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Independence, safety, and medical review
Driving in Ontario
A seizure can affect your ability to drive and the status of your licence. Understand who makes licensing decisions, what information may be required, and where to find current guidance.
Important information
This webpage is subject to continuous review by Epilepsy Ontario to help keep the information current. It provides general information, not personal medical or legal advice or permission to drive. Consult your healthcare provider and the Ministry of Transportation about your circumstances.
Who decides whether you can drive?
Your healthcare team
Your healthcare provider assesses your health, advises you about safety, and provides medical information when required. Ontario law requires certain healthcare professionals to report specified conditions or impairments.
The Ministry of Transportation
MTO reviews medical information against the applicable standards and makes decisions about your driver’s licence, including suspension, conditions, and reinstatement.
A seizure-free period is not automatic permission to drive.
Do not assume you can resume driving because a certain number of months has passed, medication has been restarted, or you feel well.
If your licence is suspended, do not drive until it has been reinstated and any other requirements have been met. If you have a new seizure or an episode affecting safe driving, stop driving and obtain medical advice promptly.
What happens during a medical review?
- MTO receives information. A medical report or other information may lead to a review.
- You receive instructions. MTO may request additional medical information or notify you of a suspension or other decision.
- You provide the requested documents. Follow the instructions and submission dates in your correspondence.
- MTO reviews your case. Further information or assessments may be required.
- You receive a decision. Follow the official notice rather than assuming that sending documents restores your licence.
Preparing medical information
Bring your MTO correspondence and forms to your healthcare appointment. Ask which professional should complete them and how they should be submitted.
- Keep an accurate record of seizures and other relevant episodes.
- Report medication changes and effects that could affect driving.
- Keep copies of submitted documents and correspondence.
- Confirm your licence status if anything is unclear.
Different circumstances may involve different standards. A first seizure, seizures during sleep, medication changes, and commercial driving require individual consideration. This page cannot determine your eligibility.
If you disagree with a decision
Ask MTO what information is needed for reconsideration. Certain medical suspensions or downgrades can also be appealed to the Licence Appeal Tribunal.
Check the current process, forms, and fees. Filing an appeal does not itself restore permission to drive.
Planning while you are not driving
Consider public transit, community transportation, rides from trusted people, and changes to appointment or work arrangements. A local epilepsy agency may help you identify options in your area.
