The Ontario driver's license process process starts with ServiceOntario
To get an Ontario driver's license, you visit a ServiceOntario office or use their online system to submit your information, pass a vision test, and pay the fee. The process differs depending on whether you are a new driver, moving to Ontario from another province or country, or renewing an existing license. Most people complete the written knowledge test and vision screening at the same ServiceOntario location where they submit their process.
You cannot complete the entire process online — you must appear in person for the vision test and to provide original identity documents. ServiceOntario locations are found in most towns and cities across Ontario, and you can book an appointment through their website to avoid waiting in line.
Key Takeaways
- You must visit a ServiceOntario office in person to show original identity documents, pass a vision test, and pay the process fee.
- New drivers in Ontario must pass the written knowledge test (G1 test) before they can take the road test for a full license.
- If you hold a valid license from another Canadian province or country, you may be able to skip the written test and go straight to a road test.
- The total cost varies by license type and whether you are new to Ontario or renewing, ranging from roughly $90 to $150 for a standard five-year license.
- Appointment slots at ServiceOntario fill quickly in busy areas, so booking online in advance is faster than walk-in service.
Documents you need to bring to ServiceOntario
ServiceOntario requires proof of identity, proof of Ontario residency, and proof of your Social Insurance Number (SIN). You must bring original documents — photocopies are not accepted. The most common documents are a passport or birth certificate for identity, a recent utility bill or lease for residency, and your SIN card or a letter from Service Canada.
If you are explore as a new driver with no previous license, you need at least one primary identity document (passport, birth certificate, or citizenship certificate) and one secondary document (such as a health card, school ID, or bank statement). If you are transferring from another province, bring your current license from that province plus the same residency and SIN proof.
Bring the originals in person. ServiceOntario staff will verify them and return them to you. Do not mail documents ahead — you must show them at your appointment.
The written knowledge test (G1) for new Ontario drivers
If you have never held a driver's license in Ontario or any other Canadian province, you must pass the G1 written test before you can drive on Ontario roads. The test covers road signs, traffic laws, safe driving practices, and Ontario-specific regulations. You answer 40 multiple-choice questions, and you need 32 correct answers (80 percent) to pass.
ServiceOntario provides a free study guide called the Official Driver's Handbook, available online and in print at ServiceOntario offices. Many people study this handbook for one to two weeks before taking the test. You can take the test on the same day as your appointment if you feel ready, or you can book a separate appointment to take it later.
The test costs roughly $15 and is offered in multiple languages. If you do not pass on your first attempt, you can retake it — there is no limit on the number of attempts, though you pay the fee each time.
Moving to Ontario from another Canadian province
If you hold a valid driver's license from another Canadian province or territory, you do not need to take the written G1 test. You can go directly to a road test for a full Ontario license, or you can convert your license to an Ontario license without a road test if your current license is valid and you meet Ontario's requirements.
Bring your current license, proof of Ontario residency, and proof of your SIN to ServiceOntario. Staff will review your license and tell you whether you can convert it directly or must take a road test. Most people with a valid license from another province can convert without a test, though some provinces have different standards, so ServiceOntario may require a road test to confirm your skills.
explore with a license from outside Canada
If your license is from outside Canada, the process depends on whether your country has a reciprocal agreement with Ontario. Countries with reciprocal agreements include the United States, France, Germany, Japan, South Korea, and several others. If your country is on the list, you may be able to convert your license without taking a road test.
You must bring your original foreign license, an International Driving Permit (IDP) if your license is not in English or French, proof of Ontario residency, and proof of your SIN. ServiceOntario will assess whether your license meets Ontario standards. If your country does not have a reciprocal agreement, you will need to take the G1 written test and then the road test to get a full Ontario license.
An International Driving Permit is issued by your home country's transportation authority and translates your license into English and French. You obtain it from your country's motor vehicle office before you move to Ontario — ServiceOntario cannot issue one.
Booking your ServiceOntario appointment and paying the fee
Book your appointment online through the ServiceOntario website by selecting your nearest office, choosing a date and time, and entering your contact information. Online booking is faster than calling or visiting in person. Appointments typically fill two to four weeks in advance in urban areas, so book as soon as you know your moving date or when you are ready to explore.
Bring payment to your appointment — ServiceOntario accepts debit cards, credit cards, and cash. A standard five-year Ontario driver's license costs roughly $90 to $110 for a new applicant. If you are converting from another province or country, the fee may be lower. Renewal fees are different from new process fees, so ask ServiceOntario about your specific situation when you book.
If you cannot make your appointment, cancel it online at least 24 hours in advance so the slot opens for someone else. Cancelling online is faster than calling.
What happens after you pass and receive your license
Once you pass the vision test and submit all required documents, ServiceOntario issues your license on the spot or mails it to you within two weeks, depending on the office and whether additional verification is needed. Your license is valid for five years from the date of issue. You can drive when ready with your temporary paper license while you wait for the plastic card to arrive by mail.
If you are a new driver who passed the G1 test but have not yet taken the road test, you receive a G1 license that allows you to drive only with a fully licensed driver in the passenger seat. You must then book a road test through a private testing center (ServiceOntario does not administer road tests). Once you pass the road test, you receive a full G license.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I book my ServiceOntario appointment online or do I have to call?
Online booking through the ServiceOntario website is the fastest method and shows available time slots when ready. You can also call ServiceOntario or visit an office in person, but phone lines are often busy and walk-in wait times can be long. Booking online takes about five minutes.
What if I fail the vision test at ServiceOntario?
If you do not pass the vision screening, ServiceOntario will not issue a license. You must see an eye care professional (optometrist or ophthalmologist), get a corrective prescription if needed, and return to ServiceOntario with proof that you now meet the vision standard. You do not pay a second process fee — you only pay for the eye exam itself.
How long does it take to get my plastic license card in the mail?
Most plastic license cards arrive within two weeks of your appointment. ServiceOntario gives you a temporary paper license to use when ready. If your card does not arrive within three weeks, contact ServiceOntario to check the status. Mail delays can happen, especially during busy periods.
Do I need a road test if I am converting my license from another province?
Most people converting from another Canadian province do not need a road test. ServiceOntario reviews your current license and converts it if it meets Ontario standards. However, some provinces have different testing standards, so ServiceOntario may require a road test in certain cases. Staff will tell you at your appointment whether a test is required.
What if I moved to Ontario but my documents still show my old address?
You need at least one document showing your Ontario address — typically a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last three months. Your identity documents (passport, birth certificate) can show your old address. Bring both your old-address documents and your new Ontario address proof to ServiceOntario.