Can You Get a Driver's Licence With a Criminal Record in Ontario?
Having a criminal record does not automatically prevent you from getting an Ontario driver's licence. The MTO evaluates driving-related offences and licence history, not your criminal record in general. However, certain criminal convictions directly related to driving, such as impaired driving or dangerous driving causing death, can result in a suspension or permanent revocation.
Key Facts
- Impaired driving (DUI/DWI): mandatory suspension, possible lifetime revocation for repeat offences
- Dangerous driving causing bodily harm or death: criminal suspension
- Stunt driving (50+ km/h over limit): immediate roadside suspension
- Failing to remain at the scene of an accident
- Criminal negligence in the operation of a vehicle
In this article
Criminal Record vs. Driving Record
The MTO does not conduct a general criminal background check when you apply for a G1 licence. It evaluates your driving record, which includes traffic convictions, demerit points, and licence suspensions. A non-driving criminal record (e.g., theft, fraud, assault) has no direct effect on your ability to obtain or keep a driver's licence in Ontario.
Criminal Driving Offences That Affect Your Licence
Certain criminal offences under the Criminal Code of Canada or the Ontario Highway Traffic Act directly result in licence suspensions or revocations.
- Impaired driving (DUI/DWI): mandatory suspension, possible lifetime revocation for repeat offences
- Dangerous driving causing bodily harm or death: criminal suspension
- Stunt driving (50+ km/h over limit): immediate roadside suspension
- Failing to remain at the scene of an accident
- Criminal negligence in the operation of a vehicle
- Using a vehicle in the commission of a crime
Getting Your Licence Back After a Criminal Driving Suspension
After serving a criminal driving suspension, the path to getting your licence reinstated depends on the offence. For impaired driving, Ontario requires completion of the Back on Track program, potential ignition interlock conditions, and payment of reinstatement fees. The MTO sets the conditions; they vary based on the number of prior offences and the severity of the conviction.
Pardons and Record Suspensions
A federal record suspension (pardon) removes a criminal conviction from the RCMP database, but it does not automatically erase a driving suspension from MTO records. Driving-related convictions are tracked separately in the provincial system. If you have received a pardon and are still facing driving restrictions, contact the MTO directly to understand what steps are required to restore your licence.
Related Questions
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Read answerHow Many Demerit Points Before Licence Suspension in Ontario?
For fully licensed G drivers in Ontario, a warning letter is sent at 9 points and your licence is suspended at 15 points. For novice drivers (G1 or G2), a warning comes at 6 points and suspension at 9 points. Demerit points stay on your driving record for 2 years from the date of the offence.
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In Ontario, driving without having ever obtained a licence carries a fine of $65 to $500. Driving while your licence is suspended or cancelled is far more serious, with fines of $1,000 to $5,000 and a possible jail sentence. Both offences result in vehicle impoundment.
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