Your Complete Manitoba (MPI) Document Checklist for a Driver's Licence

One of the most common hurdles when applying for your first driver's licence in Manitoba is showing up without the correct identification. Manitoba Public Insurance (MPI) has very specific and strict document requirements to verify your identity, date of birth, and residency. Arriving unprepared can mean a wasted trip and a delay in getting your learner's licence.

To ensure your visit to an Autopac agent or MPI Service Centre is a success, use this complete checklist to gather all your necessary documents ahead of time.

The MPI Identity Standard: Proving Who You Are

To set up your MPI customer account and apply for a Class 5L licence, you must provide documents that prove two key things:

1. Your Full Legal Name and Date of Birth
2. Your Entitlement to be in Canada (Citizenship, residency status, etc.)

MPI uses a "two-document" rule. You will need to present two acceptable documents from their approved list. It is crucial that the documents are originals—photocopies are not accepted.

Name Consistency is Key

The first, middle, and last names on both of your documents must match. If your name has changed (e.g., due to marriage) and is different from the name on your birth certificate, you must bring a legal "linking" document, such as a government-issued Marriage Certificate or a Certificate of Change of Name.

Accepted Documents for Proving Identity and Date of Birth

You must provide two pieces of identification from the following list. They can come from the same category. For example, a Canadian Passport and a Canadian Birth Certificate is an acceptable combination.

Canadian Citizens:

• Canadian Birth Certificate: A certificate issued by a Canadian provincial or territorial government.
• Canadian Passport: Must be valid and not expired.
• Canadian Citizenship Card with Photo: The wallet-sized card.
• Certificate of Indian Status Card: Issued by the Government of Canada.
• Manitoba Enhanced Driver’s Licence or ID Card: If you already have one of these.
• Canadian Armed Forces Identification Card.

Permanent Residents:

• Permanent Resident Card: Must be valid and not expired.
• Record of Landing (IMM 1000): If issued before June 2002.
• Confirmation of Permanent Residence (IMM 5292 or IMM 5688).

Temporary Residents (for work, study, etc.):

• Valid Foreign Passport with the appropriate, valid immigration document from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), such as:
  • Work Permit (IMM 1442)
  • Study Permit (IMM 1442)
  • Visitor Record (IMM 1442)
  • Temporary Resident Permit (IMM 1442)

Proof of Manitoba Residency

In addition to proving your identity, you must also prove that you live in Manitoba. In many cases, the documents you provide for identity may not contain your address. While MPI's requirements can sometimes be satisfied by your declaration, it is highly recommended to bring a separate document that shows your current Manitoba residential address (not a P.O. Box).

Good Examples of Residency Documents:

• A recent utility bill (hydro, phone, cable) dated within the last 60 days.
• A rental or lease agreement.
• A letter from your employer or school on official letterhead.
• A bank or credit card statement.

Additional Requirements for Minors (Under 18)

If you are under the age of 18, there is a critical additional requirement:

• Parental or Guardian Consent: You must have a parent or legal guardian accompany you to the Autopac agent or MPI Service Centre. They will be required to sign the Parental/Guardian Consent form in front of an agent. They will also need to present their own valid identification. If a legal guardian is providing consent, they must bring the official guardianship papers.

Final Checklist Before You Go

[ ] Appointment Booked (if applicable): While not always needed for a first application, check if your chosen MPI Service Centre requires one. [ ] Two Pieces of Original, Acceptable ID: (e.g., Birth Certificate and Passport). [ ] Legal Linking Document for Name Change (if needed): (e.g., Marriage Certificate). [ ] Proof of Manitoba Residency (Recommended): (e.g., Utility Bill). [ ] Parent/Guardian Present (if under 18): [ ] Payment for Fees: Be ready to pay for the knowledge test and licence card.

By carefully organizing your documents using this checklist, you can be confident that you meet all of MPI's requirements, making your first step into the world of driving a smooth and successful one.