Have you recently lost your driver’s license in Ontario and are unsure what to do next? It’s a frustrating experience, but fortunately, replacing your lost driver license in Ontario is a straightforward process, if you know where to start.
Whether you’re currently living in the province or away on travel, Ontario has a defined system to help you replace your license quickly and securely.
In this guide, you’ll discover everything you need to know, from where to go, what documents to bring, how much it will cost, and how long it will take.
You’ll also learn about your options if you’re outside Ontario, how to protect yourself from identity theft, and what happens if you’re caught driving without it. With proper steps, you’ll be back on the road legally and safely in no time. Let’s break down the process clearly and efficiently.
What Should You Do First If You’ve Lost Your Driver’s License in Ontario?
Losing your Ontario driver’s licence can feel overwhelming, but the first steps are critical to protect your identity and ensure a smooth replacement process. The moment you realise your licence is missing, you should act fast.
The very first thing you should do is report the loss to your local police department, especially if you believe the licence may have been stolen. While not legally required, filing a police report can protect you from potential identity theft.
Once that’s done, gather the necessary documents to prove your identity, including those verifying your full name, date of birth, and signature. These are essential for applying for a replacement through ServiceOntario.
Here’s a quick checklist of immediate actions:
- Report the lost or stolen licence to local police
- Gather acceptable identification documents (passport, health card, birth certificate)
- Avoid driving until you receive your temporary licence
- Plan your visit to a ServiceOntario centre or submit a request online if outside Ontario
Taking these steps early minimises delays and legal risks. Also, remember that your temporary driver’s licence, issued during the replacement process, will allow you to drive legally while you wait for your new card. By acting swiftly, you’ll stay compliant and reduce the chances of misuse of your personal information.
Where Can You Go to Replace a Lost Driver License in Ontario?
If you are currently residing in Ontario, replacing a lost driver license is only possible by visiting a ServiceOntario centre in person. Online replacements are not permitted for residents physically in the province. At the centre, you’ll need to bring valid personal identification that includes your full name, date of birth, and signature.
Some acceptable forms of ID include:
- Canadian Passport
- Ontario Photo Health Card
- Birth Certificate issued in Canada
Once you’re at ServiceOntario:
- Submit your application to replace the licence
- Pay the fee
- Present your valid identification
- Receive a temporary driver’s licence immediately
This temporary paper licence enables you to continue driving legally while your permanent card is processed and mailed. The new physical licence will arrive at your registered mailing address within 4 to 6 weeks, barring delays such as postal disruptions.
ServiceOntario does not accept appointments for this process, so it’s wise to check the wait times and operating hours of your nearest location before going. Make sure your documents are complete and valid to avoid rejections or follow-ups.
If you’re unsure which centre to visit, the Ontario.ca website allows you to search by postal code or region. Taking this route ensures the quickest path to having a legal, valid licence back in your wallet.
How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Lost Driver’s License in Ontario?
Replacing your lost driver’s licence in Ontario involves a standard fee of $35.75. This applies whether you’re applying in person, online, or by mail/fax from outside Ontario.
For in-person applications at a ServiceOntario centre, you can typically pay using:
- Credit Card (Visa or Mastercard only)
- Debit Card (Interac)
- Cash
- Certified cheque or money order
If you’re applying from outside the province, payment options include:
- Mailing a cheque or money order payable to the Minister of Finance (MTO)
- Sending a completed Credit Card Authorization Form via mail or fax
- Including a signed letter of authorisation with full card details (name, number, expiry date)
Remember that postage or mailing charges are not applied, so the $35.75 is the total amount due. However, only Canadian financial instruments are accepted, no American Express, Visa Debit, or Mastercard Debit.
Also, if you request a new driver’s licence photo (which is optional unless yours is outdated), an additional fee of $35.75 applies. Having all payment details sorted beforehand prevents unnecessary delays in processing.
If the payment is incorrect or your authorisation form is incomplete, your replacement request may be cancelled within 15 business days. Always double-check before sending. By understanding the fee structure clearly, you can ensure a seamless and fast replacement experience.
Can You Replace Your Ontario Driver License Online or from Outside the Province?
Yes, if you’re currently outside Ontario, you can replace your lost driver’s licence through online, mail, or fax channels. However, this process involves specific steps and requirements, especially if you’re planning to be away for a long duration.
What Are the Online, Mail, or Fax Options for Replacement?
You can initiate the process online via the official ServiceOntario portal. Once your request is submitted, you will be asked to complete and submit a Signature Authorization Form and, if paying by card, a Credit Card Authorization Form.
If applying by mail or fax, send a signed letter with:
- Your full name as it appears on your licence
- Your driver’s licence number (if known)
- Your date of birth
- How long you’ll be away
- Your out-of-province address and contact information
Who is eligible to apply from outside Ontario?
You’re eligible for out-of-province replacement if:
- Your driver’s licence is valid and not suspended
- You are away for a temporary period (less than or more than 6 months)
- You can provide a secure, verifiable address for delivery
Who is Eligible to Apply From Outside Ontario?
What are the steps to request a temporary licence?
- Submit your request online, by mail, or fax
- Complete and send the required forms (Signature and Credit Card Authorisation)
- Pay the $35.75 fee
- Temporary licence is mailed within 1 to 2 weeks
- Full licence is delivered to your out-of-province address within 4 to 6 weeks
Once back in Ontario, you’ll need to visit ServiceOntario to upgrade your temporary licence into a permanent one. Keep all receipts and communication for verification.
What Documents Do You Need to Replace Your Lost License?
To replace a lost Ontario driver’s licence, you must present acceptable documentation that verifies three key identifiers: your full name, date of birth, and signature. Without these, ServiceOntario will not process your application.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Primary ID: A valid Canadian passport or Ontario Photo Health Card
- Proof of birthdate: Birth certificate issued by a Canadian province or territory
- Proof of signature: Your current or previous driver’s licence, or another government-issued ID that contains a signature
If you’re outside Ontario and applying by mail or fax, you’ll also need:
- A signed Signature Authorization Form
- A Credit Card Authorization Form or a cheque/money order for payment
- A letter stating your situation and contact details
When submitting documents by fax or mail, they must be clear and readable. Any missing or incorrect paperwork can delay your application or cause it to be cancelled within 15 business days.
For best results, double-check your forms before sending. Make sure all documents are original or certified copies, photocopies or blurry scans may be rejected.
Carrying these documents to your ServiceOntario visit or including them in your remote application ensures a smooth, fast replacement process. It’s always better to over-prepare than risk delays or denials.
How Long Will It Take to Receive Your New Driver’s License?
Once you apply for a replacement driver’s licence in Ontario, the timeline is fairly standard across all methods. If applying in person, you will receive a temporary driver’s licence immediately after processing your request. This allows you to continue driving legally while your permanent card is printed and mailed.
Your new physical licence will typically arrive within 4 to 6 weeks. This applies whether you’re in Ontario or receiving it by mail at an out-of-province address.
If you’re outside Ontario, the temporary licence will usually be mailed to you within 1 to 2 weeks of submitting your completed application and payment. The full replacement card follows the same 4 to 6-week window.
Delays can occur due to issues with your application, incorrect forms, or postal disruptions. To avoid this, ensure all your documents are accurate and complete before submission. ServiceOntario recommends tracking your delivery timeline, and if your licence doesn’t arrive after 6 weeks, you should contact them for assistance.
Having realistic expectations on delivery times will help you plan accordingly and avoid unnecessary stress or legal trouble.
Can You Still Drive Without Your Physical Licence in Ontario?
In Ontario, you are legally required to carry your driver’s licence while operating a motor vehicle. Driving without your physical licence, even if it’s lost, can result in fines if you’re stopped by law enforcement.
However, once you apply for a replacement, ServiceOntario provides a temporary paper driver’s licence during your visit. This document is considered valid proof of your driving privileges and must be carried at all times until your new licence arrives.
If you are outside the province and awaiting delivery of your temporary licence by mail, you should avoid driving until you receive it. Although your information may be in the system, not having physical documentation can still lead to complications or tickets.
Never assume a verbal explanation is enough during a traffic stop. Always ensure you have a legally recognised form of driver identification. It’s better to wait a few days for the temporary licence than risk fines or additional paperwork due to non-compliance. Having the right documents on hand keeps you safe and legally protected behind the wheel.
Is It Safe to Replace Your License Online?
Replacing your lost driver license online while outside Ontario is safe, as long as you follow the proper procedures set by ServiceOntario. The platform is protected by government security standards and data encryption protocols to safeguard your personal information.
When submitting your request online, you’ll be asked to download, sign, and upload a Signature Authorization Form. You may also need to send a Credit Card Authorization Form if you choose to pay by credit card. Both these documents are essential for completing your application.
Here are a few safety tips to keep your information protected:
- Use only the official Ontario government website to submit your request
- Avoid sending sensitive forms through public Wi-Fi
- Do not share your licence details or personal data with unofficial third parties
- Make sure you send all required forms within 15 business days to avoid cancellation
Always keep a copy of every document you submit and note the submission date for tracking purposes. If your temporary or permanent licence does not arrive in the expected time frame, contact ServiceOntario immediately using their toll-free number.
By following these precautions, you can confidently manage your replacement application and reduce any risk of fraud or identity theft.
Are There Special Cases for Long-Term Travel or Extended Absence from Ontario?
Yes, Ontario has made provisions for individuals who are away from the province for an extended period. Whether you’re studying, working, or living temporarily outside Ontario, you can still replace a lost driver’s licence, provided you meet specific criteria.
If you’ll be away for less than 6 months, you may be eligible to receive a one-time, temporary driver’s licence. This document is mailed to your out-of-province address and is only valid for a fixed period. You must replace it with a new permanent licence upon your return to Ontario.
For those away more than 6 months, you can apply for a full replacement with your current photo and expiry date, as long as your licence remains valid.
You’ll need to send:
- A completed Signature Authorization Form
- A Credit Card Authorization Form or cheque/money order
- A letter detailing your situation, licence details, and address
Once your request is approved and processed, your new licence will be mailed to your current location in 4 to 6 weeks.
These options provide peace of mind to those who need to maintain valid driving credentials, no matter how long they’re away. Always plan ahead and ensure forms are submitted early to avoid disruptions to your travel or mobility.
Conclusion
Losing your driver’s licence in Ontario doesn’t need to be a stressful ordeal. Whether you’re in the province or currently away, the system in place ensures that you can replace your licence quickly and securely.
By reporting the loss promptly, gathering the right documents, and choosing the appropriate replacement method, you’re already on the right path.
Remember to always carry your temporary licence while waiting for your permanent card, and follow the recommended precautions when applying online to avoid identity theft. Understanding the process saves time, avoids fines, and keeps you legally on the road.
Stay informed, prepared, and proactive. That’s the key to handling a lost Ontario driver’s licence with confidence and efficiency.
FAQs
Can I drive while waiting for my replacement driver’s licence in Ontario?
Yes, as long as you have the temporary driver’s licence issued by ServiceOntario, you’re legally allowed to drive.
What should I do if I lost my licence while outside Ontario?
You can replace it online, by mail, or fax, and receive a temporary licence at your out-of-province address.
Is it mandatory to file a police report for a lost driver’s licence?
While not required, it’s highly recommended to prevent identity theft or misuse of your personal details.
Can someone else replace my licence on my behalf?
No, you must complete the replacement process yourself either in-person or by submitting your documents directly.
Will I get the same licence number after replacing it?
Yes, your licence number and expiry date typically remain the same, unless changes are required due to legal updates.
What happens if I lose my temporary licence too?
You must visit a ServiceOntario centre for a replacement or contact them if you’re outside the province.
Can I update my photo while replacing a lost licence?
Yes, you can request a new photo at the time of replacement, and a $35.75 fee applies.
