Effective May 1, 2026, Ukrainian citizens living in Ontario can exchange their valid Ukrainian driver's licence for an Ontario driver’s licence without having to take a knowledge or road test. Drivers still need to meet vision and medical standards.

The procedure was inaugurated at Queen’s Park by Hon. Prabmeet Singh Sarkaria, Ontario Minister of Transportation, and H.E. Andrii Plakhotniuk, Ambassador of Ukraine to Canada. It helps make the transition easier for newly arrived Ukrainians, particularly those displaced by Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, while ensuring continued road safety in the province.

Eligibility and Required Documents

Upon application for exchange of a Category B Ukrainian driver’s licence for an Ontario Class G driver’s licence, the holder will provide the following documentation to verify their eligibility:

 1. The holder’s Ukrainian driver’s licence with a photograph of the holder,

2. An original Authentication Document, issued within the past six months directly by the Embassy of Ukraine in Canada, the Consulate General of Ukraine in Toronto, or the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Ukraine, confirming the validity and driving experience of the licence holder, and

3. Acceptable identification confirming the applicant’s identity.

If the documentation above cannot be provided in English or French, the documentation must be accompanied by a certified translation. Upon approval of the application, the Ukrainian driver’s licence must be surrendered to Ontario authorities. 

“Ontario is proud to stand with Ukrainian families who have come to our province in search of safety and stability. This change will make it easier for eligible Ukrainian citizens to exchange their valid driver’s licence for an Ontario licence, helping them adjust to life here while continuing to meet Ontario’s high road safety standards.” - Prabmeet Sarkaria, Minister of Transportation” - Prabmeet Singh Sarkaria, Ontario Minister of Transportation 

“Ontario’s decision to recognize Ukrainian driver’s licences is a practical and important step that will help Ukrainians maintain their daily and professional lives and remain active while they are in Canada. For many who were forced to leave their homes because of Russia’s brutal full-scale military aggression against Ukraine, having effective driver’s licenses is essential, as it means access to work, education, services, and basic mobility. We are grateful to the Government of Ontario for this decision and hope it will encourage similar approaches across Canada.” - Andrii Plakhotniuk, Ambassador of Ukraine to Canada