Certain commercial driver's licences now require proof of legal ability to work in Canada

Plain-language summary · AI-assisted · not legal advice

A new provision ties specific classes of Ontario driver's licences to a requirement under the Highway Traffic Act that applicants demonstrate they are legally entitled to work in Canada. Class A, B, C, D, E, and F licences are all captured by this rule. However, Class D licences issued under the minister's special authority (the provision covering certain non-standard situations) are excluded from this requirement. The section is stated to apply despite the Human Rights Code, meaning that Code protections do not override this work-authorization check. Licence applicants in these classes should be prepared to provide evidence of their eligibility to work in Canada as part of the licensing process.

Who this affects: applicants for Class A, B, C, D, E, and F driver's licences · commercial truck and bus drivers · employers who sponsor or require workers to hold commercial licences · new immigrants or temporary residents seeking commercial driving licences