Apply Today For Your Enhanced Driver's Licence
May 5, 2009 10:13 AM
McGuinty Government Launches Convenient Passport Alternative For Ontario Drivers
Ontario drivers who are Canadian citizens can now apply for the Ontario Enhanced Driver's Licence.
Nine ServiceOntario centres are now accepting applications for this passport alternative, which can be used at Canada-U.S. land and water border crossings.
An enhanced driver's licence is completely optional, and is an additional $40.00. Those who wish to apply for a licence should visit www.ServiceOntario.ca to book an application appointment. Appointments will be available starting May 19, with the first batch of licences projected for delivery by June 1.
As of June 1, 2009, the United States government's Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) requires Canadian citizens entering the United States by land or water to present a valid passport or approved secure document that establishes the bearer's identity and citizenship. A valid passport is still required to enter the U.S. by air.QUICK FACTS
- Appointments will be available at nine ServiceOntario locations: Thunder Bay, Sault Ste. Marie, Windsor, St. Catharines, Toronto Downtown, North York, Kingston, Cornwall and Ottawa.
- In a typical business day, Ontario issues almost 15,000 driver’s licences.
- Almost 35 million passenger cars cross Ontario - U.S. borders each year.
- The busiest crossing is the Ambassador Bridge in Windsor with more than 6 million passenger vehicles crossing each year.
LEARN MORE
- About Ontario's Enhanced Driver's Licence
- How To Apply For An Ontario Enhanced Driver's Licence
- Enhanced Driver's Licence Applicant's Guide
- Visit the Canada Border Service Agency's website for more information on the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative, including new rules for traveling to and from the U.S.
CONTACTS
- Bob Nichols
Communications Branch
416-327-1158
Bob.Nichols@ontario.ca - Greg Dennis
Minister’s Office, Ministry of Government Services
416-327-3072
- Nicole Lippa-Gasparro
Minister's Office
416-327-1815
Nicole.Lippa-Gasparro@ontario.ca - For public inquiries please call
Service Ontario
1-800-387-3445
416-235-2999
ontario.ca/transportation
"As a convenient, affordable and secure alternative to a passport, Ontario’s enhanced driver’s licence will help keep goods and people moving safely and efficiently across our borders."
– Jim Bradley
Minister of Transportation
"ServiceOntario is excited to be able to offer this product to Ontarians, as part of making it easier for people to get a wide range of services, including birth certificates, driver’s licences, business registrations, and now enhanced driver’s licences."
– Ted McMeekin
Minister of Government Services
Communities
