Motorcycle Laws In Canada: What Riders Need To Know

Canada has some of the world's best motorcycling roads, from the epic views of the Cabot Trail to the European-like small towns of Quebec. If you're planning a trip to Canada on your bike, there are some important motorcycle laws to be aware of. These include the requirements for a valid motorcycle license, the need for specific insurance, and rules around safety gear and vehicle modifications. In this article, we'll explore the key motorcycle laws in Canada and provide tips for a safe and enjoyable riding experience.

Motorcycle licensing requirements

To operate a motorcycle in Canada, you must have a valid motorcycle license (M1, M2, or M class). This is separate from a G class driver's license, which does not cover motorcycles or mopeds. You must be at least 16 years old and pass a graduated license program, which takes a minimum of 20 months. The program includes a vision test and written tests covering road rules, road signs, and motorcycle knowledge. After passing these, you are eligible for a road test. Once you pass the level 1 road test, you receive your M2 license. The level 2 road test will grant you a full M-class license.

Before riding on public roads, your motorcycle must meet several requirements. It must be insured, and you must have third-party liability insurance of up to $200,000, direct compensation coverage for property damage, uninsured automobile coverage of up to $25,000, and accident benefits. Your motorcycle must have a valid license plate, vehicle permit, safety certificate, and bill of sale.

If you are crossing the border into Canada, you need a passport or passport card. You should be aware that the Fourth Amendment does not apply, and your motorcycle may be searched without a warrant. It is illegal to enter Canada with any drunk driving convictions, marijuana, or cannabis products.

In British Columbia, motorcycle drivers and passengers are required to wear safety helmets that meet specific safety standards and display the proper certification labels. The operator of the motorcycle must be seated astride the driver's seat, and passengers must be seated behind the operator with their feet on foot pegs or floorboards at all times, even when the motorcycle is stopped.

Rules for riding into Canada from the US

When riding a motorcycle into Canada from the US, there are several rules and requirements that you need to keep in mind to ensure a smooth border crossing. Here are some essential guidelines:

Documentation

Firstly, ensure you have the necessary documentation. If you are a US citizen, you must carry a valid US passport or passport card. Although a driver's license used to be sufficient, it is no longer enough to cross the border. Alternatively, if you are a US permanent resident, you must provide proof of both US citizenship and your permanent resident status, such as a valid US permanent resident card. It is recommended to carry both your US and Canadian passports if you are a dual national to facilitate your entry and return. Additionally, familiarize yourself with the customs regulations and what items you are allowed to bring across the border.

Criminal Record

Canada has strict rules regarding drunk driving convictions. If you have any drunk driving charges on your record, you may be denied entry into Canada. The Canadian authorities will check your criminal record upon your arrival at the border, so it is essential to be honest and cooperative during this process.

Motorcycle Requirements

Your motorcycle must meet certain requirements to be ridden on Canadian roads. Ensure that your motorcycle is insured and that you have third-party liability insurance of up to $200,000. Additionally, if you have made any customizations to your motorcycle or riding gear, ensure they comply with provincial safety standards. This includes the height of the handlebars, the noise level of the muffler, and the condition of your helmet, which must be worn at all times in Ontario.

Measurement Units

Remember that Canada uses the metric system for speed and distance measurements. It is advisable to switch your GPS or navigation device to metric as soon as you cross the border to avoid confusion and ensure your speed and directions align with the road signs.

By following these rules and guidelines, you can enjoy the beautiful scenery and exciting rides that Canada has to offer for motorcyclists. Remember to be prepared, honest, and cooperative with the border authorities to ensure a smooth entry into Canada.

Rights of motorcyclists on the road

Motorcycles are often seen as symbols of freedom and individuality. In Canada, motorcyclists have the same rights and privileges as all other drivers on the road. This means they are entitled to their space on the road, no matter the size of their vehicle. They have the same right of way as any automobile and can use an entire lane.

Motorcyclists are also subject to the same rules of the road as other vehicles. They must follow the same road laws as all drivers, including keeping a safe distance from other vehicles. In the case of a parking or speeding ticket, motorcyclists have the right to dispute an alleged infraction, just like other drivers. This includes appearing before a judge or justice of the peace in Provincial Offences Court to plead your case, as well as explaining extenuating circumstances and receiving due process.

To operate a motorcycle in Canada, you must have a valid motorcycle license (M1, M2, or M class). This is separate from a G-class driver's license, which does not cover motorcycles and mopeds. To obtain an M-class license, you must be at least 16 years old and pass a graduated license program, which includes a vision test and written tests covering rules of the road, road signs, and motorcycle knowledge.

Your motorcycle must also meet certain requirements to be used on public roads. It must have a valid safety certificate, be insured, and carry third-party liability insurance of up to $200,000. If you are customizing your motorcycle or riding gear, you must meet additional requirements, such as ensuring your helmet conforms to provincial safety standards and that your handlebars are properly maintained.

Safety gear requirements

Canada has stringent motorcycle safety laws, recognising that motorcycle riders are more prone to accidents and injuries than car drivers. All 10 provinces and three territories in Canada have their own motorcycle safety laws, but they all require riders and passengers to wear a helmet that meets designated safety standards.

The safety helmet must be labelled to display the certification label. The most common certification in Canada is the SNELL certification, which is an updated version of a set of motorcycle helmet safety tests created by the SNELL Memorial Foundation, a private non-profit dedicated to improving motorcycle helmet safety. Other certifications include the DOT FMVSS 218 standard and the ECE sticker.

In Ontario, helmets must meet one of the three standards that British Columbia requires, or one of the following: Canadian Standards Association Standard D230 Safety Helmets for Motorcycle Riders, which shall bear the monogram of the Canadian Standards Association Testing Laboratories; or the British Standards Institute and shall have affixed thereto the certificate of the British Standards Institute.

In British Columbia, helmets must meet one of the following safety standards and display the proper certification label: DOT: conformance with the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard; SNELL; ECE; British Standard Institute; or Canadian Standards Association. If police have probable cause to suspect that the motorcycle driver or passenger is not using an approved helmet, they are authorised to inspect helmets at the roadside. Inspected helmets that do not meet the approved standards are subject to seizure.

In addition to a helmet, motorcyclists in Canada are required to wear other safety gear to protect themselves. This includes a sturdy jacket with arm coverage from shoulder to wrist, made of leather, synthetic materials designed for motorcycling, or heavy denim. Riders must also wear sturdy boots that completely cover the feet and ankles, such as leather construction boots, sturdy hiking boots, cowboy boots, or army boots. To protect the eyes, riders should wear a helmet visor, goggles, glasses, or sunglasses. Gloves are also necessary, with full-fingered gloves that extend past the wrist bone, preferably made of full leather or with leather palms.

Noise restrictions

Canada has laws that govern how loud motorcycles can be. Transport Canada sets maximum noise limits on all new motorcycles sold in the country at around 86 decibels, which is about as loud as a lawnmower. The only way to make motorcycles louder is to modify the exhaust system, which is neither loud nor emissive by itself and, therefore, not subject to manufacturing regulations. As a result, the onus is on the rider to ensure that no laws are broken once the system is installed.

The Ontario Highway Traffic Act 75(4) states that it is unlawful for a driver to "at any time cause the motor vehicle to make unnecessary noise." While this is open to interpretation, it is clear that exhaust systems that spit flames are illegal across Canada. For off-road riders, a spark arrestor is required on crown land, but private property and some closed-course MX parks can be ridden without one.

While noise regulations are complex, riders can ensure they are within the law by not modifying their motorcycle's exhaust.

Frequently asked questions