Rules of the Road — Ontario Driving Laws & Regulations
A clear, practical guide to Ontario's key traffic laws that every driver — beginner or experienced — must know.
Speed Limits
Default: 50 km/h in urban areas, 80 km/h on rural roads, 100 km/h on expressways. Always obey posted signs.
Stop Signs
Come to a complete stop at the stop line. Check all directions before proceeding.
Traffic Lights
Green: proceed. Yellow: prepare to stop unless unsafe to do so. Red: stop and wait.
Right-of-Way
At uncontrolled intersections, yield to the vehicle on the right. At 4-way stops, yield to the first vehicle to stop.
Seatbelts
All occupants must wear a seatbelt. The driver is responsible for passengers under 16.
Distracted Driving
It is illegal to use a handheld device while driving in Ontario. Hands-free use is permitted for fully licensed G drivers.
Impaired Driving
G1 and G2 drivers must have zero blood alcohol. Fully licensed drivers must be under 0.08 BAC.
School Zones
Reduce speed to the posted school zone limit (often 40 km/h). Watch for children at all times.
Emergency Vehicles
Pull over to the right and stop when an emergency vehicle with lights and sirens approaches.
Move Over Law
Slow down and move over when passing police, fire, ambulance, or tow trucks stopped with lights activated.