If you drive in Ontario, you likely already know that the province has very strict laws and hefty fines for not following traffic regulations.
One of the penalties that can significantly impact your driving record is a ticket for driving without a valid licence. It may seem obvious that a person should not drive without a licence. However, in a country that receives thousands of new people every year, there may be some who are unaware of the road rules and others who, through their own ignorance, choose to disregard them anyway.
In this article, we summarize the regulations surrounding driving without a driver’s licence in Ontario and the consequences that can result.
Rules About Driving Without A Licence in Ontario
The Highway Traffic Act of Ontario can be considered the bible of all traffic laws within the province. Here are some of the current rules and regulations around driving without a licence:
What Happens If I am Caught Driving Without A Licence In Ontario?
You may have various reasons or excuses for the police officer if you are pulled over without a driver’s licence, but at the end of the day, you will most likely have to explain yourself and hope that the police are lenient.
What is the Effect of Driving Without a Licence on Car Insurance Rates?
This penalty can increase your car insurance rates; it’s hard to predict, but the increase tends to be anywhere between 20% and 25%. The main reason for this is that driving without a licence is considered a crime and insurance companies will be aware of this when giving you a rate. This penalty can remain on your record for up to three years, which can cause you problems in other aspects. It is also considered very dangerous since it is considered that you put the lives of other people at risk by not being authorized to drive.
How Driving Without a Licence Complicates Claims — Even if You’re Not at Fault
Driving without a licence is a violation of Ontario’s Highway Traffic Act. So, even if you’re not at fault for causing an accident, you’re still breaking the rules. Even insurance claims that would be straightforward can become complicated once the insurer finds out you weren’t carrying your licence at the time of the accident.
You’ll likely face difficulties when making an insurance claim if you drive without a licence. Depending on your insurer, driving without a licence might violate your policy, which may result in your claim being denied.
What to Do With Your Insurer If You’re Caught Driving Without a Licence
If you’re caught driving without a licence, there’s no way to hide it because the offence will enter your Ontario driving record. However, you might be able to slightly soften the blow by contacting your insurance representative about driving without a licence. Be truthful and explain the circumstances as well as possible because it’s better for them to hear the news from you than to find out when they review your driving record. It likely won’t prevent your rates from rising, but you can retain some goodwill from the insurer.
Who is Exempt From Licence Laws in Ontario?
Like every rule, there are exceptions, but these are very specific or temporary. Here are the reasons why you could not be ticketed if you are not licenced while driving.
- If you are a resident of some other country or province and hold an international driver’s permit.
- If you are older than 16 years, a resident of another province of Canada, and are complying with your own province’s licence rules and regulations.
- If you are a citizen of another country who has not resided in Ontario for over three months of any year and has complied with the driving rules of your specific country.
- If you have moved to Ontario within the last sixty days. But you must hold a subsisting driver’s licence of the province from which you relocated to enjoy this exemption.
If My Licence Has Expired, How Can I Renew?
Ontario requires its drivers to renew their driver’s licences every 5 years. Generally, you will be notified by mail or email two to three months before the expiration date. If you think you are forgetful, it is best to make sure you place several reminders, ask a family member to remind you of that date or you can also sign up for the 30 or 60-day reminder feature via phone call, text and email that is available on the same renewal licence website. Remember that you have up to one year after your expiration date to renew online.
Can I Buy A Car In Ontario Without A Driver’s Licence?
You can buy a car without a driver’s licence. Typically, car dealers will require a valid, government-issued photo ID and the necessary financial information to complete the purchase of the vehicle. However, without a valid driver’s licence, you will not be able to drive a car legally in Ontario.
If you buy a brand-new vehicle that has never been insured, you can either transport it home via a tow truck or purchase insurance and then get a family member or friend with a driver’s licence to drive it home.
Key Advice from MyChoice
- Always carry your licence when driving, and don’t let anyone without a licence drive your car.
- If you’re caught driving without a licence, notify your insurer immediately so they’re aware of your situation.
- Penalties for driving without a licence can remain on your driving record for up to three years.