Manitoba Public Insurance (MPI) has introduced a new digital service allowing businesses and the public to verify driver licences online without visiting a service centre.
The Licence Lookup tool, unveiled Monday, enables users to confirm whether a Manitoba driver holds a valid licence by entering the driver’s licence number. The system displays three pieces of information: licence validity status, class and stage of licence, and any driving restrictions.
The service targets employers, volunteer organizations, vehicle owners, non-profit agencies, and external licensing jurisdictions that need to verify drivers meet legal requirements before operating vehicles.
MPI cited internal data showing that suspended drivers or individuals with prior suspensions are more likely to be involved in fatal collisions. The Crown insurer said providing fast access to licence information helps reduce risk by keeping unlicensed or restricted drivers off Manitoba roads.
However, the tool does not permit searches by name and does not display personal details such as addresses or dates of birth. Users must already possess the driver’s licence number, requiring licence holders to consent to sharing their information.
“Privacy is very important to us,” said Maria Campos, vice-president and chief customer and product officer for MPI. “The tool will only provide the validity, class, and restrictions. MPI will not provide a driver’s licence number to anyone.”
Before Licence Lookup’s launch, many employers relied on Driver In-Force letters to confirm licence validity. Employees had to request these documents in person at MPI service centres, a process critics called outdated and inefficient.
The new online tool aims to eliminate that administrative burden, offering near-instant confirmation. It can assist non-profits with staff operating agency vehicles, other licensing jurisdictions with reciprocal exchange agreements, vehicle owners considering lending their vehicles, and volunteer coordinators responsible for driver screening.
