Ontario Drivers Licence Suspended for Medical Reasons? Here’s What To Do

In Ontario, Canada, the Ministry of Transportation (MTO) has established stringent medical license standards to ensure drivers are physically and mentally fit to operate vehicles. Whether you are renewing your Ontario licence or beginning the graduated driver’s licensing system, you must not suffer from any mental, emotional, nervous, or physical disability that may interfere with driving.

Depending on the type of licence you hold, there are some different rules to consider:

Medical standards for class G & M licences

If you fall under this category, it's important to note that professionals like physicians, optometrists, and nurse practitioners must inform the government of any high-risk medical, vision, or functional condition that could hinder your driving ability.

Additionally, occupational therapists can report these conditions at their discretion. As a prerequisite for obtaining or renewing your licence, it's imperative that you do not have any of the following conditions:

• Medical or emotional disability that can significantly interfere with driving.
• Physical disability that can significantly interfere with driving.
• An addiction to alcohol or drugs to a point where it is likely to interfere – this can also lead to fines related to impaired driving and needed specialized DUI insurance if you are caught driving under the influence. In addition, the standards published by the Canadian Council of Motor Transport Administrators are also used for licensing decisions.

Vision standards for class G & M drivers

You must pass a vision test when applying for a G1 or M1 to drive. Your vision will be screened with both eyes open, whether or not you wear glasses or contact lenses.

• A visual acuity, which the Snellen Rating measures, is not poorer than 20/50.
• To meet the requirements, your visual field must extend horizontally for at least 120 degrees without interruption and vertically for at least 15 degrees above and below your focal point.

To apply for a vision waiver, your peripheral vision must meet a standard determined by the ministry. To be eligible for the waiver, you can’t have more than six demerit points, not have specific convictions within five years, and meet all qualifications for your licence. You’ll also have to provide a satisfactory medical report and a vision assessment from an optometrist.

Hearing standards for drivers

Those with hearing impairments or hearing loss can still obtain their G licence or M class. They can also have a hearing coach for any testing. You will need to submit a medical report before any testing.

You can learn more about the basic medical standards on the HTA’s Ontario Regulation 340/94.

If you get a medical condition while you have an Ontario driver’s license, your driver's license will be suspended due to the medical condition(s). Doctors are legally required to report anyone over 16 who they believe cannot safely drive due to a medical condition to the MTO. Once the health professional receives the report, it will be reviewed, and a decision will be made. If it is decided that you cannot drive due to medical reasons, you will receive a medical suspension. A letter will be provided outlining the process for reinstating your licence.

A driver’s medical health is not a factor in rate prices. However, convictions, tickets and fines, can impact how much you pay for Ontario car insurance. When comparing coverage options, you must confirm that you are qualified to hold a licence, which includes meeting the requirements for mental and physical fitness.

Even if you have a medical suspension, you can be charged a minimum of $1,000 and receive a six-month licence suspension after the medical suspension has been lifted. There is also the risk of imprisonment. Being caught can also increase your insurance rate and require you to get high risk insurance.