Ontario Opening HOV Lanes to More Drivers on Provincial Highways

March 17, 2026

The government is proposing a regulatory amendment to the Highway Traffic Act that would allow single-occupant vehicles to use High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lanes during off-peak hours, making better use of existing highway infrastructure to help reduce gridlock and keep drivers moving on provincial highways.

Ministry of Transportation modelling shows the change would improve travel times for all users, with average speeds increasing in both HOV and general-purpose lanes across major highways during off-peak hours. If implemented, this change would take place before the end of 2026, following a period of public consultation.

News Releases:

En: HOV Lanes

Fr: Voies réservées aux véhicules à occupation multiple