How to Renew a Driver’s License in Canada – 2025 Step-by-Step Guide

In Canada, a valid driver’s license is essential not only for driving but also for identification purposes. If your license is close to expiring, it is crucial to renew it on time to avoid penalties, fines, or driving suspensions. This 2025 step-by-step guide explains how to renew your driver’s license in Canada, covering both online and in-person renewal options, required documents, fees, and province-specific regulations.

1. When Should You Renew?

Driver’s licenses in Canada typically expire every 5 years (depending on the province). Renewal notices are usually sent by mail or email about 2–3 months before expiry. You should renew your license:

Before the expiry date shown on your card
Up to 6 months early (in most provinces)
As soon as possible if you receive a renewal notice

2. Renewal Options in 2025

Depending on your province, you can renew your driver’s license:

Online – Available in provinces such as Ontario, British Columbia, and Alberta for eligible drivers.
In-person – At Service Canada, ServiceOntario, or provincial licensing offices.
By mail – In limited cases, for residents temporarily outside Canada.

3. Required Documents

To renew your driver’s license, you will typically need:

Your current or expired driver’s license
Proof of identity (e.g., passport, birth certificate, PR card)
Proof of residency (e.g., utility bill, bank statement)
Renewal fee (varies by province)
Updated medical report (for senior drivers or specific license classes)

4. Renewal Fees (Approximate by Province)

Province	Renewal Fee	Validity Period
Ontario	~$90	5 years
British Columbia (ICBC)	~$75	5 years
Alberta	~$93	5 years
Quebec (SAAQ)	~$95	4–5 years

5. Online Renewal Process

Many provinces now offer online license renewal services. For example, in Ontario you can renew online if:

Your license is expiring within 6 months
You do not require a new photo or signature
You are not upgrading license classes
You do not have medical conditions requiring testing

Steps:

Visit your provincial licensing website
Log in with your driver’s license number and personal information
Upload required documents (if applicable)
Pay the renewal fee by credit or debit card
Receive confirmation and wait for your new card by mail

6. In-Person Renewal Process

For drivers not eligible for online renewal, in-person renewal is required. You may also be asked to:

Take a new vision test (mandatory in Ontario for ages 80+)
Provide updated medical or eye exam reports
Take a new photo

Most licensing centers issue a temporary paper license until your physical card arrives by mail.

7. Special Cases

Senior drivers (over 80) – Must complete a vision test, group education session, and possibly a road test (Ontario).
Commercial license holders – Additional medical requirements and fees may apply.
Residents abroad – Some provinces allow mail renewal if you are temporarily outside Canada.

8. Useful Links

For province-specific renewal details, visit the following official sites:

Conclusion

Renewing your driver’s license in Canada in 2025 is a straightforward process if you prepare your documents, know your provincial rules, and start early. Online renewal options are expanding, making the process faster for many drivers. However, in-person visits remain necessary for seniors, commercial license holders, and those with medical requirements. Always check your province’s official website for the most accurate information before renewing.

How to Renew a Driver’s License in Canada – 2025 Step-by-Step Guide