M1 Licence Age Requirements in Ontario – Your First Step to Freedom

Mark Hamilton

M1 Licence Age Requirements

In Ontario, individuals must be at least 16 years old to apply for a Class M1 motorcycle licence, the initial stage in the province’s graduated licensing system for motorcyclists. To obtain an M1 licence, applicants are required to pass both a vision test and a written knowledge test that assesses their understanding of traffic laws and safe riding practices.

The M1 licence is valid for 90 days, during which new riders must adhere to specific restrictions designed to enhance safety.

These restrictions include:

Riding only during daylight hours
Avoiding high-speed expressways
Maintaining a zero blood alcohol level

After holding the M1 licence for at least 60 days, riders are eligible to take the Level One road test to advance to the M2 licence. The graduated licensing system is structured to ensure that motorcyclists gain the necessary experience and skills progressively, thereby promoting safer riding habits on Ontario’s roads.

Jamie turned 16 and wants his M1:

When Jamie turned 16, the first thing they wanted wasn’t a car—it was a motorcycle. The freedom, the wind, the thrill—it all just felt right. So, they studied up, passed the written test, and walked out with an M1 licence in hand.

For the next two months, Jamie stuck to the rules—no night riding, no highways, and always stone-cold sober. They practiced every chance they got, cruising around town during the day, getting used to the balance, the turns, and the feel of the road. It wasn’t just about riding—it was about getting good at it.

After 60 days, Jamie was ready. They booked their Level One road test, passed it, and officially moved up to an M2 licence. More freedom, more places to explore—and way more confidence. The whole process made Jamie a better, smarter rider. And it all started with that first M1 at 16.