There are different license classes in Ontario for different vehicles. If you’re driving a car, truck, bus, or even an ambulance, there’s a specific license class you will need. Knowledge about these different license classes can help you pick the right one for you.
This guide by GClass Drivers School will explain the types of licenses, with driving conditions and requirements to get that license. So, let’s start!
Types of Driver Licenses in Ontario
Driver licenses are categorized into different classes. Here is the complete guide about different classes of Ontario licenses.
CLASS A
Drivers with Class A licenses are allowed to drive tractor-trailers. It also allows you to operate Class D and G vehicles.
What you can drive with class A in Ontario:
- Tractor-trailers with towed vehicles over 4,600 kilograms (10,000 lbs).
- Class D vehicles (motor vehicles over 11,000 kilograms gross weight if the towed vehicle is under 4,600 kilograms).
- Class G vehicles.
Requirements
To apply, you must:
- Be 18 years or older.
- You must have a valid Ontario Class G license or higher.
- Meet vision standards.
- Provide a valid medical certificate.
- Pass a knowledge test on large trucks and tractor-trailers.
- Complete a road test.
Class B License in Ontario
Persons with Class B licenses are allowed to drive full-sized school buses. It will also allow you to drive Class C, D, E, F, and G vehicles.
Requirements:
These are the requirements to get a Class B license:
- At least you should be 21 years old.
- You must have a valid Ontario Class G license or higher.
- Have no more than six demerit points on your record.
- Pass a vision test, knowledge test, and road test using a full-sized bus.
- Complete an approved school bus driver improvement course and show proof.
- Know how to maintain bus equipment and keep passengers safe.
Who Can’t Apply
You will not be eligible to apply if, in the last 12 months, you:
- Had your license suspended.
- Were convicted of speeding 50 km/h over the limit, careless driving, or leaving an accident.
You’re also not eligible if, in the last five years, you:
- Had two or more criminal convictions involving a vehicle.
- Were convicted of drug offenses.
- Were found guilty of certain moral or sexual offenses.
Class C License in Ontario
A Class C license is for driving large buses like coach or city buses. It also allows you to operate Class D, F, and G vehicles, but not school buses.
With a Class C license, you can drive:
- Any bus with over 24 passenger seats.
- Class D, F, and G vehicles.
Requirements:
To get a Class C license, you must:
- Be at least 18 years old.
- You should have a valid Ontario Class G license or higher.
- Meet medical and vision standards.
- You should know the basics of bus maintenance and passenger safety.
- Pass a vision test, knowledge test, and road test using a large bus.
Class D License in Ontario
Drivers with Class D licenses are allowed to drive trucks. These could be dump trucks or delivery trucks. You need this license if the truck weighs more than 11,000 kg or if the truck and trailer together weigh more than 11,000 kg, but only if the trailer weighs 4,600 kg or less. With a Class D license, you can also drive regular cars and small vehicles.
With a Class D license, you can drive:
- Trucks with a gross weight of over 11,000 kg.
- Trucks and trailers combined (if the trailer weighs 4,600 kg or less).
- Class G vehicles.
Requirements:
To get a Class D license, you must:
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Hold a valid Ontario Class G license or higher.
- Provide a valid medical certificate.
- Meet vision standards.
- Pass a truck knowledge test.
- Prove your driving skills in a road test using a qualifying vehicle.
Class E License in Ontario
A Class E license is for those who want to drive small school buses with a maximum of 24 passengers. It also allows you to operate vehicles in Classes F and G.
With a Class E license, you can:
- Operate a school-purpose bus with up to 24 passengers.
- Drive Class F and G vehicles.
Requirements:
To qualify for a Class E license, you must:
- You must be at least 21 years old.
- Must have a valid Ontario Class G license or higher.
- Meet medical and vision requirements.
- Have no more than six demerit points on your driving record.
- Pass the MTO driver exam or provide a certificate of competence. This includes:
- Vision screening
- Knowledge test
- Road test (using a small school bus)
- Complete an MTO-approved school bus driver improvement course and show a valid course certificate.
- Know how to maintain the bus and keep passengers safe.
Eligibility Rules:
You must also meet these rules:
- Your license must not have been suspended in the last 12 months. Suspension may be due to careless driving, or causing an accident scene.
- You must not have been convicted of criminal or drug-related offenses in the last five years.
- You must not have a history of offenses that show you might not be suitable to transport children or handle your duties responsibly.
Class F License in Ontario
A Class F license you will need if you want to drive an ambulance, work as a paramedic, or operate small buses (not school buses) that carry up to 24 passengers. With a Class F license, you can also drive regular Class G vehicles.
With a Class F license, you are allowed to:
- Drive an ambulance.
- Operate a small non-school bus with a maximum capacity of 24 passengers.
- Drive G Class vehicles.
Requirements:
To obtain a Class F license, you must:
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Hold a valid Ontario Class G license or higher.
- Meet medical and vision standards.
- Be knowledgeable about bus equipment maintenance and passenger safety.
- Pass the MTO driver examination or provide a certificate of competence by completing a vision screening, knowledge test, and road test in a vehicle of the appropriate size.
Take the first step toward your goal by enrolling in a driving program today!
Class G License in Ontario
Class G licenses are for everyday vehicles like cars, vans, and SUVs under the Ontario Graduated Licensing System. This license covers vehicles weighing less than 11,000 kg or a combination of a vehicle and trailer, provided the trailer doesn’t exceed 4,600 kg. Let’s break down the different stages of the G license:
G1 License
How to get it:
- Pass a written test on traffic rules and road signs.
- Complete an eye exam.
- Pay the required fee.
Driving Conditions:
- Drive only under the supervision of a fully licensed driver (with at least four years of driving experience).
- Additional restrictions apply, such as no driving on 400-series highways or after midnight in most cases.
G2 License
How to Get It:
- Hold a G1 license for 12 months (or 8 months if you complete an MTO-approved driving course).
- Pass a road test.
Driving Conditions:
- You can drive independently with some restrictions, like maintaining a zero blood alcohol level.
- Passenger limits may apply, especially for drivers under 19.
Full G License
How to Get It:
- Hold a G2 license for at least 12 months.
- Pass a second, more advanced road test.
Driving Conditions:
You can drive any G-class vehicle without restrictions, but drivers under 22 must maintain a zero blood alcohol level.
What You Can Drive with a Class G License
- Cars, vans, and small trucks under 11,000 kg.
- Vehicle and trailer combinations up to 11,000 kg, provided the trailer is under 4,600 kg.
- Examples include everyday sedans, SUVs, and pickup trucks towing small trailers.
Class M License in Ontario
The Class M license is designed for motorcycles and similar vehicles like mopeds, motor tricycles, and motor-assisted bicycles. It is part of Ontario’s Graduated Licensing System. Let’s break down the process for obtaining a Class M license and the conditions for each level.
Class M1
To get an M1 license, you need to:
- Be at least 16 years old.
- Pass a written test on traffic rules and road signs.
- Complete an eye exam.
Driving Conditions
- Ride only during daylight hours.
- No passengers allowed.
- Avoid high-speed roads or highways with speed limits over 80 km/h (except when necessary).
Class M2
- Hold an M1 license for at least 60 days.
- Pass a road test.
Driving Conditions
- Zero blood alcohol concentration is mandatory.
- You can ride at night and carry passengers.
Full Class M License
- Hold a Class M2 license for 22 months (or 18 months if you complete an approved Motorcycle Safety Course).
- Pass a second road test.
Driving Conditions
- No restrictions, except zero blood alcohol concentration for riders under 22.
Special Conditions for Class M Licenses
- M with Condition L: You can only operate limited-speed motorcycles or mopeds. These vehicles have a maximum speed of 70 km/h and must have a label identifying them as “LSM/MVL” if manufactured after 1988.
- M with Condition M: Restricted to motor tricycles only. These are three-wheeled motorcycles with straddled seating, handlebars for steering, and a maximum weight of 1,000 kg.
What You Can Drive with a Class M License
- Motorcycles: Full-speed motorcycles for Class M holders.
- Limited-Speed Motorcycles (Scooters): For holders with “L” conditions.
- Motor Tricycles: For holders with “M” conditions.
- Mopeds: Allowed at all levels of Class M licensing.
- Class M license holders may also drive a Class G vehicle under the same conditions as a G1 license holder.
Explore Your Licensing Journey with G-Class Drivers
Obtaining the right license is the first step to driving the vehicle you want whether it’s a car, truck, bus, or motorcycle. Hope this guide has made it simple to understand the different license classes in Ontario and their requirements.
Ready to get started? GClass Drivers School is here to guide you every step of the way. Whether you’re working on your G1, G2, or aiming for a specialized license like Class A, B, or M, our friendly instructors will help you build the skills and confidence you need.
Book your lessons with G-Class Drivers School today and start your journey to safe, confident driving!
FAQs
What is the highest driver’s license?
The highest driver’s license in Ontario is a Class A license. It lets you drive big vehicles like tractor-trailers and heavy trucks.
Can I drive a 12-passenger van with a Class G license in Ontario?
Yes, you can drive a 12-passenger van with a Class G license in Ontario, as long as the van is for personal use and not carrying paying passengers.
How long can I drive in Ontario with a foreign license?
You can drive in Ontario with a foreign license for up to 60 days. After that, you’ll need to get an Ontario driver’s license.
How long is a G1 license good for in Ontario?
A G1 license in Ontario is valid for 5 years. If you don’t get your full G license within this time, you’ll need to start the process again.
