Visiting or Moving to Ontario?

If you are a visitor to Ontario and want to drive while you are here, you must be at least 16 years old and have a valid driver's licence from your own province, state or country. If you are from another country and visiting Ontario for more than three months, you need an International Driver's Permit from your own country or you may have to apply for an Ontario driver's licence, depending on your length of stay. You should also ensure your automobile insurance coverage is sufficient, and that you carry the original or a true copy of the vehicle registration or Certificate of Title for your vehicle.

For additional information on highway conditions and travel routes, rules of the road and other topics of interest for visitors, go to our Traveller's Information page.

New Residents

If you are a new resident in Ontario and have a valid driver's licence from another province, state or country, you can use it for up to 60 days after you move to Ontario. If you want to keep driving in Ontario, you must get an Ontario driver's licence. You must use your Ontario licence when you are issued one. New Ontario residents have 30 days before they have to register their vehicles and get Ontario licence plates and vehicle permit. Click here for more information on Getting an Ontario Driver's Licence or Licensing a Vehicle in Ontario.

Accessible Parking Permits for Visitors

While in Ontario, disabled visitors may use their currently valid permit, number plates, marker or device, bearing the international symbol for access for the disabled, issued by the visitor's home jurisdiction.

A visitor may also obtain an Ontario visitor's permit if they can prove that they hold a currently valid permit, number plates, marker or device, bearing the international symbol for access for the disabled, issued by the visitor's home jurisdiction, or if they provide personal identification with their year of birth, and proof of their disability from their home jurisdiction (eg. Out of province hospital card, medical certificate, medical insurance document, or other appropriate medical document).

• Getting an Accessible Parking Permit

• Licensing a Vehicle that is Registered in Another Jurisdiction

• The Official Driver's Handbook - is a publication that provides information on Ontario's rules of the road and safe driving techniques and practices. It also provides information on how to get a driver's licence and how to register a vehicle. It is a must read for anyone who is applying for an Ontario driver's licence.

• The Official Motorcycle Handbook - is a publication that provides similar information as the Driver's Handbook, but is specifically designed for individuals who wish to apply for a motorcycle licence. The Driver's Handbook should be read along with this handbook.