Most Canadians give themselves failing grades on artificial intelligence knowledge, yet three-quarters pass basic AI tests and more than half use the technology to make daily tasks easier, according to a new survey from TD Bank Group.
The 2025 TD AI Insights Report reveals a significant gap between how Canadians view their AI abilities and their actual competence with the technology. While 87 per cent say they’re comfortable learning and using new technologies, only three per cent gave themselves an “A” grade for AI skills.
However, when tested on basic AI knowledge, 72 per cent of respondents passed, suggesting many Canadians know more about artificial intelligence than they realize.
Younger workers lead AI adoption in the workplace
The survey found notable differences across generations in both AI familiarity and workplace usage. Gen Z workers are most likely to report being familiar with AI at 83 per cent, compared to just 38 per cent of Baby Boomers.
In workplace settings, 69 per cent of employed Gen Z respondents say AI makes them more productive at their jobs. That number drops to 50 per cent for Gen X workers and 38 per cent for Boomers.
Perhaps most telling, 34 per cent of employed Canadians admit to using AI at work without their boss knowing, including 48 per cent of Gen Z workers.
Trust remains the biggest barrier
Despite growing usage, trust in AI remains low among Canadians. The survey found only 43 per cent trust AI as a source of honest, reliable information—significantly lower than trust levels for friends and family (90 per cent), pharmacists (89 per cent), and banks (81 per cent).
AI even ranks below news media (62 per cent) in trustworthiness, though it scores higher than social media influencers (19 per cent).
“While the survey suggest many Canadians appear to be comfortable adopting technology, AI still feels unfamiliar to many,” said Christine Morris, Senior Executive Vice President at TD Bank Group. “That lack of familiarity matters. If people don’t understand how a technology works or how it helps them, they’re less likely to trust it.”
Implications for employers
The findings suggest employers may need to address both education and trust-building around AI tools in the workplace. With more than one-third of workers using AI without management knowledge, organizations face potential governance and compliance challenges.
The generational divide in AI comfort levels also points to different training needs across age groups. While younger employees may be more willing to experiment with AI tools, older workers who show less familiarity may require more structured support and education.
“At TD, we recognize that trust in AI isn’t a given. It is earned through careful management and ongoing human oversight,” said Luke Gee, Chief Analytics & AI Officer at TD Bank Group. “Doing what it takes to help maintain our clients’ trust in AI remains at the forefront of TD strategy.”
Survey methodology
The survey was conducted by Ipsos between March 17-31, 2025, on behalf of TD Bank Group. It included 2,500 Canadian respondents and has a margin of error of plus or minus 2.2 percentage points, 19 times out of 20.
