You do not need a G1 licence to enrol in and begin the classroom portion of a BDE course in Ontario. However, you must have a valid G1 before participating in any in-car driving lessons. Most driving schools allow you to start the 20-hour classroom segment first and obtain your G1 before the in-car sessions begin.
Key Facts
- Get your G1 before the in-car lessons start
- Classroom sessions can overlap with your G1 preparation
- Some schools offer a package: classroom first, in-car after G1
- Confirm the school's specific scheduling policy before enrolling
In this article
BDE Classroom vs. In-Car Requirements
A Ministry-approved BDE course has two components: a minimum of 20 hours of classroom instruction and a minimum of 10 hours of in-car driving lessons. The MTO requires you to hold a valid G1 licence before you can participate in the in-car driving component. The classroom sessions, however, can be completed before you have your G1.
The Practical Strategy: Get Your G1 First
While technically possible to start classroom sessions before getting your G1, most driving schools and students find it more efficient to get the G1 first. This is because in-car lessons are typically scheduled alongside classroom sessions, and having your G1 on hand ensures you can participate in all components without delays or rescheduling.
- Get your G1 before the in-car lessons start
- Classroom sessions can overlap with your G1 preparation
- Some schools offer a package: classroom first, in-car after G1
- Confirm the school's specific scheduling policy before enrolling
How BDE Reduces Your G2 Wait Time
Completing a full BDE course (both classroom and in-car components) qualifies you to take the G2 road test after only 8 months on your G1, instead of the standard 12-month wait. The BDE completion certificate must be presented to DriveTest when booking your G2 road test to receive the reduced wait period.
Age Requirement for BDE
To enrol in a BDE course in Ontario, you must be at least 16 years old. You do not need to have your G1 at the time of enrolment for the classroom portion, but you must be 16. Since the G1 test also requires you to be 16, most students get both done at a similar time.
Related Questions
What Is the BDE Program in Ontario?
The BDE (Beginner Driver Education) program is an MTO-approved driving course that combines 20 hours of classroom instruction with 10 hours of in-car training. Completing BDE reduces the waiting period to get your G2 licence from 12 months to 8 months after passing your G1 test.
Read answerDoes Your BDE Certificate Expire in Ontario?
No, a BDE (Beginner Driver Education) certificate does not expire in Ontario. Once you complete an MTO-approved BDE course, the certification is permanent. However, you must use it before your G1 licence expires to get the insurance discount and reduced wait time.
Read answerHow to Get Your G2 Licence in Ontario
To get your G2 licence in Ontario, you must hold a G1 for at least 12 months (8 months with a BDE course), then pass a G2 road test at a DriveTest centre. The road test costs approximately $53.75 and evaluates your ability to drive safely in everyday traffic conditions.
Read answerHow Old Do You Have to Be to Drive in Ontario?
You must be at least 16 years old to begin driving in Ontario. At 16, you can take the G1 written knowledge test at a DriveTest centre to receive your learner's permit. If you are under 18, you need a parent or legal guardian's signed consent.
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.
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