Ontario to Tighten Driver’s Licence Rules Linked to Immigration Status by 2026

Big changes are coming to Ontario’s licensing system. Ontario implements stricter driver’s licence requirements tied to immigration status starting in 2026 as part of Bill 60, a major reform linking driving privileges directly to legal status and work authorization in Canada. The goal is to strengthen road safety, reduce fraud, and ensure that only authorized residents and workers hold valid licences.

What the New Law Means

Starting in early 2026, the Ministry of Transportation will verify every applicant’s immigration status before issuing or renewing a driver’s licence. This means individuals must hold a valid Canadian residency, citizenship, or a recognized work or study permit to qualify.

Temporary visitors, such as tourists or short-term visa holders, will no longer be eligible to apply for commercial driver’s licences, a change aimed at closing loopholes that allowed ineligible drivers to operate heavy vehicles.

New Standards for Commercial Drivers

Under the new system, applicants for Class A commercial licences must complete at least one full year of Canadian driving experience before qualifying. The law also ends automatic recognition of foreign licences from countries without reciprocal agreements.

This ensures that commercial drivers, especially those handling transport vehicles, are properly trained in Canadian traffic laws and safety standards. Authorities say the changes will not only reduce fraudulent licence applications but also improve public safety on highways and work routes across Ontario.

Impact on Immigrants and Foreign Workers

While the changes strengthen regulatory standards, they may also affect newcomers who depend on driving for employment. New immigrants arriving with foreign commercial licences may face delays before meeting the one-year experience rule.

To offset these challenges, the Ministry is expected to create transitional support programs, such as verified driver training, to help immigrants qualify faster. For personal (non-commercial) licences, most permanent residents and valid work or study permit holders will still be able to apply without issue.

Why Ontario Introduced These Measures

Officials cite a growing number of fraudulent licence applications involving individuals without legal status as a key reason for the reform. By verifying immigration documents directly with federal databases, Ontario aims to ensure only eligible residents operate vehicles professionally.

These measures align with broader national goals to maintain road safety, accountability, and integrity within Canada’s transportation systems, especially as demand for commercial drivers continues to rise.

Stricter But Safer Roads Ahead

As Ontario implements stricter driver’s licence requirements tied to immigration status starting in 2026, the province takes a firm step toward more secure licensing practices. While newcomers may face additional steps, the long-term outcome promises safer roads, fewer fraudulent applications, and a system built on transparency and compliance with Canadian law.