Operationg a Amateur Radio while driving in Ontario

Under Ontario Regulation 366/09 of the Highway Traffic Act, Exemption 13 permits licensed amateur radio operators to use hand-held two-way radios while driving. [1, 2]

Key Details of the Exemption

• Permitted Activity: Drivers may hold or use a two-way radio while operating a motor vehicle on a highway.
• Eligibility: This exemption applies only to drivers who hold a valid radio operator certificate issued under the Radiocommunication Act (Canada).
• Permanent Status: While originally introduced as a temporary measure, the exemption was made permanent effective February 14, 2020, by revoking the "expiry" clause previously found in subsection 13(2). [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]

Operational Requirements

• Certification: Drivers should carry a copy of their ?? of Proficiency in their vehicle to prove eligibility if stopped by police.
• Device Types: The exemption applies specifically to two-way radios (typically a main receiver with a separate hand-held microphone).
• Mounting (Section 14): While Section 13 covers the use of the device, ?? allows any driver to press a button on a hand-held device for communication as long as it is securely mounted and can be used with a quick glance. [1, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10]

The Official Ontario e-Laws website provides the most current version of this regulation for verification. [1, 6, 11]

Would you like to know more about the penalties for distracted driving if an exemption does not apply?

This information was obtained by Ai on April 15 2026 . always ask law informent should you need clarrifcation??