Anyone with a driver’s licence in Ontario has a driving record, though many do not know what it looks like or what it may contain. If you are looking to learn more about the specific details of your driving history, there are several types of records that you can order. In this article, you will learn how to get a copy of your driving record, the type of records available, the costs associated and when you’ll need it.
What is a Driving Record?
Your driving record is your official history as a licensed driver in Ontario. Regardless of your licence class, this record is used by organizations such as auto insurance companies, employers, schools, or licensing authorities outside Ontario to confirm your driving status and history.
Types of Driving Records in Ontario
There are several types of driving records available through the Ontario Ministry of Transportation. The most commonly requested records include:
Three-Year Driver Record (Certified or Uncertified)
Often referred to as a driver’s abstract. Employers or insurance companies commonly request this record to review recent driving history.
Driver’s Licence History (DLH)
Used when proof of licence history is required, such as confirming the completion of a driving school program, licence renewals, class changes, or endorsements.
Five-Year Driver Record (Uncertified)
Frequently requested by insurers to confirm longer-term driving history.
Complete (Extended) Driver Record
Provides a comprehensive overview of a driver’s full history and is often requested for legal, insurance, or out-of-province licensing purposes.
Driver’s Licence Check
Confirms that a driver’s licence is valid and in good standing. Other available records and documents include:
- Five-year certified driver record: Required when applying for a driver’s licence in another province or country
- Extended driver record search: Often used as supporting documentation in court
- Driver confirmation letter: Used to verify licensing information for jurisdictions outside Ontario
What Information is Included in a Driving Record?
Ontario driving records and abstracts may include the following personal and licence details:
- Name
- Date of birth
- Sex
- Height
- Driver’s licence number
- Class of licence
- Licence status (valid, suspended, cancelled)
- Endorsements or restrictions
- Licence issue, renewal, and expiry dates
Depending on the record type ordered, your driving history may also include:
- Traffic convictions under the Highway Traffic Act
- Criminal Code driving convictions
- Demerit point totals
- Licence suspensions or reinstatements
- Active fine suspensions
Click here for a complete run-down of each type of driving record available.
For privacy reasons, most driving records do not include your current residential address. Non-moving violations (such as parking tickets) are also not typically shown.
How Much Does a Driving Record Cost in Ontario?
The cost of a driving record depends on the type requested:
- Uncertified driving record: $12
- Certified driving record: $18
- Complete/extended driver record: $48 (uncertified) or $54 (certified)
A certified record includes an official embossed seal from the Ministry of Transportation. It is usually required only for legal or out-of-province purposes. For most insurance or employment needs, an uncertified record is sufficient.
A certified record has an embossed seal from the Ministry of Transportation and is typically required for legal reasons only.
Where Can I Get a Copy of My Ontario Driving Record?
You can order your driving record in Ontario online, in person, or by mail.
Ordering Online
To order online, you will need:
- To input your full name
- Your Ontario driver’s licence number
- Date of birth
- A credit card for payment
Uncertified records ordered online are typically available immediately as a downloadable PDF.
Ordering In Person
You may visit a ServiceOntario location with valid identification and payment. Uncertified records are often printed on the spot.
Ordering by Mail or Fax
You must complete a Driver Record Search Application form and send it with payment (credit card or cheque) to the MTO Information Service Office. Certified and extended records ordered by mail are typically available within approximately 15 business days.
What Is a Driver’s Abstract?
A driver’s abstract is a summarized version of your driving record, usually covering the previous three years. Employers, insurance companies, or other organizations may request it. Contrary to common belief, a standard driver’s abstract does not list accident details, though convictions related to collisions may appear. Extended abstracts or complete records may show a longer history depending on what is requested.
When Is a Driver’s Abstract Needed?
You may be asked to provide a driver’s abstract when:
- Applying for or renewing auto insurance
- Applying for a job that requires driving
- Moving or driving outside Ontario
- Checking your own driving history
Insurance companies use driving records as one of several factors when determining premiums, eligibility, and policy terms.
Driver’s Licence Checks and Insurance
Insurance companies may verify your licence status through approved databases rather than requesting a full abstract directly from you. This allows insurers to confirm that your licence is valid and in good standing, which is essential for maintaining coverage.
For privacy reasons, most licence checks do not include your home address, and non-driving-related offences are not shared.
How to Get Longer-Term Driving Records
If you need a more detailed or longer-term history, you can request a five-year, extended, or complete driver record online, in person, or by mail.
Longer-term records may include:
- Licence class and expiry
- Driving conditions or restrictions
- Demerit point totals
- Highway Traffic Act convictions (past 3 years)
- Criminal Code driving convictions (past 5 years)
First, confirm whether a certified or uncertified record is required before placing your order. In most cases, certified records are only needed for legal or official purposes. Additionally, a certified driving record includes an embossed seal of approval from the Ontario Ministry of Transportation. For example, these are generally required during specific legal situations. On the other hand, an uncertified driving record will typically meet most people’s everyday needs.
Ontario Driving Record: Final Thoughts
Your Ontario driving record is an important document and one of the key factors used by auto insurance underwriters when assessing risk and setting premiums. Whether you’re applying for insurance, employment, or licensing outside Ontario, ordering the correct record type can save time and avoid unnecessary delays.
If you have concerns about how your driving history may impact your insurance rate, speaking with an experienced broker — such as the team at isure — can help you understand your options before shopping for quotes.
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