Ordering a driving record is easier when you know what information you need before you start. For Ontario’s common uncertified 3-year driver record, the most important detail is the Ontario driver’s licence number for the person whose record is being requested.
Taking a minute to check the details first can also help you avoid ordering the wrong type of record.
What is an Ontario 3-year driver record?
A driver record, often called a driver abstract, is a government-issued document containing information about a driver and their licence. Ontario’s common 3-year record includes driver identification details, the demerit-point total, active fine suspensions, and specified Highway Traffic Act and Criminal Code convictions, suspensions and reinstatements within the periods covered by the record.
It does not include the driver’s residential address. If you need a different kind of information, review the available record types before ordering.
What information should you have ready?
Ontario’s online process for an uncertified 3-year record requires the Ontario driver’s licence number for the record being requested. The government service also requires purchaser information and an accepted payment method.
Before submitting any request, carefully copy the licence number from a reliable source rather than entering it from memory. Ontario specifically warns that licence numbers are not validated for online record orders and that a purchaser can still be charged if no record is found because an invalid number was entered.
Why should you double-check the licence number?
A small typing error can matter. Because the online system does not validate the licence number before processing the record search, checking every character before submission is a worthwhile step.
If you are ordering your own abstract, use the number exactly as it appears on your Ontario driver’s licence. If a record is being requested for another person, make sure you have been given the correct Ontario licence number and that you understand why the record is being requested.
Confirm the record type before you order
“Driving record” can refer to several Ontario products. The common 3-year record is frequently used for employment, while a driver’s licence history contains different information and is commonly used for certain insurance or licensing purposes. Commercial drivers may instead be asked for a CVOR Driver Abstract.
If someone simply tells you to “get an abstract,” ask them to specify the record. Our 3-year vs. 5-year Ontario driver record guide and Driver Abstract vs. CVOR Driver Abstract comparison can help you understand common differences.
Do you need a certified or uncertified record?
Ontario states that uncertified records meet most people’s needs, while certified records carry a Ministry seal and are typically required for legal reasons. Do not assume you need the more formal version simply because the request is important. Confirm with the organization that asked for the record.
You can also read our certified vs. uncertified driver abstract guide before deciding.
What happens after an online uncertified order?
For Ontario’s government online service, an uncertified 3-year record is delivered as a PDF by email. Other ordering channels and certified records have different delivery processes. If timing matters, verify the delivery method for the exact record you need.
Ordering through GetMyAbstract.ca
If you have confirmed that you need a standard Ontario driver abstract, you can review our independent service and submit your information through the Driver Abstract order page.
Important: GetMyAbstract.ca is an independent third-party service and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or part of the Government of Ontario, ServiceOntario or the Ministry of Transportation. Always confirm the exact document requested by your employer, insurer or other organization before ordering.