If you’re ready to experience the freedom of riding a motorcycle in Ontario, you’ll need two things: a motorcycle license and insurance. But don’t worry – it’s easier than you think! This guide will walk you through how to get licensed, what restrictions apply at each stage, and how to find affordable motorcycle insurance so you can hit the road with confidence.
Step 1: Understanding Ontario’s Motorcycle Licensing System
Ontario uses a graduated licensing system to help new riders gain experience before earning their full Class M license. It’s a three-step process designed to build your skills while keeping you safe.
M1 License (The Starting Line)
This is your learner’s permit, and getting it is simple:
- Pass a written test on motorcycle rules and road safety.
- Your M1 is valid for 90 days and comes with a few beginner-friendly restrictions:
– Ride only during daylight hours
– Stay off highways over 80 km/h (with some exceptions)
– No passengers (keep it solo for now!)
– Zero alcohol or drugs before riding
Want to move up faster? Take an MTO-approved motorcycle safety course – you’ll be able to get your M2 sooner!
M2 License (More Freedom!)
After at least 60 days with an M1, you can take a road test or complete a safety course to get your M2. This unlocks more riding privileges:
- Ride at night
- Carry passengers
- Still zero alcohol while riding
You’ll need to hold your M2 for 22 months before testing for your full M license – but if you take a safety course, you can upgrade in just 18 months!
Full M License (Ultimate Riding Freedom!)
Take your final road test, and you’re fully licensed with no restrictions. Now, the open road is yours!
Step 2: Do You Need Motorcycle Insurance? (Yes, and Here’s Why!)
Just like a car, motorcycle insurance is mandatory in Ontario. It protects you, your bike, and others on the road in case of an accident. Without it, you can’t legally ride.
The good news? Getting insured as a new rider is easier than you think! At Riders Plus Insurance, we specialize in helping beginners find affordable coverage, so you can focus on the ride.
Step 3: How to Get Motorcycle Insurance as a New Rider
M1 Riders – Yes, You Can Get Insured!
- Most providers don’t offer insurance coverage for M1 riders – but we do!
- If you complete a motorcycle safety course, you’ll get better insurance options sooner.
- Rates are higher for M1 riders, but you’ll only be in this stage for a short time.
Smart Move: Get your M2 as soon as possible to unlock more insurance options and lower rates!
M2 Riders – More Options, Better Rates!
Once you have your M2, more insurance providers will compete for your business. Your rate depends on:
- Your motorcycle: Sport bikes cost more to insure than cruisers.
- Your riding experience: The longer you ride without claims, the better your rate.
- Your driving record: Tickets or accidents? They’ll impact your premium.
- Completing a safety course: Many insurers offer discounts!
Pro Tip: Shop around for quotes – not all insurance providers charge the same rate!
Step 4: Borrowing a Bike? Here’s What You Need to Know
Yes, you can ride someone else’s motorcycle – but there are a few things to keep in mind:
- The motorcycle must be insured under the owner’s policy.
- You must carry the owner’s insurance slip while riding.
- If you crash, the owner’s insurance covers damages – but their premiums could go up.
Not ready to buy your own bike? Borrowing one is a great way to build experience – just make sure you’re covered.
Step 5: Should You Take a Motorcycle Safety Course? (Absolutely!)
An MTO-approved motorcycle safety course isn’t required, but it’s a game-changer for new riders.
- Lower insurance rates: Many providers offer discounts for safety course graduates.
- Faster licensing: Take your M1 to M2 test immediately after the course instead of waiting 60 days!
- Better riding skills: Learn defensive riding, emergency braking, and real-world riding techniques.
Riders who take a safety course tend to be safer, more confident, and pay less for insurance.
Step 6: Get the Best Motorcycle Insurance as a New Rider
- If you’re an M1 rider: Get covered now and take a safety course to move up quickly.
- If you’re an M2 rider: Compare quotes and ask about discounts for safety courses and multi-bike
policies. - If you’re borrowing a bike: Make sure you understand how the owner’s insurance works.
At Riders Plus Insurance, we make getting insured easy, affordable, and stress-free. Whether you’re just starting with an M1 or upgrading to an M2, we’ll help you find the best coverage so you can ride with confidence!
Ready to Ride? Get a Free Quote Today! We can insure your home and auto too for better bundled savings!
Call us at 1-877-251-4504 or get a free motorcycle insurance quote online!
join the conversation