How to Get a Driver's License Abstract in Ontario

What a driver's license abstract is and how to order one

A driver's license abstract is an official record from ServiceOntario that shows your driving history — violations, collisions, demerit points, and license suspensions. It is not the same as your license itself. You order it from ServiceOntario, and they mail it to you or you can pick it up in person at a ServiceOntario office.

The abstract is a single document, usually two to three pages, that covers a set time period (typically the last five or ten years, depending on what you request). Insurance companies, employers, and courts often ask for this document as proof of your driving record. You can order it for yourself or authorize someone else to pick it up on your behalf.

ServiceOntario charges a fee for the abstract — the cost varies depending on whether you want a five-year or ten-year history and whether you pick it up or have it mailed. You can order online, by phone, by mail, or in person at a ServiceOntario office.

Key Takeaways

A driver's license abstract is an official record of your driving history issued by ServiceOntario and includes violations, collisions, and demerit points.
You can order an abstract online through ServiceOntario's website, by phone at 1-800-387-3445, by mail, or in person at any ServiceOntario office.
The abstract covers either a five-year or ten-year period depending on what you request, and ServiceOntario charges a fee for this service.
Delivery takes about five to ten business days by mail, or you can pick it up in person at a ServiceOntario office within a few business days of ordering.

Ordering online through ServiceOntario

The fastest way to order a driver's license abstract is through the ServiceOntario website. Go to ontario.ca/driversabstract and select "Order a driver's abstract online." You will need your Ontario driver's license number and date of birth to start the order.

During the online process, you choose whether you want a five-year or ten-year abstract. You also select how you want to receive it: mail delivery or in-person pickup at a ServiceOntario office. If you choose mail, provide the mailing address where you want it sent. If you choose pickup, select which ServiceOntario office is most convenient for you.

Pay the fee online using a credit or debit card. After payment, you will receive a confirmation number. Keep this number — you may need it to track your order or pick it up. The abstract will be mailed within five to ten business days, or ready for pickup within a few business days, depending on the office.

Ordering by phone or mail

You can also order a driver's license abstract by calling ServiceOntario at 1-800-387-3445. A representative will ask for your driver's license number, date of birth, and the time period you need (five or ten years). They will also ask how you want to receive the abstract and take payment information over the phone.

If you prefer to order by mail, read the form from ontario.ca or request one by phone. Fill out the form with your driver's license number, date of birth, and the years you want covered. Include a cheque or money order made payable to the Minister of Finance, and mail it to the address listed on the form. Processing by mail takes longer — typically two to three weeks from the time ServiceOntario receives your form.

Picking up in person at a ServiceOntario office

You can walk into any ServiceOntario office and order an abstract on the spot. Bring your Ontario driver's license or a piece of photo identification. Tell the staff member you want to order a driver's license abstract and whether you need five or ten years of history.

You can pay in cash, by debit card, or by credit card at the office. Some offices will print the abstract when ready if it is a straightforward request; others will mail it to you or have it ready for pickup within a few business days. Ask the staff member which option applies at that office before you pay.

What information appears on the abstract

The abstract lists your name, date of birth, driver's license number, and license class. It then shows a chronological record of any traffic violations, collisions, and demerit points during the time period you requested. Each entry includes the date, the violation or collision type, the location, and the demerit points assigned (if any).

The abstract also shows any license suspensions or restrictions that were in effect during that period. If you have a clean driving record with no violations or collisions, the abstract will state that clearly. Insurance companies and employers use this document to assess your driving history, so accuracy matters — if you see an error, contact ServiceOntario to request a correction.

Costs and delivery times

ServiceOntario charges different fees depending on the time period and delivery method. A five-year abstract costs less than a ten-year abstract. Mail delivery is usually cheaper than in-person pickup. The exact fee changes periodically, so check ontario.ca/driversabstract for current pricing before you order.

Delivery by mail typically takes five to ten business days from the time you place your order. In-person pickup at a ServiceOntario office is usually faster — the abstract is ready within two to five business days. If you order by phone or mail, add extra time for processing. If you need the abstract urgently, ordering online and choosing in-person pickup is usually the quickest option.

Authorizing someone else to pick up your abstract

You do not have to pick up the abstract yourself. You can authorize another person to collect it on your behalf. When you order, provide that person's name and contact information if the system asks for it, or call ServiceOntario to add an authorized picker after you have placed your order.

The authorized person will need to bring a piece of photo identification when they pick up the abstract at the ServiceOntario office. They do not need a letter from you, but some offices may ask for one — call ahead to confirm what that office requires. If you are having the abstract mailed, it will go to the address you provided, regardless of who picks it up.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a driver's license abstract stay valid?

ServiceOntario does not put an expiration date on the abstract itself, but insurance companies and employers often treat an abstract as current only if it was issued within the last 30 to 90 days. If you need it for a specific purpose, ask the person requesting it how recent it needs to be.

Can I order an abstract for someone else?

No, you cannot order an abstract using someone else's driver's license number without their permission. ServiceOntario requires the license holder or an authorized representative to place the order. If you are ordering on behalf of someone else, they must authorize you first.

What if my abstract shows an error or a violation I do not recognize?

Contact ServiceOntario at 1-800-387-3445 to report the error. They will investigate and correct the record if the error is confirmed. Keep a copy of your abstract for your records so you can compare it to future orders and catch any discrepancies early.

Do I need a ten-year abstract or a five-year one?

Most insurance companies and employers ask for a five-year abstract. A ten-year abstract is useful if you are explore for a job that requires a longer history or if you are involved in a legal matter. Ask whoever is requesting the abstract which time period they need before you order.

Can I get an abstract if my license is suspended or expired?

Yes, you can order an abstract even if your license is currently suspended or expired. The abstract shows your driving history during the period you request, regardless of your license status now. You will still need your license number and date of birth to place the order.

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.