This chapter tells you what licence you need to drive a motorcycle, a motor tricycle, a limited-speed motorcycle (LSM) and a motor-assisted bicycle (moped) in Ontario, whether you are a new driver, a visitor or a new resident. It explains the graduated licensing system, including the tests you will have to pass and the driving privileges you will have at each licence level.

Types of vehicles requiring a class M licence

There are four types of vehicles for which you require a motorcycle class of licence to drive on public roads in Ontario: motorcycles, motor tricycles, limited-speed motorcycles (LSMs) and motor-assisted bicycles (mopeds).

Restrictions

A driver will have their Class M licence restricted to the type of vehicle they bring to the road test, e.g., if a driver brings a LSM for their road test their licence will be restricted to LSM only and they may not drive a full class M vehicle. A restricted class M licence for motor tricycles has a condition that will allow licence holders to drive three-wheeled motorcycles only. A restricted class M limited-speed motorcycles and mopeds will allow licence holders to drive these vehicles only.

Motorcycles

The Ontario Highway Traffic Act (HTA) defines a motorcycle as a self-propelled vehicle with a seat or saddle for the driver, designed to travel with not more than three wheels in contact with the ground. For definitions refer to motorcycle licence types.

Motorcycles must be registered with the Ministry of Transportation and have a valid motorcycle licence plate attached in order to be driven on public roads in Ontario.