Keeping your driver’s licence and licence plates up to date is one of those responsibilities that’s easy to overlook, until it becomes a problem. As we head into 2026, it’s a good time for Ontario drivers to refresh their understanding of how renewals work, what’s changed in recent years, and how missed deadlines can affect more than just your wallet.
At Merit Insurance, our Merit Difference means helping clients stay informed and avoid surprises, whether it’s compliance issues, coverage gaps, or claim complications.
No More Paper Reminders — The Responsibility Still Applies
Since March 2022, the Ontario government has stopped mailing paper renewal reminders for both driver’s licences and licence plates. While the process has changed, the legal responsibility has not.
Drivers are still required to:
- Renew their driver’s licence before it expires
- Renew their licence plates every one or two years, depending on eligibility
Failing to renew can result in fines under the Highway Traffic Act, even if no reminder was received.
A Note on Automatic Licence Plate Renewal
Some Ontario licence plates may qualify for automatic renewal, depending on eligibility and enrollment status. Automatic renewal helps reduce the risk of missed deadlines—but it does not apply to all drivers or vehicles, and certain conditions must still be met, including having valid insurance on file.
Drivers should confirm their eligibility directly through ServiceOntario.
Learn more here: https://www.ontario.ca/page/licence-plate-renewals
What Happens If You Miss a Renewal?
The consequences of forgetting to renew can be more serious than many drivers realize:
- Licence plate renewal fines can reach up to $1,000
- Expired driver’s licence fines can be up to $325
- Driving without a valid licence may invalidate parts of your auto insurance policy
- In some cases, coverage could lapse entirely, creating major issues if a claim occurs
Licence plate renewal also confirms that valid automobile insurance is on file, something required by law in Ontario.
Digital Reminders Are Now the Default
Instead of paper mail, the province offers free digital renewal reminders through ServiceOntario.
Once enrolled, reminders are sent:
- 60 days before expiry
- 30 days before expiry
Notifications can be received by:
- Text message
- Phone call
- Or a combination of all three
These reminders apply to both driver’s licence and licence plate renewals and are one of the easiest ways to stay on track.
How to Stay Ahead in 2026
To avoid unnecessary penalties and complications, we recommend:
- Signing up for digital reminders if you haven’t already
- Saving renewal dates in your personal calendar with alerts
- Renewing early—especially before vacations or long weekends
- Confirming your insurance details are accurate before renewing your plates
If you’ve recently changed vehicles, moved, or updated your coverage, it’s especially important to ensure everything aligns before completing your renewal.
How This Connects to Your Insurance
While renewals are handled through ServiceOntario, they’re directly connected to your insurance. An expired licence or unrenewed plate can delay claims, create coverage gaps, or complicate payouts, situations no driver wants to deal with.
Need Help or Have Questions?
If you’re unsure about your renewal status, have questions about how licence or plate issues affect your insurance, or want to review your auto coverage heading into 2026, your broker is here to help.
Staying informed is one of the simplest ways to protect yourself on the road and it’s part of the Merit Difference.
