Canada has rolled out a brand-new driving licence appointment system in 2025, aiming to cut long waits, boost transparency, and make it easier for everyone to book their driving tests. The update replaces outdated walk-in and phone booking methods with a centralized, fully digital platform accessible across multiple provinces.
For years, new drivers complained about frustrating delays, often waiting months for a test slot. This change is part of Canada’s wider effort to modernize public services and make them more efficient. Whether you’re after your G1, G2, or full licence, here’s what’s new and how to book.
Updates
The 2025 DL appointment system brings some major upgrades:
- A single online portal for booking, rescheduling, or cancelling tests
- Real-time slot availability across multiple test centres
- Integration with provincial transport departments
- Faster rebooking after cancellations
- Email and SMS reminders to avoid missed appointments
- Accessibility improvements for rural and remote areas
These improvements are designed to slash wait times and make test slot allocation fairer.
Provinces
By August 2025, several provinces have fully adopted the online model, including Ontario, British Columbia, and Alberta, with others following suit.
| Province | Booking Method | Test Types Covered | Average Wait Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ontario | DriveTest Online Portal | G1, G2, Full | 2–4 weeks |
| British Columbia | ICBC Online Scheduler | Class 5, 7 | 1–3 weeks |
| Alberta | MyAlberta eServices | Class 5, 6 | 1–2 weeks |
| Quebec | SAAQ Online | Class 5, 6 | 3–5 weeks |
This shift comes after 2024’s backlog crisis, when urban applicants sometimes faced delays of three months or more.
Booking
The process now follows five simple steps:
- Visit your province’s transportation website.
- Log in or create an account.
- Pick your licence type and preferred location.
- Choose a real-time available slot.
- Confirm and pay online to receive instant email/SMS confirmation.
If someone cancels, their slot appears immediately, giving others a chance to grab it without calling or waiting.
Benefits
The changes come with clear wins for drivers:
- Efficiency – No more endless queues or phone hold times
- Transparency – You can see exactly what’s available and when
- Flexibility – Easy online rescheduling
- Accessibility – Better coverage for rural areas
- Cost savings – Fewer people paying third-party services to book for them
Preparation
To book smoothly, make sure you have:
- A valid learner’s permit or existing driver’s licence
- Government-issued ID and proof of address
- Credit or debit card ready for payment
- Any required course completion certificates
The 2025 Canada Driving Licence Booking overhaul represents a huge step toward making licensing faster, fairer, and more user-friendly. By linking provincial platforms into a single online network and adding real-time scheduling, this system will save time, reduce stress, and make sure no slot goes to waste.
Whether you live in Toronto’s busy suburbs or a small northern community, the new system is built to make your road to a licence smoother than ever.
FAQs
How do I book a driving test in 2025?
Use your province’s online booking portal.
Which provinces use the new system?
Ontario, BC, Alberta, and Quebec so far.
Can I reschedule my driving test?
Yes, you can reschedule online anytime.
Do rural applicants benefit from changes?
Yes, with better accessibility and slot options.
Are cancellations updated in real time?
Yes, cancelled slots appear instantly.
