Ontario Driver's Abstract — How to Get Your Driving Record (2026)
Complete guide to getting your Ontario driver's abstract from the Ministry of Transportation. Covers all 3 types, costs, online ordering, and what your driving record shows.
How do I get a driver's abstract in Ontario?
You can order your Ontario driver's abstract online through ServiceOntario, in person at a ServiceOntario centre, or by mail through the Ministry of Transportation (MTO). The online option is the fastest. Cost: $18 for a 3-year uncertified abstract; $18 for a certified copy.
- Online: Through ServiceOntario.ca (fastest method)
- In person: At any ServiceOntario centre
- By mail: Send request to MTO with $18 fee
- 3 types: 3-year uncertified, 3-year certified, complete (all history)
Ontario Driver's Abstract — Complete Guide
A driver's abstract is your official driving record in Ontario, issued by the Ministry of Transportation (MTO). It shows your driving history including convictions, demerit points, licence suspensions, and collision involvement. This guide covers everything you need to know about getting your Ontario driver's abstract.
What Is an Ontario Driver's Abstract?
An Ontario driver's abstract is an official document that summarizes your driving history as recorded by the Ministry of Transportation. It includes:
- Highway Traffic Act convictions: (speeding, running red lights, distracted driving, etc.)
- Criminal Code driving convictions: (impaired driving, dangerous driving, etc.)
- Demerit point totals: and individual demerit entries
- Licence suspensions and reinstatements:
- Licence class and conditions:
- Collision involvement: (on the complete abstract only)
3 Types of Ontario Driver's Abstract
Ontario offers three different types of driver's abstract:
1. Three-Year Uncertified Driver's Abstract
- Coverage: : Last 3 years of driving history
- Cost: : $18
- Use: : Most common — used for employment, insurance, and personal records
- Format: : Digital or printed, not stamped/certified
- Processing: : Instant online; same-day in person
2. Three-Year Certified Driver's Abstract
- Coverage: : Last 3 years of driving history
- Cost: : $18
- Use: : Court proceedings, legal requirements, some employers
- Format: : Officially stamped/certified by MTO
- Processing: : Same-day in person; mailed if requested online
3. Complete Driver's Abstract (All History)
- Coverage: : Your entire driving history from first Ontario licence
- Cost: : $18
- Use: : Employment (trucking, transit), insurance disputes, legal proceedings
- Format: : Available certified or uncertified
- Processing: : May take longer to produce if history is extensive
How to Get Your Ontario Driver's Abstract
Method 1: Online (Fastest)
- Visit **ServiceOntario.ca**
- Log in with your Ontario.ca account (or create one)
- Select the type of abstract you need
- Pay $18 by credit or debit card
- Download your abstract immediately (for uncertified)
You will need:
- Ontario driver's licence number
- Date of birth
- Ontario.ca account credentials
Method 2: In Person
- Visit any **ServiceOntario centre**
- Bring your Ontario driver's licence or valid photo ID
- Request the type of abstract you need
- Pay $18 (cash, debit, or credit accepted at most locations)
- Receive your abstract on the spot
Method 3: By Mail
- Write a letter requesting your driver's abstract
- Include: full name, driver's licence number, date of birth, mailing address, type of abstract requested
- Include a cheque or money order for $18 payable to the "Minister of Finance"
- Mail to: Ministry of Transportation, Licensing Administration Office, PO Box 9200, Kingston, ON K7L 5K4
- Allow 2-4 weeks for processing and delivery
What Shows on Your Ontario Driver's Abstract
Included
- HTA convictions: : Speeding, distracted driving, running red lights, careless driving, stunt driving
- Criminal Code convictions: : Impaired driving (DUI), dangerous driving, failure to stop at an accident
- Demerit points: : Current total and individual entries
- Suspensions: : Administrative suspensions, court-ordered suspensions, medical suspensions
- Licence status: : Current class, conditions, restrictions
- Collision records: : Reported collisions (complete abstract only)
Not Included
- Parking tickets: : Municipal parking infractions are not on your abstract
- Photo radar tickets: : No demerit points, not typically on abstract
- Out-of-province convictions: : Only Ontario convictions appear (some interprovincial sharing exists)
- Criminal record: : Your driver's abstract is separate from a criminal record check
Who Needs an Ontario Driver's Abstract?
Employers
- Trucking and transportation companies: : Required for all commercial vehicle operators
- Delivery services: : Amazon, FedEx, UPS, and courier companies
- Rideshare platforms: : Uber and Lyft require a recent driver's abstract
- Public transit agencies: : TTC, OC Transpo, and regional transit systems
- Any role involving company vehicles: : Sales representatives, field technicians, etc.
Insurance Companies
- New policy applications: : Insurers may request your abstract when quoting auto insurance
- Renewal reviews: : Your driving record directly affects your premium
- Claims disputes: : Abstracts are used to establish driving history
Legal Proceedings
- Court cases: : Traffic court, civil litigation involving vehicle accidents
- Custody proceedings: : Driver's abstracts may be relevant in family court
Ontario Driver's Abstract vs. Criminal Record Check
These are two completely different documents:
| Feature | Driver's Abstract | Criminal Record Check |
|---|---|---|
| Issuing authority | Ontario MTO | RCMP (via police or SafeHire) |
| What it shows | Driving history, HTA convictions, demerit points | Criminal convictions, warrants |
| Database searched | Ontario MTO records | RCMP CPIC national database |
| Cost | $18 | $64.99 (SafeHire online) |
| Includes DUI? | Yes (driving record) | Yes (criminal conviction) |
| Includes speeding? | Yes | No |
| Includes theft? | No | Yes |
Many employers require both a driver's abstract and a criminal record check for driving-related positions.
Need a criminal record check too? Get yours through [SafeHire.ca](https://www.safehire.ca) — results in 15 minutes, $64.99.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does an Ontario driver's abstract cost?
$18 for all three types (3-year uncertified, 3-year certified, and complete). This fee applies whether you order online, in person, or by mail.
How long does it take to get an Ontario driver's abstract?
Online: instant download for uncertified abstracts. In person: same-day. By mail: 2-4 weeks.
How far back does an Ontario driver's abstract go?
The 3-year abstract covers the last 3 years. The complete abstract covers your entire driving history from your first Ontario licence.
Do speeding tickets show on a driver's abstract?
Yes. Speeding convictions under the Highway Traffic Act appear on your driver's abstract along with the associated demerit points.
Does a DUI show on a driver's abstract?
Yes. An impaired driving conviction appears on both your driver's abstract (as a Criminal Code driving conviction) and your criminal record check (as a criminal conviction).
Can my employer see my driver's abstract without my permission?
No. Your driver's abstract is private. Employers can request that you provide a copy, but they cannot access it directly without your consent.
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