Renewing Your Ontario Driver's License: A Simple Guide to the Process

Renewing your driver's license is a routine but essential task for every driver in Ontario. It ensures your information is up to date and you remain legally able to drive. While it might seem like just another piece of administrative work, the process is quite straightforward, with convenient options available for most drivers.

This guide will cover everything you need to know about renewing your Ontario driver's license, including when to do it, your renewal options, required fees, and what to expect.

When Do You Need to Renew?

In Ontario, your driver's license is valid for a period of five years. Your license card has a clear expiry date printed on it, which will be on your birthday.

You will receive a renewal notice in the mail from the Ministry of Transportation approximately two to three months before your license is set to expire. This notice will tell you if you are eligible to renew online or if you must renew in person. It is your responsibility to ensure your license is renewed on time, even if you don't receive the notice.

Renewal Option 1: Online (The Fast and Easy Way)

For many Ontarians, renewing online is the quickest and most convenient option. It can be done from home in just a few minutes.

Who is Eligible to Renew Online?

You may be eligible to renew your driver's license online if you:

• Have a full G or M class license that is not suspended or cancelled.
• Are not required to take any tests (vision, written, or road).
• Do not need to have a new photo taken.
• Have not changed your address in the last 90 days.
• Do not need to remove a corrective lenses condition.
• Are not a driver over the age of 80.

How to Renew Online:

1. Visit the ServiceOntario Website: Go to the official ServiceOntario online driver's license renewal page.
2. Have Your Information Ready: You will need your driver's license number (the number on the front of your card) and your 7-digit postal code.
3. Follow the Prompts: The system will guide you through a series of simple steps to confirm your information.
4. Pay the Fee: You can pay the renewal fee using a valid credit card (Visa, MasterCard) or Interac Online. The fee for a five-year renewal is $90.
5. Print Your Temporary License: Once the transaction is complete, you will be able to download and print a temporary license. You must carry this with your old license card until your new one arrives.
6. Receive Your New Card: Your new driver's license card will be mailed to you within 4 to 6 weeks.

Renewal Option 2: In Person at ServiceOntario

If you are not eligible to renew online, or if you prefer to do it in person, you can visit any ServiceOntario centre.

When You MUST Renew In Person:

• New Photo Required: You must have a new photograph taken every 10 years. Your renewal notice will clearly state if a new photo is needed.
• Name or Address Change: If you need to update your legal name or address.
• Drivers 80 and Over: Senior drivers have specific renewal requirements that must be completed in person.
• Required Tests: If you are required to take a vision test or any other tests.

What to Bring for In-Person Renewal:

• Your renewal notice (if you received one).
• Your current driver's license.
• Payment for the $90 fee. ServiceOntario centres accept cash, debit, credit, and certified cheques.
• If your name has changed, bring the original legal document proving the change (e.g., marriage certificate).
• Your corrective lenses (glasses/contacts) if you wear them for driving.

The in-person process is simple. The staff will take your photo, you may be asked to complete a quick vision test, and you will pay the fee. You'll receive a temporary license to use until your new card arrives in the mail.

Special Considerations for Senior Drivers (80 and Over)

To ensure road safety, drivers aged 80 and over must renew their license every two years. The renewal process includes:

• A vision test.
• A review of your driving record.
• A group education session.
• In some cases, a written and road test may be required based on the review.

What if Your License Has Already Expired?

Do not drive with an expired license.

• Expired for less than 1 year: You can renew following the standard process, likely in person.
• Expired for 1 to 3 years: You will need to take and pass a vision test and a written knowledge test.
• Expired for more than 3 years: You are no longer considered a licensed driver. You must start over from the beginning of the Graduated Licensing System, including passing the G1 written test and both road tests (G2 and G).

By keeping track of your expiry date and understanding your renewal options, you can ensure you always have a valid license and stay legal on Ontario's roads.