Ontario Driving Fines Guide 2026 — Complete Reference
Ontario's traffic fines are set under the Highway Traffic Act and can range from $60 to over $10,000 depending on the offence. This is the complete 2026 reference guide to Ontario driving fines — covering speeding, distracted driving, stunt driving, school zones, seatbelts, and every major traffic offence.
Based on the official Ontario Driver's Handbook and real DriveTest scenarios. Updated October 2026.
Speeding Fines in Ontario (2026)
Speeding fines in Ontario are calculated per kilometre over the limit. The faster you go, the higher the fine — and the more demerit points you accumulate. All amounts below are base fines before the 25% victim surcharge.
In school zones and community safety zones, fines can be doubled. In active construction zones, fines are doubled automatically.
Major Offence Fines — Complete Table
School Zone & Construction Zone Fines
School Zone / Community Safety Zone
- Speed limit: 40 km/h when children are present
- Speeding fines can be doubled by the court
- Distracted driving fines can be doubled
- Failing to obey crossing guard: 3 demerit points + fine
- Extra vigilance required during school hours
Active Construction Zone
- Speed limits typically 60–80 km/h (follow posted signs)
- Speeding fines are automatically doubled
- Workers present = heightened enforcement
- Failing to obey construction zone signs: fine + demerit points
- Fines apply even when workers are not present
Understanding Your Total Fine
The amount on your ticket is the base fine. Your actual total payment is higher due to mandatory additions:
This is before any insurance premium increases. A distracted driving conviction, for example, can cost $800–$1,300 in fines and surcharges alone — plus thousands more in increased insurance premiums over 3 years.
Quick Summary
- ✅ All fines include a 25% victim surcharge (minimum $10)
- ✅ Distracted driving: $615–$3,000 depending on conviction number
- ✅ Stunt driving (court): $2,000–$10,000 + up to 2-year suspension
- ✅ School zone and construction zone fines can be doubled
- ✅ Driving without insurance: $5,000–$50,000
- ✅ Failing to stop for school bus: $400–$4,000
- ✅ Fight tickets in court — paying = admission of guilt + demerit points
- ✅ Unpaid fines = licence suspension + registration hold
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Frequently Asked Questions
Do Ontario traffic fines include a victim surcharge?
Yes. All Ontario traffic fines are subject to a victim surcharge of 25% of the fine amount (minimum $10). This is added automatically and is not optional. Court costs may also apply, adding another $5–$20 to the total.
Can I fight a traffic ticket in Ontario?
Yes. You have the right to request a court date on any ticket. If you are found not guilty or the charge is withdrawn, you pay nothing and no demerit points are applied. Paying the fine is an admission of guilt. Many drivers successfully reduce or eliminate fines by requesting a court date.
Are fines higher in construction zones?
Yes. Fines for speeding and other offences in active construction zones are doubled in Ontario. Construction zone speed limits are typically 60–80 km/h and are strictly enforced.
What is the total cost of a distracted driving ticket including surcharges?
A first distracted driving conviction carries a fine of $615–$1,000. Adding the 25% victim surcharge and court costs, the total can reach $800–$1,300 for a first offence — before any insurance premium increases.
Can a fine be reduced in court?
Yes. A justice of the peace has discretion to reduce fines. Many drivers who appear in court receive reduced fines, especially for first offences with a clean driving record. A paralegal or traffic lawyer can often negotiate a reduction or withdrawal.
What happens if I do not pay a traffic fine in Ontario?
Unpaid fines result in your licence being suspended by the MTO. You cannot renew your licence or vehicle registration while fines are outstanding. The debt can also be sent to a collection agency.
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