Your driving record follows you from the moment you get your license. But have you ever wondered what’s actually on it? Whether you’re applying for a job, renewing your insurance or just curious your driver’s abstract in Ontario is an important document that can affect your driving future.
What is a Driver Abstract?
Every province and territory in Canada keeps driver records. These records are often needed by employers evaluating candidates for driving jobs, insurance companies setting premiums, legal authorities handling traffic violations & government agencies for licensing purposes.
A driver abstract is a snapshot of your driving history including convictions, demerit points & suspensions. It’s tied to your drivers license and is often used by employers and insurance companies to assess your driving behavior.
Read Also : How to get Driver’s License in Ontario
When Do You Need One?
- Applying for a job that involves driving
- Employers checking candidates’ driving records
- Getting vehicle insurance
- Applying for a license in another region
- Verifying your address in court
Types of Driving Records in Ontario
Many drivers in Ontario do not realize there are different types of driving records. ServiceOntario offers several, depending on what you need:
- 3-year driver record: the most common type, often used for employment. It shows demerit points, convictions, suspensions and reinstatements from the past 3 years.
- Driver’s licence history: often used for vehicle insurance. It lists licence renewals, replacements and class changes, and shows if you completed Beginner Driver Education. It does not show demerit points or convictions.
- 5-year record: includes demerit points and convictions, suspensions and reinstatements from the past 3 years under the Highway Traffic Act and the past 5 years under the Criminal Code.
- Extended and complete records: longer records. The complete record also lists collisions and all addresses on file.
How to Get a Driver’s Abstract in Ontario?
In Ontario, you can order a driving record in three ways:
- Online: Order an uncertified record with your license number and pay by Visa or Mastercard. You receive a PDF by email. You are charged even if no record is found, so check your license number carefully.
- In-Person: Visit a ServiceOntario centre with ID and payment. Uncertified records are issued immediately.
- By Mail: Send the record search application form to the Ministry of Transportation.
Certified records are processed within 15 business days and mailed by Canada Post. Mail orders also take up to 15 business days.
Types of Driver’s Abstracts
An Ontario driver’s abstract is a record of your driving history.
- Uncertified:
Meets most needs. The fee is $12. - Certified:
Has a Ministry of Transportation seal and is typically required for legal reasons only. The fee is $18. - Complete record:
The uncertified version costs $48 and the certified version costs $54.
How to Get a Driver’s Abstract in Other Provinces?
Each province and territory has its own process. You can request a driving record online, in person, or by mail through the respective government website:
- Alberta: Government of Alberta driver abstract request page.
- British Columbia: Request via ICBC online.
- Manitoba: Order through Manitoba Public Insurance.
- New Brunswick: Available via the government’s driver records page.
- Newfoundland & Labrador: Request through MyGovNL or in person.
- Northwest Territories: Obtain through the government website.
- Nova Scotia: Order via the Registry of Motor Vehicles.
- Nunavut: Visit a Motor Vehicles Division issuing office.
- Ontario: Order through ServiceOntario.
- Prince Edward Island: Request through the government portal.
- Quebec: Available through SAAQ’s online services.
- Saskatchewan: Request online, by email, in person, or by mail.
Wrapping It Up!
Your Ontario driver’s abstract is a crucial document that reflects your driving history and can impact job opportunities, insurance rates and legal matters. Whether you need a certified or uncertified version obtaining one is simple. Understanding the different types of driving records ensures you request the right one for your needs. If you want to know about further details then don’t hesitate to reach G-Class Drivers. We have got everything covered that you need to know about driving.
FAQS
What information is included in a driver’s abstract?
A driver’s abstract includes your driving history, such as convictions, demerit points, suspensions, and licence status.
How long does it take to get a driver’s abstract?
Uncertified records are available immediately when you order in person, and online orders are delivered as a PDF by email. Certified records are processed within 15 business days and sent by mail.
How much does a driver’s abstract cost?
An uncertified driver’s abstract costs $12, while a certified one costs $18.
Who typically requests a driver’s abstract?
Employers, insurance companies, legal authorities, and government agencies may request your driving record for various purposes.
Can I get a driver’s abstract for someone else?
A 3-year driver record can be requested by anyone who has the driver’s license number. A driver’s license history can only be requested by the driver or a Canadian law enforcement agency.
How far back does a driver’s abstract go?
A 3-year record covers the past 3 years, and a 5-year record covers up to 5 years for some offences. Extended and complete records go further back.
How do I correct an error on my driver’s abstract?
Contact ServiceOntario or the Ministry of Transportation through the official Contact us page on ontario.ca.
Completed Beginner Driver Education? Your completion appears on your driver’s licence history, which is often used for vehicle insurance. See our Beginner Driver Education course
