What Is the Fine for Distracted Driving in Ontario?
In Ontario, a first distracted driving offence carries a fine of $615 to $1,000, 3 demerit points, and a 3-day licence suspension. A second offence brings a $615 to $2,000 fine, 6 demerit points, and a 7-day suspension. A third or subsequent offence results in a $615 to $3,000 fine, 6 demerit points, and a 30-day suspension.
Key Facts
- Using a hand-held phone to call, text, browse, or use apps
- Texting, emailing, or messaging on any device
- Using a hand-held GPS unit
- Watching videos or using entertainment devices
- Entering information into any hand-held device
In this article
Distracted Driving Fines and Penalties by Offence
Ontario has some of the strictest distracted driving laws in Canada. Penalties escalate sharply with each subsequent conviction.
| Offence | Fine | Demerit Points | Licence Suspension |
|---|---|---|---|
| First offence | $615-$1,000 | 3 points | 3 days |
| Second offence (within 5 years) | $615-$2,000 | 6 points | 7 days |
| Third+ offence (within 5 years) | $615-$3,000 | 6 points | 30 days |
What Counts as Distracted Driving
Distracted driving in Ontario is defined primarily by the use of a hand-held communication or electronic entertainment device while driving. This includes:
- Using a hand-held phone to call, text, browse, or use apps
- Texting, emailing, or messaging on any device
- Using a hand-held GPS unit
- Watching videos or using entertainment devices
- Entering information into any hand-held device
What Is Still Allowed
Hands-free use of a phone is permitted. You may use your phone if it is mounted on the dashboard or windshield and you can activate it with a single touch without picking it up. Calling on a Bluetooth speaker or earpiece is permitted. A GPS device is permitted if it is mounted and you do not program it while moving.
Novice Driver Restrictions
G1 and G2 drivers face a complete ban on all hand-held device use, including hands-free. Even a mounted phone used for calls is prohibited for novice drivers. The only exception is calling 911. Novice drivers caught with any device also face the same fine and suspension schedule as fully licensed drivers, with the added risk of hitting their lower demerit-point thresholds faster.
Other Forms of Distracted Driving
While device use carries the specific penalties above, police can also charge drivers with careless driving for other distractions: eating, grooming, reading, or anything else that takes your attention from the road. Careless driving carries a $400-$2,000 fine plus 6 demerit points and is a more serious charge.
Related Questions
What Is Distracted Driving in Ontario?
Distracted driving in Ontario includes using a hand-held mobile device, texting, eating, grooming, reading, or programming a hand-held GPS while driving. Ontario has some of the strictest distracted driving laws in Canada. First-time offenders face a fine of up to $1,000, 3 demerit points, and a 3-day licence suspension.
Read answerCan You Use a GPS While Driving in Ontario?
Yes, you can use a GPS while driving in Ontario, but only if the device is properly mounted on the windshield or dashboard and you do not program it while moving. Hand-held GPS use is prohibited. G1 and G2 novice drivers face additional restrictions and may not use any hand-held device, including GPS.
Read answerCan You Use Your Phone While Driving in Ontario?
No. Ontario's distracted driving law prohibits using handheld devices while driving, including smartphones, tablets, and handheld GPS units. Fines start at $615 for a first conviction and include 3 demerit points. Hands-free use through a mounted or Bluetooth device is permitted.
Read answerHow Many Demerit Points Do You Get for Speeding in Ontario?
Demerit points for speeding in Ontario depend on how far over the limit you are driving: 0 points for 1-15 km/h over, 3 points for 16-29 km/h over, 4 points for 30-49 km/h over, and 6 points for 50 km/h or more over. Exceeding by 50 km/h also triggers a stunt driving charge.
Read answerWhat Do You Do When an Emergency Vehicle Is Coming From the Opposite Direction in Ontario?
In Ontario, you are not required to pull over for emergency vehicles travelling in the opposite direction on a divided highway. You must only yield when the emergency vehicle is travelling in the same direction as you or when you are at an intersection. Always follow the specific situation and officer directions.
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