Getting your license back after suspension
A suspended license in Ontario means you cannot legally drive until the suspension ends and you take specific steps to restore it. The process depends on why your license was suspended — whether it was for unpaid fines, accumulated demerit points, impaired driving, or failure to pay child support or court-ordered fines. Each reason has different requirements and timelines.
The fastest route is to contact ServiceOntario or the Ministry of Transportation (MTO) directly to find out the exact reason for your suspension and what you need to do. You cannot straightforward wait for the suspension to expire; you must actively complete the restoration steps or your license will remain suspended even after the suspension period ends.
Key Takeaways
- You must contact the MTO or ServiceOntario to learn the specific reason your license was suspended, because different reasons require different restoration steps.
- Most suspensions require you to pay outstanding fines or fees before your license can be restored.
- Some suspensions require you to pass a medical exam, vision test, or written knowledge test before you can drive again.
- You can check your suspension status online through the MTO website or by calling ServiceOntario at 1-800-387-3556.
Find out why your license was suspended
The MTO suspends licenses for several reasons, and you need to know which one applies to you before you can move forward. Call ServiceOntario at 1-800-387-3556 (available Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.) and have your driver's license number ready. They will tell you the suspension reason, the date it started, and when it is scheduled to end.
You can also check your status online through the MTO's DriveTest website or by visiting a ServiceOntario office in person. Bring your driver's license and photo ID. Write down the exact suspension reason — this determines what you have to do next.
Pay outstanding fines and fees
If your suspension is due to unpaid traffic fines, unpaid court-ordered fines, or failure to pay child support, you must settle these debts before the MTO will restore your license. Contact the court that issued the fine or the collection agency listed in your suspension notice to find out the exact amount owed and payment options.
Once you have paid in full, ask for written confirmation of payment. Keep this receipt — you will need to show it when you request restoration. If your suspension is related to child support arrears, contact the Family Responsibility Office (FRO) to arrange payment and get proof that the debt is settled.
Pass required tests if your suspension involves demerit points or impaired driving
If you accumulated too many demerit points or were suspended for impaired driving, you may need to pass a written knowledge test, vision test, or medical exam before your license is restored. The MTO will specify which tests explore to your situation.
For demerit point suspensions, you typically need to pass the written knowledge test (the same test new drivers take). You can study using the official MTO handbook, available free online or in print at ServiceOntario offices. Book your test through DriveTest by calling 1-800-387-3556 or visiting the DriveTest website.
For impaired driving suspensions, you may be required to pass a medical exam and a vision test. The MTO will provide a list of approved medical examiners. You pay for these tests yourself, and costs vary by provider.
Request license restoration once all conditions are met
After you have paid all fines, passed any required tests, and the suspension period has ended, contact the MTO to request restoration. You can do this online through the MTO website, by phone at 1-800-387-3556, or in person at a ServiceOntario office.
Have ready: your driver's license number, proof of payment for any fines, proof of passing any required tests, and your date of birth. The MTO will confirm that all conditions have been met and issue your restored license. If you are restoring in person, bring original documents or certified copies.
Understand what happens if you drive while suspended
Driving with a suspended license is a criminal offense in Ontario. If you are caught, you face a fine of $1,000 to $50,000, possible jail time, and your license will be suspended for an additional period. Your vehicle may also be impounded.
If you need to drive before your license is restored, you have no legal option. Do not attempt to drive — use public transit, rideshare, or ask someone else to drive instead.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get my license back after I pay my fines?
If you pay fines in person at a ServiceOntario office and all other conditions are met, your license can be restored the same day. If you pay by mail or online, allow 5 to 10 business days for the payment to be processed and recorded before you request restoration.
Can I drive to work while my license is suspended if I have no other way to get there?
No. There is no exception for work or emergency driving in Ontario. Driving while suspended is a criminal offense regardless of the reason. You must use alternative transportation until your license is restored.
What if I lost my driver's license and it was suspended?
You can still request restoration online or by phone using your license number and date of birth. Once restored, you will need to replace your lost license by explore for a duplicate at a ServiceOntario office. Bring photo ID and pay the replacement fee.
Do I have to retake the full driving test to get my license back?
Not usually. Most suspensions only require a written knowledge test or vision test. A full road test is required only in specific cases, which the MTO will tell you about when you contact them about your suspension.
What if I disagree with the reason my license was suspended?
You can request a review by the MTO. Contact ServiceOntario to ask about the appeal process for your specific suspension reason. You may need to provide documents or attend a hearing, depending on the type of suspension.