filters, wiper replacements, and some out-of-warranty repairs.
  • Future Tesla Vehicle Purchase
    • If you're planning to buy another Tesla, credits may be applied to reduce your purchase cost. Check eligibility in the app at order time.

👉 Pro Tip: Use expiring credits on Supercharging or lower-cost accessories if you’re not planning a big upgrade soon.

How to Share Your Tesla Referral Link (Step-by-Step)

  1. Open the Tesla app
  2. Tap your Menu icon → Click Refer and Earn
  3. Click on the Refer Now button
  4. Click your Copy Link button
  5. Send it to your buyer via text, email, or social
  6. Make sure they start their order from your link

Ethical Tip: Be transparent. Let your buyer know they'll get the FSD trial, and you’ll earn credits.

Best Ways to Use Tesla Credits

  • Frequent Supercharging: Great if you live in a condo or drive long distances.
  • Offset Software Upgrades: Use credits to reduce the cost of FSD or EAP.
  • Shop Smart: Apply credits during in-app sales or clearance events.
  • Service Benefits: Apply toward brake service, tire rotation, etc.
  • Future Tesla Purchase: Save credits if you're planning to buy again soon.

Do Referral Rewards Stack With Canadian EV Incentives?

Yes — Tesla referral rewards do not affect MSRP, so they can be combined with Canadian EV incentives, as long as your purchase meets the rebate eligibility criteria.

Here’s a summary of how they stack up:

  • British Columbia (BC) Rebate
    • Provides up to $4,000 in additional provincial EV rebates.
    • Eligibility and vehicle price caps may apply.
  • Québec Incentives
    • Offers up to $4,000 for qualifying vehicles.
    • Additional rebates are available for home charging equipment.

📝 Always verify the latest rebate amounts and eligibility rules on federal or provincial government websites before you order.

Common Questions (Canada)

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about Tesla’s 2025 referral program in Canada:

  • When do referral credits appear in the app?
    Typically within a few days after the referred vehicle is delivered.
  • Do referral credits expire?
    Yes — they usually expire 12 months after the date they’re issued.
  • Can referral credits be transferred to another person?
    No — credits are non-transferable and are tied to your Tesla account.
  • Can more than one person get credit for the same referral?
    No — only one referral can be applied per purchase. The last valid link used is the one that counts.
  • Do leases qualify for referral rewards?
    Often yes, but always confirm in the app or with Tesla directly before relying on rewards.
  • Can I refer someone who’s buying an inventory vehicle?
    Yes — both inventory and custom orders are eligible for referral rewards.
  • Are used Teslas eligible for referral rewards?
    Usually not. Tesla often excludes used vehicle sales from referral credit eligibility. Check the app for current terms.
  • What if a buyer forgets to use my referral link?
    They may be able to contact Tesla before delivery to have the referrer added. After delivery, it’s typically too late.

Checklist: Maximize the 2025 Referral Program

For Buyers:

  • 🔎 Check referral perks in the app before ordering
  • ✅ Use your referrer’s link before configuring your Tesla
  • 📱 Confirm FSD trial activation post-delivery
  • 💸 Stack applicable federal and provincial incentives

For Referrers:

  • 📤 Share your referral link clearly and ethically
  • ⏱️ Set a calendar alert for credit expiry
  • 🧾 Plan your credit usage in advance
  • 📍 Monitor referral activity weekly in the app

Stay Updated

Bottom Line

In Canada’s 2025 Tesla referral program, direct discounts are gone, but FSD trials and $325 CAD in Tesla Credits are in. To get the most value:

  • Start your order through a valid referral link.
  • Use Tesla Credits strategically before they expire.
  • Confirm benefits in your Tesla app — terms can change.

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