New rules involve knowledge and medical tests.

The Ontario Ministry of Transportation (MTO) has released its new requirements for Class D license holders as of July 1, 2018. These new requirements will bring this level of licensing in line with other license class requirements in the province. The main changes that are occurring are:

Renewal requirements for Class D license holders:

• Up to 80 years old: will have to take a Class D knowledge test, along with a vision test every five years.
• 80 years and over: will have to take the knowledge test annually, along with an annual vision and road test.

Previous to this, no tests were required for renewing a Class D license under the age of 65. You can brush up on your knowledge by studying the Official MTO Handbook available online or for purchase at locations such as DriveTest or ServiceOntario. A knowledge test will cost you $23.25 in addition to the renewal fees, and if you take your vision test at a DriveTest Centre, there is no additional charge for the vision test.

Medical requirements for Class D license holders:

• Under the age of 46: will be required to submit a Medical Report once every five years.
• Between the ages of 46 and 64: will be required to submit a Medical Report once every three years.
• 65 and older will be required to submit an annual Medical Report.

The multi-stage age requirements are new, as before, medical tests were not required until after the license holder was over 80.  The Medical Report must be completed by either a physician or nurse practitioner licensed to practice in Ontario.

How to Submit Your Medical Report

The ministry will mail you your Medical Report 90 days prior to the due date. You can submit your Medical Report to any DriveTest Centre.  If you drive commercially in the U.S. with a Class D license you will still need to have proof of medical certification.

Why The New Rules?

These new requirements are to not only bring Class D license in line with other license classes, but also to adhere to the Canadian Council of Motor Transport Administrators (CCMTA) standards.  These standards are what the Canadian and American medical reciprocity agreement are based upon.  The MTO says these new license requirements will serve to strengthen road safety.

For more information:

Ontario Ministry of Transportation

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