What Every Driver Needs to Know.
An Ontario drivers license suspension can occur for various reasons, and knowing the cause of your suspension is the first step toward resolving it.
Common reasons for license suspension in Ontario include:
Unpaid Fines and Penalties
One of the most frequent causes of Ontario drivers license suspension is unpaid traffic tickets or court-ordered fines. The province takes financial obligations seriously, and failure to pay can result in an administrative suspension.
Demerit Points Accumulation
Ontario uses a demerit point system to track driving infractions. For fully licensed drivers (G license holders), accumulating 15 or more points triggers a 30-day suspension.
Medical Conditions
Certain medical conditions that affect your ability to drive safely can result in a suspension.
Criminal Convictions
Impaired driving, dangerous driving, and other Criminal Code offenses result in automatic license suspension. These cases typically require more complex reinstatement procedures.
Insurance-Related Issues
Driving without valid insurance or failing to maintain proper coverage can lead to license suspension in Ontario.
The Impact of License Suspension on Immigrants and New Canadians
Employment Challenges for Newcomers
A suspended Ontario drivers license can limit your employment opportunities and potentially jeopardize your current job.
Family Responsibilities and Daily Life
As a newcomer establishing your life in Canada, you likely rely on your vehicle for essential tasks: taking children to school, attending medical appointments, grocery shopping, and connecting with your community. A license suspension disrupts these fundamental activities.
Integration and Independence
Driving represents independence and successful integration into Canadian society. For many immigrants who worked hard to obtain their Ontario drivers license, a suspension can feel like a significant setback in their Canadian journey.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Reinstate Your Ontario Drivers License Online
The Ontario government has made significant improvements to allow drivers to handle many Ontario drivers licensematters from home. Here’s how you can work toward lifting your suspension without visiting a ServiceOntario location.
Step 1: Determine the Reason for Your Suspension
You can check your driver’s record online through the ServiceOntario website or by calling the MTO directly.
Log into your ServiceOntario account and request your driver’s abstract.
Step 2: Address the Underlying Issue
Unpaid Fines:
- Pay outstanding fines online through the Ontario Court Services website
- Set up a payment plan if you cannot pay the full amount immediately
- Keep confirmation numbers and receipts for all payments
Demerit Points:
- Complete any required driver improvement courses
- Wait for the suspension period to
For Administrative Suspensions:
- Submit required documentation electronically
- Complete any mandatory programs
- Provide proof of insurance if required
Step 3: Pay the Reinstatement Fee
Ontario requires a reinstatement fee to restore your driving privileges. The fee varies depending on the type of suspension:
- Administrative suspensions: $198
- Criminal Code suspensions: $281
- Other suspensions: Fees vary
Step 4: Confirm Your Ontario Drivers License Status
Do this to confirm:
Calling the MTO directly
Checking your online ServiceOntario account
Ordering an updated driver’s abstract
