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.
Key Facts
- Using or holding a hand-held mobile device
- Texting or sending messages of any kind
- Browsing the internet or using apps
- Programming a hand-held GPS
- Watching video or entertainment while driving
In this article
What Counts as Distracted Driving?
Under Ontario's Highway Traffic Act, distracted driving is defined broadly. It covers any hand-held use of an electronic device: holding your phone, texting, browsing, checking notifications, or using apps while driving. It also includes programming a GPS that is not hands-free and activities like eating, grooming, or reading that significantly divert your attention from the road.
- Using or holding a hand-held mobile device
- Texting or sending messages of any kind
- Browsing the internet or using apps
- Programming a hand-held GPS
- Watching video or entertainment while driving
- Eating, applying makeup, or grooming
- Reading any printed material
What Are the Fines and Penalties?
As of 2026, Ontario's distracted driving penalties have increased significantly since 2019. A first offence results in a fine of $615 to $1,000, 3 demerit points, and a 3-day licence suspension. A second offence within 5 years brings a fine of up to $2,000, 3 demerit points, and a 7-day suspension. A third offence brings a fine of up to $3,000, 3 demerit points, and a 30-day suspension.
- First offence: $615 to $1,000 fine, 3 demerit points, 3-day suspension
- Second offence: up to $2,000 fine, 3 demerit points, 7-day suspension
- Third or subsequent offence: up to $3,000 fine, 3 demerit points, 30-day suspension
What Hands-Free Devices Are Allowed?
You are allowed to use a GPS or phone in hands-free mode while driving. The device must be mounted on the dash or windshield in a secure holder, and you must be able to interact with it without holding or touching it. Bluetooth headsets and wireless earbuds for calls are permitted.
Are There Extra Rules for Novice Drivers?
G1 and G2 novice drivers face stricter consequences than fully licensed drivers because demerit point thresholds for suspension are lower. A distracted driving charge carries 3 demerit points. Two convictions (6 points total) put a G2 holder past the warning threshold and close to the 9-point suspension limit, compared to a fully licensed G driver who would not receive a warning until 9 points.
Related Questions
Can 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 Do Demerit Points Work in Ontario?
Ontario demerit points are added to your licence when you are convicted of certain driving offences. G1 and G2 drivers face stricter consequences: 9 demerit points triggers a licence suspension for novice drivers, compared to 15 for fully licensed drivers. Points are removed 2 years after the offence date.
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, turning left on a red light is only permitted when you are turning from a one-way street onto another one-way street. In all other situations, a red light means you must stop and wait for green. This is different from right-on-red, which is more broadly allowed.
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