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How to Get Your G1 Licence in Ontario

DriveInOntario Team

Independent Ontario driving guide

Updated 2026-07-19

Ontario uses a three-step graduated licensing system: G1 → G2 → G. Your G1 is the first step, and it starts with a written knowledge test — no road driving required yet.

Step 1: Check you're eligible

You must be at least 16 years old and pass a vision test at a DriveTest centre.

Step 2: Book your G1 knowledge test

Book online through ServiceOntario or in person at a DriveTest centre. DriveTest is strict about identification, so bring exactly what's required.

What you must bring

You need original, valid (not expired) identification that proves your legal name, date of birth, and signature.

  • A passport (Canadian or foreign)
  • Or a Canadian citizenship card with photo
  • Or a birth certificate plus health card together
Payment: $159.75 CAD (covers the knowledge test, your first G2 road test attempt, and your 5-year licence)

Ready for the real thing?

Ready to see how this looks on the real test format?

Try a free practice test

Step 3: Take the knowledge test

You'll take the test on a computer at the DriveTest centre. It's strictly multiple-choice, split into two sections:

Road signs

20 questions

Need 16/20 to pass

Rules of the road

20 questions

Need 16/20 to pass
Crucial rule: doing well on one section doesn't make up for failing the other. You need to hit that 80% mark in both sections independently.

You can retake the test if you don't pass, though you'll need to wait and may need to pay again.

Step 4: You're G1 licenced

Once you pass, you'll get your G1 licence right away. It's a learner's permit, so strict conditions apply every time you drive.

Mandatory G1 restrictions

Violating any of these conditions can result in a licence suspension, fines, and delayed progress to your G2.

  • The supervisor rule: A fully licenced driver (Class G, 4+ years experience, BAC under 0.05) must sit in the front passenger seat.
  • Zero alcohol/cannabis: You must maintain a 0.00% blood alcohol level and have zero cannabis in your system.
  • Highway ban: No driving on 400-series highways or specific high-speed routes (like the QEW, Gardiner Expressway, or Don Valley Parkway) — unless your supervisor is a licensed driving instructor.
  • Curfew: No driving between midnight and 5 a.m.

From here, you're on the clock: 12 months minimum before your G2 road test (8 months if you complete an approved driver's education course).

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