Losing your Ontario driver’s licence can be frustrating, but replacing it is straightforward when you know where to start. Whether it’s lost or stolen, quick action is essential to protect your identity and stay on the road legally.
Here, you’ll learn how to replace your licence both online and in person using the latest processes available in 2025. Whether you’re in Ontario or currently out of the province, we’ve got you covered with a step-by-step guide.
Immediate Steps to Take First
If your licence is lost or stolen, start by taking these first important steps:
- Double-check personal items: Make sure it’s truly misplaced by checking your car, pockets, or bags.
- Report a stolen licence to the police: This is crucial to protect yourself from identity theft. Ensure you get a case number for any future claims or reports.
- Secure other items: If your licence was in your wallet, consider protecting credit cards or other ID that may have been lost as well.
- Assess replacement options: Decide between in-person, online, or mail replacement based on your situation.
Step-by-Step Guide to Replace Your Licence
Replacing your driver’s licence depends on whether you’re in Ontario or currently away. Below are the latest methods, updated for 2025.
Option 1: Replace Your Licence In Person (Best for First-Time Replacement)
- Prepare required documents:
- Two forms of identification: one showing your name and date of birth (e.g., passport) and another with your signature (e.g., credit card).
- Visit a ServiceOntario location: Use the ServiceOntario locator to find a location near you.
- Pay the fee: The replacement cost is $35.75 and can be paid using debit, credit card, cash, or cheque.
- Receive a temporary licence: Valid for 90 days, it allows you to drive while waiting for the new licence to arrive by mail.
- Wait for delivery: Your permanent licence will be mailed within 4 to 6 weeks.
Option 2: Online Replacement (Fastest for Most Ontarians)
- Check eligibility: Online replacement is available for those who’ve replaced a licence in Ontario within the past 8 years.
- Visit the ServiceOntario portal: Go to the official replacement page.
- Enter information: Provide your driver’s licence number, current address, and contact details.
- Pay online: A $35.75 processing fee applies, payable via Visa or Mastercard.
- Receive your replacement: The new licence will arrive by mail within 5 to 10 business days. There’s no temporary licence for online replacements.
Option 3: Replacement by Mail or Fax (If Out of Province)
- Write a signed letter: Include full name (as it appears on your licence), date of birth, licence number (if known), and your current address.
- Include payment: Enclose a cheque or money order for $35.75 payable to “Minister of Finance (MTO).”
- Mail or fax: Send the documents to the Ministry of Transportation at:
Ministry of Transportation
Information Services Office
87 Sir William Hearst Avenue
Toronto, Ontario M3M 0B4
- Processing: The new licence will be mailed within 10 to 15 business days.
Important Reminder: Report a Stolen Licence
Warning: If your licence was stolen, make identity protection a priority:
- File a police report and keep the case number.
- Contact Equifax and TransUnion to report potential fraud.
- Monitor your financial accounts and driving records for unauthorized activity.
- Consider using a dark web monitoring service to check if your information is compromised.
Pro Tips from ServiceOntario
- Use the online system: The fastest option, reducing delays during peak periods.
- Book appointments: Walk-ins are allowed, but scheduling ahead can save time (especially weekday mornings).
- Keep digital backups: Save images of your licence securely in cloud storage for emergencies.
New Updates for 2025-2026
Ontario has introduced exciting updates to streamline processes even more:
- Eligibility expanded for online replacement to include all residents starting January 2026.
- Mobile verification: A pilot program enabling temporary digital licences via smartphone is now in place.
- Licences now feature enhanced biometric and anti-counterfeiting technology.
Closing Tips: Replace Your Licence with Ease
Don’t panic if your Ontario licence is lost or stolen—they’re replaceable! Consider online methods for faster results, or visit ServiceOntario for in-person support.
Replace your licence online via ServiceOntario.
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