How to Get and Renew Your Ontario Driver's License

What you need to get an Ontario driver's license

To get your first Ontario driver's license, you need to pass a written test on road signs and traffic laws, then a road test with a licensed examiner. You'll also need to provide proof of identity (a birth certificate or passport), proof of Ontario residency (a utility bill or lease), and your Social Insurance Number. The process takes place at a ServiceOntario office or DriveTest centre, and you cannot skip the written test even if you've held a license in another province.

If you already have a valid driver's license from another Canadian province or territory, you can exchange it for an Ontario license without taking the tests. You'll still need to visit ServiceOntario with your current license, proof of residency, and your SIN. The exchange takes about 15 minutes and costs less than the full licensing process.

If your license is from outside Canada, Ontario will not recognize it. You'll need to take both the written and road tests, the same as a first-time driver. Some countries have reciprocal agreements that let you skip the written test — check with ServiceOntario before you book your tests.

Key Takeaways

First-time Ontario drivers must pass a written test on road signs and traffic laws, then a road test with an examiner at a DriveTest centre.
Drivers with a valid license from another Canadian province can exchange it for an Ontario license without testing, but must bring proof of residency and their SIN.
Ontario driver's licenses expire every five years for most drivers, and you can renew by mail, online, or in person at ServiceOntario.
You must renew your license before it expires; driving on an expired license is illegal and can result in a fine.
If your license is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can request a replacement at ServiceOntario or online through the ServiceOntario website.

The written test and what it covers

The written test has 40 multiple-choice questions about Ontario traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You need to score at least 80 percent to pass. The test covers topics like right-of-way rules, speed limits, parking regulations, and what different road signs mean. You can take the test in English or French, and ServiceOntario offers the test in other languages through an interpreter you arrange yourself.

You can study for the written test using the official MTO (Ministry of Transportation Ontario) handbook, which is free and available online or in print at ServiceOntario offices. Many people also use practice tests online or through apps to prepare. You're allowed to take the written test as many times as you need, but you must wait at least one day between attempts. Once you pass the written test, you have one year to book and pass your road test.

The road test and booking your appointment

The road test lasts about 40 minutes and takes place on public roads near a DriveTest centre. An examiner sits in the passenger seat and watches you perform basic driving tasks: starting the car, turning, stopping, parking, and following traffic laws. You must bring your own vehicle, and it must be in safe working condition with valid insurance. The examiner will check your mirrors, lights, wipers, and brakes before you start.

You book your road test appointment online through the DriveTest website or by calling 1-888-570-6110. Wait times vary by location and season; in busy areas, you may wait several weeks. You must bring your written test pass certificate, a valid piece of photo ID, and proof of insurance. If you fail the road test, you can book another appointment, but you must wait at least two weeks before retesting.

Renewing your Ontario driver's license

Ontario driver's licenses expire every five years. You can renew online through the ServiceOntario website if your license is not suspended, you have no medical conditions that need reassessment, and you have not changed your name. Online renewal takes about 10 minutes and costs less than renewing in person. Your new license arrives by mail within 10 business days.

If you cannot renew online, you can renew by mail by sending your current license and the renewal form to ServiceOntario, or renew in person at any ServiceOntario office. In-person renewal takes about 15 minutes. You do not need to take a new written or road test to renew — the tests are only required when you first get your license or when you exchange a license from outside Ontario.

You can renew your license up to 90 days before it expires. If your license has already expired, you can still renew it, but you cannot legally drive until the new license arrives. Driving on an expired license can result in a fine.

Replacing a lost, stolen, or damaged license

If your license is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can request a replacement online through the ServiceOntario website, by mail, or in person at a ServiceOntario office. Online replacement is the fastest option and takes about 10 business days. You do not need to take any tests — you're straightforward getting a new copy of your existing license with a new card number.

If your license was stolen, you may want to report the theft to local police, though this is not required to get a replacement. Keep the police report number if you have one. The replacement license costs the same as a renewal and is valid for the remainder of your original five-year term.

Medical conditions and license restrictions

If you have a medical condition that affects your ability to drive — such as vision problems, epilepsy, or a heart condition — you must report it to ServiceOntario. Depending on the condition, your license may be issued with restrictions (such as "corrective lenses must be worn" or "daylight driving only"), or you may be asked to take a medical examination or a road test to prove you can drive safely.

Some conditions require you to renew your license more frequently than every five years. For example, if you have diabetes managed by insulin, your license may be valid for only one or two years. You'll receive a letter from ServiceOntario explaining any restrictions or shorter renewal periods. Driving with a medical condition you have not reported, or ignoring a restriction on your license, can result in a fine and suspension.

Suspensions, cancellations, and reinstatement

Your Ontario driver's license can be suspended or cancelled for reasons including unpaid traffic fines, accumulating too many demerit points, driving under the influence, or failing to pay child support. A suspension is temporary; a cancellation is permanent until you meet specific conditions set by ServiceOntario or the courts.

If your license is suspended, you cannot legally drive. To find out why your license was suspended and what you need to do to get it back, contact ServiceOntario directly or check your account on the ServiceOntario website. Reinstatement usually requires paying outstanding fines, completing a driver improvement course, or meeting other conditions. The process and timeline depend on the reason for the suspension.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive in Ontario with a license from another country?

You can drive with a valid international driving permit or a license from your home country for up to 60 days after you become an Ontario resident. After that, you must have an Ontario license. If you plan to stay longer, you should take the written and road tests and get an Ontario license before the 60 days are up.

What happens if I let my license expire?

You cannot legally drive with an expired license, and you can be fined if you're caught. You can still renew an expired license at ServiceOntario, and the new license will be valid for five years from the date you renew it. There is no penalty for renewing late, but you must not drive until your new license arrives.

Do I need to take the road test again if I move to Ontario from another province?

No. If you have a valid driver's license from another Canadian province or territory, you can exchange it for an Ontario license without taking any tests. Bring your current license, proof of Ontario residency, and your SIN to ServiceOntario. The exchange takes about 15 minutes.

How much does an Ontario driver's license cost?

The cost varies depending on whether you're getting a first license, renewing, or replacing a lost license. Online renewal is the least expensive option. Exact fees change periodically, so check the ServiceOntario website or call 1-800-387-3556 for current pricing.

Can I renew my license if I have unpaid traffic tickets?

If you have unpaid fines, your license may be suspended, and you will not be able to renew it until the fines are paid. Contact ServiceOntario or the court that issued the ticket to find out the status of your fines and what you need to do to resolve them.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.