Immigrating to Toronto: How to Get Your Toronto Driver’s Licence

Moving to a new country comes with many exciting challenges, and one of the most important is learning how to navigate the area safely. If you’re immigrating to Toronto, having a valid driver’s licence is key to enjoying your new life and exploring the city freely. But how do you get your Toronto driver’s licence as a newcomer? This guide will walk you through the process step by step.

Can I Drive in Toronto with My Foreign Licence?

When you first arrive in Toronto, you can use your valid foreign driver’s licence for up to 60 days. This gives you some time to settle in and decide how to get your Ontario driver’s licence. If your licence is not in English or French, you’ll need a certified translation or an International Driving Permit (IDP) from your home country to accompany it.

However, after 60 days, you must switch to an Ontario driver’s licence to continue driving legally in Toronto. Driving without a valid Ontario licence after this period is illegal.

Step 1: Check if You Can Exchange Your Licence

Ontario has agreements with many countries that allow newcomers to exchange their foreign licenses for an Ontario license without taking the entire driving test. If you have a full, valid licence from one of these countries and at least two years of driving experience, you may only need to pass a vision test to get your Ontario licence.

Countries with licence exchange agreements include the United States, United Kingdom, France, Germany, South Korea, and many others. You can check the complete list on the official Drive Test website.

If your country is not on the list, or if you don’t meet the experience requirements, you will need to go through Ontario’s graduated licensing system, which includes written and road tests.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

To apply for your Ontario driver’s licence, you’ll need to visit a Drive Test Centre or the Service Ontario Bay and College location in Toronto. Bring these documents with you:

• Your original, valid foreign driver’s licence (with certified translation if needed)
• Proof of identity showing your legal name and date of birth (passport, PR card, or immigration documents)
• Proof of residency in Ontario (utility bills, lease agreement, etc.)
• Any documents proving your driving experience (letters from your home country or your foreign licence)

Make sure your documents are original and up-to-date.

Step 3: Take the Vision Test

At the DriveTest Centre, you’ll first take a simple vision test to ensure your eyesight meets Ontario’s standards for safe driving. If you wear glasses or contact lenses, bring them with you.

Step 4: Decide Your Licensing Path

• If you qualify for licence exchange:
• You may be able to skip the written and road tests and get your full Ontario license after passing the vision test.
• If you don’t qualify for exchange:
• You’ll enter the graduated licensing system, starting with the G1 licence. This involves passing a written knowledge test about Ontario’s road rules and signs.

After passing the G1 test, you’ll practice driving and eventually take the G2 road test and then the full G road test to get your full licence.

Step 5: Prepare for the Knowledge Test (If Needed)

If you need to take the G1 written test, study the Official MTO Driver’s Handbook. It covers Ontario’s traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You can buy a copy at ServiceOntario or find it online.

Many newcomers find it helpful to take a driver education course to prepare for the test and learn local driving customs.

Step 6: Book and Take Your Road Tests

Once you have your G1 licence and have gained enough driving experience, you can book your G2 road test. This test assesses your basic driving skills in real-world traffic conditions.

After passing the G2 test and gaining more experience, you can take the full G road test, which includes highway driving and advanced skills.

Tips for Newcomers Driving in Toronto

• Understand local road rules: Some rules may differ from your home country, such as turning right on red lights or speed limits.
• Practice defensive driving: Toronto roads can be busy and challenging. Stay alert and drive safely.
• Learn night driving safety tips: Toronto’s busy streets at night require extra caution.
• Carry your documents: Always have your Ontario licence, insurance, and vehicle registration with you.
• Respect parking rules: Toronto has strict parking regulations and fines in place.

What If I’m a Visitor or Temporary Resident?

If you’re visiting Toronto for less than three months, you can drive with your valid foreign licence and an International Driving Permit (IDP) without applying for an Ontario licence. For more extended stays, you must follow the steps above to get an Ontario driver’s licence.

Final Thoughts

Getting your Toronto driver’s licence as a newcomer might seem complicated, but it’s manageable with the right information and preparation. Whether you can exchange your licence or need to go through the graduated licensing system, following these steps will get you on the road legally and safely.

At GrayJays Driving School, we understand the challenges newcomers face. We offer tailored lessons to help you learn Ontario’s driving rules, prepare for your tests, and gain confidence behind the wheel.

Ready to start your driving journey in Toronto? Contact GrayJays Driving School today and drive with confidence!