CVOR Application Process

NOTE: the process below is current of November 17, 2023

Step 1: Submit your application (Online or by Fax/Mail)

Note: if you had a CVOR record issued previously, you cannot use the 'new application' process (online / paper). You have to use a different process called 'Re-Entry'

You can submit your application online

https://www.newcvorcertificate.mto.gov.on.ca/

  • You will need to create "ONE KEY" account, if you don't have one already.
  • Then you'll be able to submit your application
  • You will still need to fill and scan/upload a PDF file in the process (it's called a consent form)

Alternatively you can apply by Fax or Mail. The application flow forks the type of the applicant: corporate or personal (includes sole proprietors).

IMPORTANT - READ THIS Note:

  • The PDF file is "sophisticated" (interactive). If you have trouble opening the file, you can use the 'blank' version as applies to your application type.

Corporate Applications:

Blank Corporate CVOR Application (PDF Downloadable)

Blank Corporate CVOR Application - Consent Form (required)

Personal Applications (includes sole proprietors):

Blank Personal CVOR Application (PDF Downloadable)

Blank Personal CVOR Application - Consent Form (required)

Payment Form:

(Yes, you can with a credit card)

cvor-application-credit-card-form.pdf

Watch the video how to fill the pdf file


Mailing Address (Completed Applications):

CVOR Processing Unit

Licensing, Permits and Support Office

301 St. Paul Street, 3rd Floor

St. Catharines, Ontario

L2R 7R4

Fax:

905-704-3033

Email / eFaxes:

  • you can't send your CVOR application by email successfully; the system will automatically reject it citing 'sensitive information' (credit card info)
  • you can't send your CVOR application by eFax; a service where you first email the fax server your information and then the fax server sends a fax to the ministry (same reason as above)
  • faxes that are physically connected to a landline still work


Step 2: Wait for a letter "CVOR Test Required"

  • Ontario based carriers will receive a letter, instructing them to take the written test
  • Only a director of the corporation or the individual applying can take the test
  • The application processing times vary between 6-10 weeks

Step 3: Take the test at DriveTest center

  • take the letter "Written Test Required" together with documentation listed on the letter to the nearest DriveTest Center facility (appointment is not required)
  • the letter will list specific individuals who can take the test (applicant, director/owner)

Step 4: Receive CVOR certificate

  • DriveTest center will send your test results to CVOR Processing Unit
  • The CVOR Office will conduct a final review of the file, and
  • issue a CVOR certificate (within 1-2 business days, usually delivered by email)

Frequent Questions

Do I need to register a business to apply?

Registering a business is not required. You can submit a 'personal' application. To do so, choose "Personal" on interactive PDF or simply print PDF file marked personal application.

It is recommended to apply for a CVOR license as a corporation. By having this setup you shield your personal assets from third party liability. Note that registering a "Master Business License" or a "Trade Name" is NOT the same as registering a corporation. Trade Name for all legal intents and purposes is the same as personal application. 

For people registering under a trade name, select "personal" type of application.

Can I apply with a G license?

Yes. An individual/corporation is not required to have a driver license to apply for CVOR.

They do need to ensure that whoever is driving their vehicles has a valid and adequate driver license.

Scenario: Gary bought a 11,000kg dump truck. 

Gary has a G license, Gary applies for CVOR and get his authority.

Gary hires David with D license to drive his 11,000kg dump truck.

This scenario is legitimate and common.

Can I apply without a driver license?

Yes. An individual/corporation is not required to have a driver license to apply for CVOR.

They do need to ensure that whoever is driving their vehicles has a valid and adequate driver license.

Scenario: Gary bought a 11,000kg dump truck. 

Gary has a G license, Gary applies for CVOR and get his authority.

Gary hires David with D license to drive his 11,000kg dump truck.

This scenario is legitimate and common.


When can I operate?

You can operate once you have certificate in your hands.

Submitting application, and/or passing required does not qualify person/company to operate "CVOR" vehicle.

How to prepare for the test?

The ministry does provide a 400+ pages "commercial vehicle operators safety manual".

http://www.mto.gov.on.ca/english/trucks/commercial-vehicle-operators-safety-manual/ 

Many people find it overwhelming. Hence, our company offers many different training options for all skill levels.

Where can I take CVOR test?

If you have this question, then you either:

  • did not apply, or
  • did not receive "Written Test Required" letter after applying

You want to submit your CVOR application first, and wait for the letter. The "Written Test Required" letter will outline where, how and when you can take a CVOR test.

Note, that you cannot walk into Service Ontario or DriveTest Ontario and apply/take a test there. You need to apply using the process outlined on the application form. CVOR application office is central to all of Ontario and is located in St. Catherines,  Ontario. For all intents and purposes, there is no "walk-in" option.