Ontario Licence Suspensions

The Guide to Driving Licence Suspensions in Ontario

Licence Suspensions for Ontario Drivers

Clear, actionable information and support. Our comprehensive resources cover everything from understanding the reasons behind your driving licence suspension to detailed guides on the reinstatement process.

Our mission is clear: to empower drivers facing the prospect of a suspended license with the knowledge and tools they need to navigate their situation with confidence.

When it comes to licence suspensions the path may be confusing, whether the suspension demerit points, unpaid fines, medical driver licence suspension or just need some advice, there is the source for information about driver licence suspensions in Ontario.

We aim to demystify the legal jargon and procedural nuances of the traffic court system and the Ontario Ministry of Transportation’s policies.

Driver Licence Suspensions

How Your Driver’s License Can Be Suspended: Various Scenarios Explained

Demerit Point Suspensions

Where a driver accumulates demerit points beyond the drivers licence class limit, the Ministry of Transport suspends the drivers licence. The Ministry believes such suspensions serve as a deterrent, promoting compliance and road safety.

Unpaid Fines Suspensions

When a drivers is convicted (found guilty) of a traffic ticket the court assesses a fine against the driver. Where the driver refuses or does not pay the fine the court notifies the Ministry of Transport who suspends the drivers licence.

Administrative Licence Suspensions

An administrative suspensions, including the lapse of a driver’s licence (expired drivers licence) are suspensions from the Ministry of Transportation not connected to a driving offence or a conviction. The administrative suspension can include medical suspensions, and roadside suspensions issued by police officers.

Stunt Driving Suspensions

Where a police officer charges a driver with the offence of stunt driving, the officer will suspend the drivers licence for 30 days. Where the driver is convicted in court the prosecution may request that the drivers licence be further suspended for 1 to 3 years.

Careless Driving Suspensions

In serious incidents of careless driving, where a driver has been convicted of careless driving, as a part of the penalty the prosecution may request that the drivers licence be suspended for a period up to 2 years.

Speeding Ticket Suspensions

Where a driver is found driving 50km/h or more above the speed limit, the officer may suspend the licence for 30 days at the roadside. G1 and G2 Novice drivers are suspended for any speeding ticket for more than 29km/h over the speed limit.

Family Responsibility Act

When a support order that is filed is in default, the Director may serve a first notice on the payor, informing the payor that his or her driver’s licence may be suspended unless, within 30 days after the day the first notice is served the payor.

Medical Suspensions

A medical driver’s licence suspension means that a medical professional, police officer or person in authority believes that your medical condition may affect your ability to drive. Commercial drivers as well must prove medical fitness.

Motor Vehicle Accident Claims Act

Where a claim is made against a driver or owner of an uninsured motor vehicle, and the claim is paid by the Act, the driver or owner are notified and must arrange to pay the claim or commence instalment repayments. Where this is not done the drivers licence will be suspended.

Criminal Licence Prohibitions

A Criminal Code of Canada driver’s license suspension is imposed when a driver is convicted of a driving-related criminal offence, such as drinking and driving, impaired driving, and dangerous driving. Most driver licence suspensions are mandatory.

Driver licence Reinstatements

In Ontario, reinstating a suspended driver’s licence many times involves a structured process, tailored to ensure that drivers meet specific criteria before they are allowed back on the road.

This process varies depending on the reason for suspension, whether it be for demerit points, a driving-related criminal offense, or administrative reasons such as unpaid fines.

Generally where the licence is reinstated the driver will be required to pay a reinstatement fee, provide proof of completed penalties or conditions (such as attending a remedial driving course), and in some cases, pass a driving or written test.

For suspensions due to medical reasons or impaired driving, additional documentation from healthcare professionals or completion of a treatment program might be required.

Ontario Driver Licence Suspensions & Licence Reinstatements