A driver’s licence suspension can create a lot of practical questions, especially when an employer, insurer or other organization asks you for a driving record. One common question is whether a suspended licence prevents you from obtaining an Ontario driver abstract.
The key is to separate two different things: your authority to drive and the record that documents your driving and licence information. A suspension affects your legal ability to drive, but a driving record is a document containing information about a driver and their licence.
What is an Ontario driver abstract?
Ontario describes a driver record, also called an abstract, as a government-issued document containing information about a driver and their driver’s licence. Different record products contain different information, so the correct document depends on why it has been requested.
The common three-year driver record, for example, includes information such as driver identification, licence status and expiry date, licence class, conditions and endorsements, Highway Traffic Act and Criminal Code convictions, suspensions and reinstatements over the covered period, and demerit points.
For a closer look, see our guide to what shows on a three-year Ontario driver abstract.
Does a suspension make your driving history disappear?
No. A suspension does not erase the underlying driving record. In fact, licence status and certain suspension information are among the reasons a driving record may be useful to an employer or another organization evaluating driving-related eligibility.
That does not mean an abstract gives you permission to drive. Ontario states that drivers are responsible for ensuring they have a valid licence before driving. If your licence is suspended, you should not treat possession of an abstract, an order receipt or a pending reinstatement as authorization to operate a vehicle.
Why might someone request an abstract while a licence is suspended?
There are several situations in which a person may still need documentation of their driving history. An employer may be reviewing a candidate for a future driving position, an organization may need to verify historical information, or the driver may simply want to understand what appears on their record.
However, the requesting organization should tell you which record it needs. A three-year driver record, driver’s licence history, five-year record and other Ontario driving products are not interchangeable.
What if you are trying to reinstate your licence?
Obtaining a driving record and reinstating a suspended licence are separate processes. Ontario’s reinstatement requirements depend on why the licence was suspended and how long it has been suspended. Requirements can include resolving outstanding fines or court processes, completing required programs, supplying documents, paying applicable fees, or completing tests.
Medical suspensions have their own review process. Ontario may review requested medical information before deciding whether a licence can be reinstated, and additional requirements may apply.
If your main goal is reinstatement, follow the instructions on your suspension or reinstatement notice and use the official Ontario resources applicable to your situation.
Check which record you actually need
Before ordering, ask the employer, insurer or organization for the exact name of the record it requires. This avoids paying for a document that does not satisfy the request.
If you are comparing common records, our guide to three-year versus five-year Ontario driving records explains some of the differences.
Need help ordering a driver abstract?
If you have confirmed that a standard Ontario driver abstract is the document you need, you can review the GetMyAbstract.ca Driver Abstract service.
GetMyAbstract.ca is an independent private service and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or part of the Government of Ontario or the Ministry of Transportation. This article provides general information and is not legal advice.