Ontario Driver’s Abstract

What Is An Ontario Driver's Abstract?

An Ontario driver's abstract is an official record that provides a snapshot of an individual's driving history within the province. It contains information about the driver's licence status, convictions, demerit points, and other relevant details. The abstract is maintained by the Ontario Ministry of Transportation (MTO). It can be obtained by the driver or authorized third parties for various purposes, such as employment, insurance, or legal matters.

Ontario Ministry of Transportation (MTO)

Address: 777 Bay Street, Toronto, ON M7A 1Z8

Phone Number: 1-800-268-4686

Official Website: https://www.ontario.ca/page/ministry-transportation

What Does An Ontario Driver's Abstract Include?

An Ontario driver's abstract includes the following information:

• Driver identification details (name, licence number, date of birth, sex, height, licence class, expiry date, and status)

• Demerit point total

• Active fine suspensions

• Highway Traffic Act and Criminal Code of Canada convictions

• Suspensions and reinstatements

• Earliest licence date available

• Conditions and endorsements (e.g., requirement to wear glasses or contact lenses while driving)

The specific information included may vary depending on the type of abstract requested.

What Types Of Driver Abstracts Exist In Ontario?

Ontario offers two main types of driver abstracts:

1. Uncertified driver abstract:

   • Sufficient for most purposes

   • Includes driver identification details, demerit point total, active fine suspensions, convictions, suspensions, and reinstatements for the past three years

2. Certified driver abstract:

   • Bears an official seal from the Ministry of Transportation

   • Typically required for legal matters

   • Contains the same information as an uncertified abstract

You can also obtain a driver's licence history, including driver identification details, licence replacements, renewals, and class changes.

How To Get An Ontario Driver's Abstract?

To obtain an Ontario driver's abstract, individuals can:

1. Order online through the official ServiceOntario website

2. Visit a ServiceOntario centre in person

3. Request by mail using the Driver Abstract Request form

Payment and delivery options vary depending on the chosen method.

Who Can Get A Driver Abstract In Ontario?

In Ontario, the following individuals and entities can obtain a driver abstract:

• The driver (licence holder)

• Potential or current employers (with the driver's consent)

• Insurance companies (with the driver's consent or as permitted by law)

• Lawyers representing the driver or a third party in a legal matter

• Government agencies (as authorized by law)

Third parties must have a legitimate reason and, in most cases, the driver's consent to access their abstract.

How To Get A Driver's Abstract In Ontario Online?

To get a driver's abstract online in Ontario:

1. Visit the ServiceOntario website

2. Select the type of abstract needed (uncertified or certified)

3. Provide the required information (driver's licence number, name, date of birth, and address)

4. Pay the applicable fee using a credit card

5. The abstract will be delivered electronically or mailed to the address provided, depending on the selected delivery option

Online ordering is convenient and allows for quick access to the driver abstract.

When Do I Need A Driver's Abstract In Ontario?

A driver's abstract may be required in various situations in Ontario:

• Applying for a job that involves driving, such as a commercial driver or delivery person

• Seeking auto insurance or renewing an existing policy

• Transferring a driver's licence from another province or country

• Responding to a court order or legal request

• Applying for a pardon or record suspension

Employers and insurance companies may request a driver abstract to assess the individual's driving history and risk level.

How Much Does It Cost To Get A Driver's Abstract In Ontario?

The cost of obtaining a driver's abstract in Ontario varies depending on the type of abstract:

• Uncertified driver abstract (3-year history): $12.00

• Certified driver abstract (3-year history): $18.00

Credit card payments can be made for online orders or by cash, credit card, or debit card at ServiceOntario centres. Fees are subject to change; the most current information can be found on the ServiceOntario website.

How Long Does It Take To Get A Driver's Abstract In Ontario?

The time it takes to receive a driver's abstract in Ontario depends on the ordering method:

• Online: Abstracts are typically available for download immediately after placing the order.

• In-person: Abstracts can be obtained immediately at a ServiceOntario centre.

• By mail: Abstracts are usually mailed within 15 business days of receiving the request.

For What Duration Is A Driver's Abstract Considered Valid In Ontario?

In Ontario, a driver's abstract is considered current as of the date it is issued. However, the validity period may depend on the purpose for which the abstract is being used:

• Employers and insurance companies typically consider an abstract valid for 30 to 90 days from the issue date.

• The court or lawyer handling the case may determine the validity period for legal matters.

It is essential to check with the requesting party to determine their specific requirements for the validity period of a driver's abstract.

Do Traffic Accidents Get Reported On An Ontario Driver's Abstract?

Traffic accidents are not directly reported on an Ontario driver's abstract. However, the abstract will include information about convictions, demerit points, and suspensions resulting from accidents where the driver was found to be at fault under the Highway Traffic Act or the Criminal Code of Canada.

For example, suppose a driver is convicted of careless driving under the Highway Traffic Act due to an accident. In that case, this conviction and associated demerit points will appear on their driver's abstract for three years from the date of conviction.