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Ontario Driver's Handbook Overview

May 16, 2025

The Official Ministry of Transportation (MTO) Drivers Handbook

Introduction

  • Ontario is a leader in road safety in Canada and North America.
  • The Ministry of Transportation has implemented measures to improve driver behavior and reduce collisions.
    • Most collisions are due to driver error (e.g., following too closely, speeding).
    • New drivers are at a higher risk of serious collisions.
  • Graduated Licensing System (GLS) helps new drivers gain skills in low-risk environments.
  • Handbook provides basic information on learning to drive in Ontario.

Handbook Overview

  • Provides rules of the road, safe driving practices, and licensing information.
  • Recommended for all drivers to take an advanced driver training course.
  • For official laws, refer to the Highway Traffic Act and its Regulations.

Key Sections

Getting Your Drivers Licence

  • Steps and requirements for obtaining a driver's license in Ontario.

Safe and Responsible Driving

  • Preparing to drive.
  • Driving techniques and sharing the road.
  • Handling intersections, stopping, and changing directions.
  • Parking, freeway driving, and dealing with specific situations.
  • Night driving and driving in adverse weather conditions.
  • Handling emergencies and driving efficiently.

Traffic Signs and Lights

  • Identification and understanding of signs, lights, pedestrian signals, and pavement markings.

Keeping Your Drivers Licence

  • Ways to maintain your driver's license and avoid losing it.

Your Vehicle

  • Vehicle maintenance, insurance, and registration.
  • Towing guidelines.
  • Sample knowledge test questions for self-assessment.

The Level Two Road Test

  • Information on preparing and taking the Level Two road test.

Off-road Vehicles & Snowmobiles

  • Guidelines and regulations for off-road vehicles and snowmobiles.

Additional Resources

  • Official MTO Motorcycle, Truck, Bus, and Air Brake Handbooks for specific vehicle licenses.
  • Contact numbers and resources for alternate formats of the handbook.

Important Notes

  • Drive safely and remember driving is a privilege, not a right.
  • This handbook is a guide; official laws are in the Highway Traffic Act and other related Acts.