How to check your Ontario driving record

Getting your driver’s licence can feel like the start of real freedom. It’s just you, your wheels, and the open road.  

But before you hit the asphalt, it’s important to remember: from the moment you get behind the wheel, the Ontario Ministry of Transportation starts tracking every misstep. Any ticket, demerit point, suspension, and more — all get logged on your record. 

Your driving record (also called a driver’s abstract) is a government-issued document that follows you throughout your driving life in Canada. It is used by insurers, employers, and licensing authorities to verify your driving history. Understanding what’s on it — and how your record can affect your auto insurance — can help avoid surprises down the road.

How to get a copy of your Ontario driving record

Getting a copy of your driving record is straightforward. There are three main options:

1. Online: This is the fastest option. You’ll need your driver’s licence number, date of birth, and a valid credit card to pay the fee. Uncertified records are often available instantly as a downloadable PDF.
2. In person at ServiceOntario: Bring your driver’s licence or other government-approved ID, plus required payment. Uncertified records are usually printed on the spot, and you can also order a certified copy if needed.
3. By mail: Complete a driver record search form and send it to the Ministry of Transportation with required payment. Certified records sent this way typically arrive in 10–15 business days via Canada Post.

When does your Ontario driving record start — and what’s included?  

Your driving record officially kicks off the day you get an Ontario driver’s licence, typically at the G1 level. If you move from another province or country, your Ontario record begins once your license transfer is completed.

Your Ontario driving record tracks:

• Driver identification (name, date of birth, sex, and height)
• Licence class (G1, G2, G, M)
• Licence renewals and expiry status
• Conditions and endorsements (such as a requirement to wear glasses) 
• High Traffic Act convictions 
• Criminal Code driving convictions 
• Demerit points
• Suspensions and reinstatements 

It does not include detailed accident reports, although convictions related to a collision may still appear.

When do you need a copy of your Ontario driving record? 

Most of the time, your driving record sits quietly in the background. But these are situations where you may be asked to provide a copy, or where it makes sense to check it yourself:

• Employment: This is one of the most common uses of a driving record. If you’re applying for a job that involves driving — such as delivery, transportation, or a sales role that requires time on the road — employers often request your record to confirm that you’re a safe and reliable driver.
• Shopping for auto insurance: Insurers use your driving history to assess risk and determine your premium anytime you apply for a new policy or renew coverage.
• Legal proof: You may also need a copy of your record for administrative or legal reasons, such as exchanging your licence in another province or country, when dealing with traffic court, or other legal matters related to driving.
• Accuracy: Reviewing your driving record occasionally can help you spot any unexpected convictions and understand exactly what insurers or employers see when they look at your driving history.

Are there different types of driving records — and how much does it cost?

Ontario offers several versions of your driving record, depending on how much detail you need:

• 3-year record: This is the most popular version. It shows convictions, demerit points, and suspensions from the past three years.
• 5-year record: A longer snapshot of your history.
• Driver’s licence history: Shows the timeline of your licence, including upgrades (like moving from G1 to G2 and G), and renewals.
• Complete driver record: The most detailed option, includes your full history on file with the Ministry of Transportation.

When ordering your record, you can choose between uncertified and certified versions. 

Most people choose the uncertified record, which is ideal for personal reference, insurance quotes, or employment checks. A 3-year uncertified record currently costs $12.

A certified record contains the same information but includes an official embossed seal from the Ministry of Transportation. You’ll typically need this for court proceedings, legal matters, licence exchanges with other jurisdictions, or certain government or immigration applications. A 3-year certified record currently costs $18. 

Before ordering, it’s worth confirming what the requesting organization actually needs, as this can save you time and money. 

How does your driving record affect your auto insurance? 

Your driving record is a key piece of the puzzle insurers use to determine your insurance premium. Convictions, suspensions, or demerit points give insurers insight into your driving habits and roadworthiness. Most insurers focus on the past three to five years, depending on the type of violation.

They’re not just interested in accidents or tickets — insurers may also consider how long you’ve been licenced, any gaps in your driving history, and whether your record shows a pattern of risky behaviour. Essentially, your driving record helps them estimate how likely you are to file a claim.

Read more: How your claims history affects your car insurance premium

It’s worth remembering that every insurer evaluates driving records differently. Comparing rates between different insurers and asking about how your history is assessed could help you find a better premium.