For anybody new to the Great White North, one of the biggest realizations that one could have is that the country’s open roads are perfect for a ride on a two-wheeled street, especially in Ontario. 

What makes riding in Ontario so special?

If you’ve come to the country in hopes of finding the perfect location for an ultimate riding experience and freedom on the road, then Limestone City is definitely where you should be. The city’s community of riders is regarded as one of the finest in the world because they’ve swapped out a chaotic approach for a sustainable community that values the environment and the freedom they’re given. 

In fulfillment of this greater desire for appreciating freedom, the Ministry of Transportation has also rolled out some of the most rigorous standards for getting a motorcycle license in Ontario. This test is one that embodies the responsibility of a rider to brush up on the necessary skills and knowledge to ride safely on the road. 

An overview of the general process

When it comes to getting the necessary licenses to operate a motorcycle in Ontario, it’s worth noting that the Ministry of Transportation has laid out a sequential process that is different from an American procedure. With a gradual learning process—which is broken up into the M1, M2, and M stages—riders will be able to pick up necessary skills and driving habits at a moderate pace to ensure safe experiences over time!

The approved courses administered by the governing body can be availed through a non-profit school or local college and will set an applicant back anywhere between CAD 400 to 500. The price may seem steep at first, but it’s important to note that the comprehensiveness of the courses involved and the available privileges make the experience worth every money spent. 

To best understand and know what you’ll need to expect when applying for an Ontario motorcycle license, let’s go over each stage in greater detail:

The first step: M1

This test is a multiple-choice examination that acts as an introduction to the entire process. This part entails studying the local motorcycle handbook thoroughly so that you will know the rules and regulations that are involved. When you pass this basic exam, not only will you be cleared to move on to an M2 exam (after 60 days), but you’ll also be able to ride a motorcycle on your own as long as you follow these conditions:

  • You can only ride during daytime hours
  • You cannot ride on any 400-series highway
  • You must always have a zero percent blood-alcohol content when riding
  • You cannot have a passenger on your bike

The second step: M2

After the 60 days, you can head over to a ministry office and have your M2 test taken there, but it’s important to note that you need to bring your own bike. 

This particular phase is comprised of an in-class session and a subsequent two-day practical course that takes up one’s entire weekend. When attending the course, you’ll need to bring your M1 license and all the necessary safety equipment listed by the Ministry of Transportation. On the first day of the exam, you’ll have to go over the basics and fundamentals of motorcycle operation while undergoing a few hours of practice. The second day, on the other hand, is spent refining the skills you learned on the first day and taking the M2 test itself at the end of the session. 

If you pass the M2 test, then you’ll be able to ride on a 400-series highway and at night time while being eligible for an M test!

The final step: M

Once you’ve obtained your M2 license, you can then take the final exam in the licensing process and undergo necessary training for safe riding in traffic environments. By the time you get your M license after passing the administered exam, you’ll be certified as a fully-licensed rider with the basic skills needed to ride safely on Ontario roads!

Conclusion

With this three-part test, getting your Ontario motorcycle license can easily make for a detailed experience that is crucial in forming the right riding habits that will serve you well in the long run. By following this guide, you can begin your process with all the right expectations!

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