Generally, G2 drivers in Ontario can tow a trailer, but only if the combined weight does not require a different licence class. A standard G2 licence allows you to drive vehicles up to a gross weight of 11,000 kg. If the towing combination exceeds that threshold or involves certain commercial trailers, a higher class licence is required.
Key Facts
- Combination exceeding 11,000 kg gross: requires Class A
- Towing a bus trailer: requires Class B or C
- Commercial transport trucks: Class A or D required
- Personal camper trailers, boat trailers, utility trailers: typically fine under G2
In this article
What a G2 Licence Permits for Towing
A G2 licence is a Class G licence in Ontario's system, which authorizes the driver to operate any car, van, small truck, or motor home up to 11,000 kg gross weight. This includes towing a trailer, provided that the total combined weight of the towing vehicle and trailer does not exceed 11,000 kg. Most personal trailers (camping trailers, utility trailers, small boat trailers) fall well under this limit.
When a Higher Licence Class Is Needed
If the combined weight of the vehicle and trailer exceeds 11,000 kg, or if the trailer is a certain type of commercial trailer, a higher licence class (such as Class A or D) is required. G2 drivers do not hold those classes. This restriction applies equally to G drivers as well; the issue is licence class, not novice vs. full status.
- Combination exceeding 11,000 kg gross: requires Class A
- Towing a bus trailer: requires Class B or C
- Commercial transport trucks: Class A or D required
- Personal camper trailers, boat trailers, utility trailers: typically fine under G2
G2 Restrictions Still Apply While Towing
Even if the towing is legally permitted under a G2 licence, all standard G2 restrictions still apply. The driver must maintain 0.00 BAC (if under 21 or novice), observe all time-of-day rules that no longer apply to G2 (G2 can drive at any time), and follow all provincial towing safety rules such as trailer lights, safety chains, and load securement.
Practical Safety Advice for G2 Towing
Even when towing is legally permitted, it requires significantly different driving skills than operating a solo vehicle. Braking distances increase, turning requires wider arcs, and reversing is much more complex. G2 drivers who are new to towing should practice in low-traffic areas and consider a lesson with a qualified driving instructor before towing on public roads.
Related Questions
What Are the Restrictions on a G2 Licence in Ontario?
G2 drivers must maintain a zero blood alcohol level (0.00 BAC), ensure all passengers wear seatbelts, and avoid handheld electronic devices. Drivers age 19 or under also face passenger limits between midnight and 5 AM. These restrictions remain until you pass the full G road test.
Read answerWhat Is a Novice Driver in Ontario?
A novice driver in Ontario is anyone holding a G1 or G2 licence. Ontario's graduated licensing system classifies new drivers as novices during the G1 and G2 stages, during which stricter rules apply, including lower demerit point thresholds and a zero blood alcohol requirement regardless of age.
Read answerCan a G1 Driver Drive on a 400-Series Highway in Ontario?
No. G1 licence holders are prohibited from driving on 400-series highways and other high-speed expressways in Ontario. G1 drivers may only drive on roads where the speed limit is 80 km/h or less, and they must always be accompanied by a fully licensed driver.
Read answerHow Many Questions Are on the G1 Test in Ontario?
The G1 knowledge test in Ontario has 40 multiple-choice questions: 20 on road rules and 20 on road signs. You need to answer at least 16 correctly in each section (80%) to pass. The test is taken at a DriveTest centre and costs $16.25.
Read answerCan You Drive Alone with a G2 Licence in Ontario?
Yes, you can drive alone with a G2 licence in Ontario. A G2 allows you to drive without a supervising driver, at any time of day, on most roads including 400-series highways. Restrictions still apply on blood alcohol content and, in the first 6 months, on late-night passengers under 19.
Read answerFrom Our Blog
BDE Program Guide: What You Need to Know
Everything you need to know about Ontario's Beginner Driver Education program. Learn what BDE includes, how much it costs, and whether it is worth the investment.
Read articleOntario Driver's Handbook 2026: Complete G1 Study Guide
The full 2026 guide to the Ontario Driver's Handbook and the G1 knowledge test. What is in each chapter, what the test actually asks, how to study efficiently, and what to expect on test day. Written by a 25+ year MTO-certified instructor.
Read articleBDE Program vs Individual Driving Lessons: The Full Cost and Value Breakdown
Is a BDE program worth the higher upfront cost, or are individual lessons a smarter choice? A full breakdown covering insurance savings, G1 wait time reduction, scenario-based guidance, and the real math behind both options.
Read articleReady to Start Driving?
Book a lesson with Nadi and join 5,000+ students who passed with SafePass.