Everything you need to know about getting your licence in Ontario

This article has been updated from a previous version. 

Obtaining a driver’s licence in Ontario is an important milestone, offering freedom, mobility, and new opportunities.  

Ontario’s licensing process follows a three-step graduated system. It starts with a written test, progresses to an initial road test, and concludes with a final advanced driving assessment. Once you pass all three stages, you'll be able to drive across the country without restrictions. 

We’ve included up-to-date rules, tips, and resources to help you move forward with confidence. 

Understanding the Ontario graduated licensing system (GLS)

To promote safer roads and help drivers build their skills over time, Ontario’s Graduated Licensing System (GLS) is divided into three distinct stages: 

1. G1 Licence - Knowledge-based entry-level licence. 
2. G2 Licence - An intermediate stage requiring practical driving experience. 
3. Full G Licence - The final stage, with no restrictions for everyday driving. 

You’ll have up to five years to complete all three stages, though you can move through the system faster if you complete an approved driver’s education course. 

Stage 1: Getting your G1 licence

The first step in the GLS is earning your G1 licence, known as a learner’s permit. A G1 license allows you to drive with some restrictions. The G1 written test covers Ontario road signs, traffic laws, and safe driving practices. It includes multiple-choice questions and is available in over two dozen languages.  

To apply for a G1 licence, you’ll need to: 

• Be at least 16 years old. 
• Have valid identification such as a passport, birth certificate, or Canadian citizenship card. 
• Have proof of Ontario residency. 

How you can prepare: 

• Study the Ontario Driver’s Handbook, available online, through your local library or at DriveTest Centres. 
• Take practice tests to familiarize yourself with the format. 
• Visit a DriveTest Centre to take your knowledge and vision tests. These are walk-in services, but ensure you arrive at least an hour before closing. 

Cost: The G1 licence package costs $159.75 and includes fees for the knowledge test, the vision test, and your G2 road test booking. 

G1 licence restrictions

Once you get your G1 you must: 

• Drive with a fully licensed G driver who has at least four years of licensed driving experience in the passenger seat. 
• Stay off the roads between midnight and 5 a.m. 
• Stay off 400-series highways or expressways unless accompanied by a licensed driving instructor. 
• Maintain a zero-blood alcohol level. 

Learn more: Everything you need to know about car insurance if you're a student 

Stage 2: Getting your G2 licence

After holding a G1 licence for a requisite amount of time and gaining practical experience, you’re eligible to apply for a G2 licence. A G2 license allows you to drive unaccompanied, with some restrictions. The G2 road test assesses your basic driving skills, such as obeying traffic signals, turning, parking, and lane changes. It takes about 20–30 minutes. 

To be eligible to apply for a G2 licence, you’ll need to:  

• Have held your G1 licence for 12 months (or eight months if you complete a Beginner Driver Education (BDE) course approved by the Ministry of Transportation). 
• Meet all vision and medical requirements. 

How you can prepare: 

• Practice regularly under G1 licence conditions. 
• Consider enrolling in a government-approved driver’s education course, which not only prepares you but may also give you an insurance discount. 
• Use the Ministry’s G Road Test Guide so you’re clear on what’s expected. 

This test assesses your basic driving skills, including: 

• Turning left and right 
• Stopping 
• Parallel parking 
• Navigating one-way streets 
• Lane changes 
• Performing three-point turns 
• Driving through residential areas 
• Handling traffic lights, stop signs, and yield signs 

Cost: The G2 test fee is typically covered in the G1 package price. Retakes, if necessary, will cost you $53.75 

G2 licence restrictions

G2 licence holders can now drive independently, but must: 

• Maintain a blood alcohol level of zero. 
• Ensure all passengers wear seat belts. 
• Drivers under 20 years old: 
  •  You can only have one passenger aged 19 or under between midnight and 5 a.m. for the first six months. 
  • After six months, this limit increases to three passengers aged 19 or under during these hours. 

Learn more: This is how traffic tickets affect your insurance rate in Ontario 

Stage 3: Getting your full G licence

The last step is obtaining your full G licence. After holding your G2 licence for a minimum of 12 months, you can schedule your final road test, whether or not you completed a The G test evaluates your advanced driving skills, including merging onto highways, driving at high speeds, and parallel parking. This test makes sure you’re ready for unrestricted driving. 

How to prepare: 

• Practice highway driving and familiarize yourself with rules for merging, overtaking, and lane use. 
• Build confidence by practicing parking and safe distance keeping. 

Cost: The G road test in Ontario costs $91.25 per attempt, and this fee is not included in the initial licensing package. If you need to retake the test, you must pay the fee again for each attempt. 

Unlike the restrictions that come with G1 and G2 licences, a full G licence comes with no such limitations. You can enjoy advantages such as: 

• No driving restrictions. 
• Lower insurance premiums, as you’re seen as a lower-risk driver. 
• Full flexibility to drive under any conditions. 

Related: How a gap in your car insurance history can affect your rate 

At what stage do you need your own insurance?

In Ontario, the need for your own car insurance depends on your licence level: 

G1 licence  

As a G1 driver, you cannot purchase your own insurance policy or register a vehicle in your name. Instead, you must drive under the supervision of a fully licensed driver (G or higher) and use their insured vehicle.  

If you regularly practice with a family member or a friend’s car, consider being added as an occasional driver to their insurance policy. By doing so, you’ll make sure that you’re covered while driving and unlock lower insurance premiums by starting your insurance and driving record.Adding a G1 driver typically doesn’t increase the policy holder’s insurance premium. 

G2 licence  

Once you obtain your G2 licence, you can drive independently. Because auto insurance is mandatory in Canada, you’ll need to be listed on an insurance policy. If you’re driving a family member’s car, you can remain an occasional driver on their policy or be added as one.  

However, if you own a vehicle, you’ll need to purchase your own insurance policy. G2 drivers are considered higher risk, so premiums may be higher, but completing a driver’s education course can help reduce costs. 

Full G licence 

With a full G licence, you have no driving restrictions and, like with the G2, you can fully own and insure a vehicle in your name. At this stage, maintaining a clean driving record can help lower your insurance premiums over time. 

Earning your Ontario driver’s licence is more than a test of skill. It’s a learning process that creates safer roads for everyone. By following the GLS steps, you’ll be driving with confidence in no time.  

Related: How much auto insurance do you need in Canada?

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Here are answers to some common questions about Ontario’s licensing process.

1. What happens if I fail a test?

If you fail a test, don’t worry! You can retake it. For written tests like the G1 knowledge exam, you can usually try again the same day. For road tests (G2 or G exams), you’ll need to wait at least 10 days before booking another attempt. Each retake test requires a separate fee, so make sure you’re well-prepared to save time and money.

2. Can I drive in other provinces with a G1 or G2 licence?

With a G1 licence, you must always drive with a fully licensed driver (G licence holder) and cannot drive on 400-series highways or in certain conditions, restricting interprovincial travel. However, G2 licence holders can usually drive in other provinces, as long as they follow the conditions of their licence, such as zero alcohol levels.

3. How do I book a test online?

You can book your G1, G2, or G road test online through the DriveTest website or ServiceOntario. Just create an account, enter your information, and select the type of test you’re booking. After choosing your preferred location, date, and time, you’ll receive a confirmation email. Make sure your details are accurate and review cancellation policies in case you need to reschedule.

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