For many older Ontarians, driving and being independently mobile has been a privilege they have enjoyed for decades. However, being a senior driver does come with some changes. As you near your 80th birthday, you will need to renew your driver’s licence. In this article, we detail the steps necessary for a senior driver’s licence renewal, as well as include resources you’ll need to be fully prepared on test day.
Why Seniors Are More Prone to Car Accidents
Various circumstances increase the likelihood that older people will be involved in accidents. Age-related health conditions, slower reflexes, and reduced vision and hearing can all be contributing factors. According to recent Transport Canada data (2023), drivers aged 75 and older remain among the highest-risk groups for serious collisions, with this age group overrepresented in fatal crashes compared to their share of licensed drivers. A 2025 study also found that drivers over 70 show slower braking responses and changes in speed-limit adherence compared to middle-aged drivers, which can increase the risk in busy traffic conditions.
Because seniors are statistically more likely to experience more severe injuries in a collision, some insurers increase premiums for older drivers to offset the higher potential cost of claims. While premiums don’t automatically rise at a certain birthday, insurers may begin adjusting rates after age 70 based on health, driving record, and risk factors. As of mid-2025, the average Ontario auto insurance premium is approximately $2,120 per year. Drivers aged 65 and above typically pay slightly more, averaging around $2,150 annually.
Turning 80 and Driving
If you still enjoy the freedom of travelling out and about, the Government of Ontario requires you to renew your driver’s licence every two years after turning 80. This ensures that seniors remain safe and confident while driving.
You will receive a renewal notice roughly 90 days before your licence expires, giving you time to make arrangements. As of February 2025, Ontario has streamlined the process — you can now complete your vision and cognitive screening and renew your licence at the same ServiceOntario centre, rather than attending separate DriveTest appointments. The renewal fee is $36.
Please note: You will receive a notification to renew your licence every two years past your 80th birthday.
Before attending the renewal session
Before your appointment, you’ll need to watch an educational video about safe driving for seniors and review Ontario’s Official Driver’s Handbook. These serve as a refresher on road rules and help prepare you for a brief in-class screening exercise during your appointment.
To watch the video, please click here.
Steps for a Senior Driver’s Licence Renewal
The renewal process typically takes between 45 and 90 minutes, depending on your results and whether further testing is required. If your licence has expired, you may request a temporary permit while your renewal is being processed.
Step 1: Vision testing
A vision screener will assess your eyesight. Please bring your most recent prescription glasses or contact lenses. If you’ve had a recent eye exam (within 6 months), you can submit your eye doctor’s signed report showing acuity and peripheral results instead.
Step 2: Driver record review
Your driving record — including infractions, tickets, or suspensions — will be reviewed as part of your renewal. This applies to all drivers, regardless of age.
Step 3: Group education session
A trained counsellor leads the group session in a quiet setting. It includes:
- A short, non-computer assessment lasting about five minutes
- A clock-drawing exercise, which screens for cognitive processing and spatial awareness
- Discussion on safe-driving strategies for older adults
Based on your performance and record, you will need to complete additional steps.
Step 4: Road test (if necessary)
If results suggest follow-up is needed, or if your medical report requires further confirmation, you may need to complete a road test. The test is similar to a standard G-road test, but instructors are mindful of mobility or flexibility limitations that can affect older drivers.
Senior Driver’s Licence Renewal: Medical Notifications
Ontario doctors, nurse practitioners, and optometrists must notify the Ministry of Transportation (MTO) if a patient has a medical condition that could make driving unsafe. Conditions often reported include:
- Seizures
- Dementia (mild or moderate)
- Vision loss
- Heart attack
- Renal failure
In some cases, your doctor may refer you to an occupational therapist or specialist for a more detailed driving assessment before your licence renewal.
Referrals and Conditional Renewals
The final decision about whether you can renew your licence — or if conditions will apply — is based on:
- Your doctor’s report and medical documents
- Your driving record
- Results from vision, cognitive, or road tests
Common licence conditions include no night driving or mandatory corrective lenses.
Booking Your Senior Driver’s Licence Renewal Session
You can book your appointment by calling 416-235-3579 (Toronto) or 1-800-396-4233 (toll-free), or by emailing [email protected]. When booking, mention any accessibility needs, such as wheelchair access or interpreter services.
Staying Safe and Independent When Driving as a Senior
Driving helps seniors maintain independence and mobility — whether that means running errands, attending appointments, or visiting loved ones. By keeping up with renewals, regular health checks, and safe driving habits, you can continue to enjoy the road safely.
If you have questions about licensing or how your insurance premiums may change as you age, contact one of our isure representatives. We’ll be happy to help you understand your options and stay mobile with confidence.
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