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Most Ontario cities provide public transportation services
for residents. Public transit systems use buses and may
also have streetcars, trains or subways. Public transit
systems have regular routes, stops and schedules. Pub-
lic transit costs are different in each city. To use public
transit, you will need to pay cash or buy tickets, tokens
or a monthly pass.
For more information about public transit in your area,
contact your local municipality or visit
www.mto.gov.
on.ca/english/traveller/transit.htm
. You can also look
in the blue pages of your phone book under “Transit” or
“Transportation”.
Ontario Day to Day
Workbook 2010
21
PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION
If you want to drive, you must have a valid Ontario driver’s
license. Ontario’sMinistry of Transportation is responsible
for issuing licenses and registering vehicles. To drive in
Ontario you must also have auto insurance. If you own a
vehicle, you must register it with the Ministry.
For more information about driving, getting a license, or
registering a vehicle, call Driver and Vehicle Licensing at
1-800-387-3445 or visit
www.mto.gov.on.ca/english/
dandv/driver/index.html
DRIVING IN ONTARIO
In an emergency situation call 911 from the nearest available phone. These calls are free.
Emergencies can include fearing for your safety or the safety of others, having a fire in your
home, or suddenly feeling very sick. When you call 911, explain to the operator what is happening,
where you are, and say your name, address and phone number. Depending on your situation
ambulance, police, fire department or other emergency services will be sent to assist you.
Most cities have a 911 service. If your community is not equipped with 911 services, dial 0 and
ask the operator for help. Other emergency numbers are listed in the white pages of your local
phone book. Make sure you know how to find these numbers quickly.
EMERGENCIES
Ontario has a publicly-funded health care system. The
Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) pays for most basic
and emergency medical services for Canadian citizens
and permanent residents. OHIP does not pay for all
medical expenses. For example, medications and dental
services are not covered by OHIP.
To receive health services through OHIP, you must apply
for an OHIP card. You should apply for an OHIP card as
soon as you arrive in Ontario. There is a general waiting
period of 3 months to receive your OHIP card. You may
want to buy private health insurance while you wait to
become eligible for OHIP.
To apply for an OHIP card, youmust go to a ServiceOntario
office. You will have your photo taken. You will also have
to fill out a registration form and provide the following
original documents:
•
Proof of citizenship or permanent residency status
•
Proof of residency, e.g. a lease agreement
•
A document that confirms your identity
To find the nearest ServiceOntario office, call 1-866-
532-3161 or visit
www.ontario.ca/en/services_for_
residents/STEL02_186323
For information about OHIP and the application process,
call the Ontario Health Card Information System at 1-800-
664-8988 or visit
www.health.gov.on.ca
HEALTH CARE
OHIP