If you need an Ontario driver abstract quickly for a job application or another request, you may be wondering whether an online abstract arrives digitally and whether you can print it yourself. For the common uncertified 3-year driver record ordered through Ontario’s online service, the record is provided as a PDF by email.
That makes it possible to save the digital file and print a copy when needed. But digital delivery does not mean every organization will accept every version of the record, so it is still important to confirm what the requesting party requires.
How is an uncertified Ontario 3-year driver record delivered online?
Ontario states that an uncertified 3-year driver record ordered online is sent as a PDF by email. The province instructs purchasers to print or save the record when it is received.
This differs from some other record products. For example, a driver’s licence history ordered online is processed and sent by regular mail rather than provided as a digital version. Certified records can also have different processing and delivery requirements.
Can you print the PDF yourself?
Yes. Ontario’s instructions for the online uncertified 3-year record specifically tell purchasers to print or save the record received by email. If an employer asks for a paper copy of an uncertified record, you can ask whether a printout of the digital PDF meets its requirements.
Keep the original digital file as well. A saved PDF can be useful if the requesting organization accepts electronic submission or asks you to resend the document.
Is a printed PDF the same as a certified driver record?
No. Printing an uncertified PDF does not turn it into a certified record. Ontario explains that certified records carry a Ministry of Transportation seal and are typically required for legal reasons. An uncertified record meets most people’s needs, according to the province, but the party requesting your record should tell you which version it requires.
For a deeper comparison, see our guide to certified and uncertified Ontario driver abstracts.
Why delivery method matters before you order
Not every Ontario driving-record product is delivered the same way. If you are facing an application deadline, first identify the exact record and version requested. Ordering a different product because its name sounds similar can create unnecessary delays.
The common 3-year record is often used for employment. A driver’s licence history, meanwhile, contains information such as licence replacements, renewals and class changes and does not include the conviction and suspension information found on the 3-year record. You can review how a driver abstract differs from a driver’s licence history if you are unsure which document was requested.
What should you do before sending a driver abstract to an employer?
Check the organization’s instructions. Confirm whether it accepts a digital PDF, wants a printed copy, requires the record to have been issued recently, or specifically asks for a certified document. Employer policies can differ, and there is no benefit in guessing.
If the request says only “driver abstract,” ask whether the standard 3-year Ontario driver record is acceptable. Our article on Ontario driver abstracts for employment covers additional considerations.
Need a standard Ontario driver abstract?
After confirming that a standard abstract is the correct document for your purpose, visit the GetMyAbstract.ca Driver Abstract order page to review our service and submit a request.
Important: GetMyAbstract.ca is an independent third-party service. It is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or part of the Government of Ontario, ServiceOntario or the Ministry of Transportation. Government processing methods and third-party acceptance requirements can change, so confirm the current requirements for your specific use.