You cannot get your G1 licence fully online in Ontario. While you can book your G1 knowledge test appointment online through DriveTest, you must appear in person at a DriveTest centre to write the test and receive your licence. As of 2026, there is no fully remote or online G1 testing option.
Key Facts
- Vision screening (in person, same day as the written test)
- Identity verification with original government ID
- Seated written test on DriveTest computer terminals
- Photo taken for your licence card
- Licence issued on the spot after passing
In this article
What You Can Do Online
The DriveTest website (drivetest.ca) allows you to complete several steps of the G1 process from home. You can book your G1 test appointment, pay the test fee, check available centre locations and times, and study using the online practice test tool. These online features save time and help you prepare, but they are not a substitute for the in-person test.
What Must Be Done In Person
Writing the G1 knowledge test and receiving your licence must be done in person at a DriveTest centre. During the appointment, you also complete a vision screening test to ensure you meet the minimum eyesight standard for driving. You must bring valid identification and appear in person; there is no option to bypass this step.
- Vision screening (in person, same day as the written test)
- Identity verification with original government ID
- Seated written test on DriveTest computer terminals
- Photo taken for your licence card
- Licence issued on the spot after passing
Online G1 Practice Tests
While the official G1 cannot be taken online, Ontario offers free online practice tests through the official DriveTest website that closely mirror the actual exam. Third-party sites also offer practice tests. Completing many practice rounds online is one of the most effective ways to prepare for the in-person written test.
Can You Study the Handbook Online?
Yes. The MTO Driver's Handbook, which contains everything tested in the G1 knowledge exam, is available free online at ontario.ca/document/official-mto-drivers-handbook. You do not need to purchase a physical copy. Reading it online before your appointment is strongly recommended.
Related Questions
How to Book Your G1 Test in Ontario
You can book your G1 knowledge test online through the DriveTest website, by phone, or in person at any DriveTest centre in Ontario. The fee is approximately $159.75, which covers both the G1 licence and your first road test booking. Bring valid identification on test day.
Read answerWhat Documents Do You Need for the G1 Test in Ontario?
To take the G1 knowledge test in Ontario, you must bring government-issued identification that proves your legal name, date of birth, and signature. A passport plus one supporting piece of ID is the most reliable combination. Without acceptable ID, DriveTest will not allow you to write the test.
Read answerHow Hard Is the G1 Test in Ontario?
The G1 knowledge test is considered moderately difficult. The road rules section is straightforward if you have studied the MTO Driver's Handbook, but the road signs section catches many test-takers off guard. With focused preparation, most people pass on their first attempt.
Read answerCan a Permanent Resident Get an Ontario Driver's Licence?
Yes, permanent residents of Canada can get an Ontario driver's licence. Permanent residents are eligible to apply for a G1 licence, complete Ontario's graduated licensing program, and obtain a full G licence just like Canadian citizens. You must bring your Permanent Resident card and passport to the DriveTest centre.
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.
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