When you move to Ontario and become a resident of Ontario, you can use a valid licence from another province, state or country for 60 days. After 60 days, you need to apply for an Ontario driver’s licence (DL). Once you obtain an Ontario driver’s licence you must use your Ontario DL and can no longer use your foreign licence to drive in Ontario.
To get a full licence, you must meet certain requirements. The process depends on:
- • Where you were previously licensed and if your jurisdiction has a licence exchange agreement with Ontario
- • The class of licence you currently hold
- • How long you have been driving (your driving experience)
Visiting Ontario?
If you are visiting Ontario for less than 3 months, use a valid driver’s licence from your own province, state, or country. You do not need to visit a DriveTest Centre while you are here, but you must have a vehicle permit and insurance and must follow Ontario’s rules of the road. The Official MTO Driver’s Handbook explains Ontario’s traffic laws and driving customs.
If you are visiting from another country for more than 3 months, you should get an International Driver’s Permit (IDP) from your own country to accompany your driver’s licence before you arrive in Canada. DriveTest does not issue International Driver’s Permits.
You may exchange or apply for an Ontario licence at ANY DriveTest Centre on a walk-in basis.
Please note that appointments to exchange your driver’s licence from another province or country, or to apply for a G1 licence with foreign experience, are available at the following sites. To receive guaranteed service, you must schedule a licence exchange appointment at these locations. Walk-in wait times at these locations may be extended.