Getting a motorcycle drivers license in Ontario is similar to getting an Ontario car driving license, in that there is a structured, Ontario graduated passenger vehicle licensing system developed by the Ontario Ministry of Transportation (MTO), which is made up of both written knowledge tests and road rests. The Ontario graduated motorcycle licensing process begins with the Ontario M1 License, followed by the Ontario M2 License, and finally, the M stage, or the full, unrestricted Ontario motorcycle driving license.
In order to make the Ontario graduated motorcycle licensing process as stress-free as possible, our team at ICanDrive.ca has put together everything you need to learn, practice and know in order to successfully pass all levels of the Ontario Graduated Motorcycle License program.
Choose the motorcycle license level you want to move to.
As mentioned above, the Ontario Motorcycle graduated licensing (GDL) process is made up of three separate licensing stages, which work together to ensure that every Ontario motorcycle driver is trained and well-equipped with the skills needed to be a safe motorbike operator. Each stage of the Ontario motorcycle GDL is structured to ensure a complete understanding of how to properly and safely operate with other drivers, vehicles and pedestrians. To actually ride your motorcycle on public roads, you must also be able to show valid Ontario motorcycle insurance, owner’s permit and license plates.
M1 Licence + M2 Licence → Ontario M Licence
The M1 test is a multiple choice knowledge test where each new motorcycle driver is tested on their knowledge of Ontario motorcycle road rules and road signs. The motorcycle knowledge test (sometimes called the M1 sign test) is to ensure that every Ontario motorcycle driver has a strong understanding of the environment in which they will be driving in before attempting on-road motorcycle training. In order to successfully pass this motorcycle knowledge test you will need to study the Ontario Motorcycle Handbook and do Ontario motorcycle knowledge test practice sessions until you feel confident you can pass the M1 sign test.
Motorcycle Knowledge Test + Vision Test → M1 Licence
You can get your M1 licence on your 16th birthday.
Here's how to get your M1 licence:
Bring personal identification
Bring the associated test fees
Take and pass the M1 knowledge test
Pass a vision test
The Ontario M2 license is step 2 in the Ontario graduated motorcycle licensing process. To get to this level, you must have practiced proper motorcycle driving techniques at the M1 license level and feel confident attempting the Level One road test.
M1 Riding (60 days) + Level 1 Road Test → Class M2 Licence
You must stay at the M1 level for a minimum of 60 days before you can attempt the Level One road test.
Here's how to get your M2 licence:
Bring a vehicle in good working order
Bring your M1 drivers licence
Arrive at least 30 minutes prior to your appointment
Take and pass the Level One road test
After you pass your Level One test, you must stay at the Level Two stage with your M2 licence for a minimum of 22 months before you can attempt the Level Two road test. Practicing motorcycle driving as much as possible at the second stage of the Ontario graduated motorcycle licensing process will ensue you are well prepared for Level Two or the Ontario M2 road test.
M2 Licence (22 months) + Level 2 Road Test → Class M Licence
You can get your M licence after holding a valid M2 licence for a minimum of 22 months.
Here's how to get your M licence:
Bring a vehicle in good working order
Bring the associated test fees
Arrive at least 30 minutes prior to your appointment
Take and pass the Level Two road test
Regardless of which kind of drivers license Ontario makes available to qualified applicants, we have you covered. Click the links below for more information.
Depending on where in Canada you live, the process of getting your Canadian driver's licence can be a bit different. Choosing your province or territory allows us to direct you to the right people and resources who can provide the best possible driver licensing information.