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.
Key Facts
- Warning signs (yellow diamond shapes and what they mean)
- Regulatory signs (speed limits, no-turn signs, stop vs. yield)
- Right-of-way rules at intersections and roundabouts
- Demerit point values for common offences
- Rules for school buses with flashing lights
In this article
What Makes the G1 Test Challenging
The G1 test has 40 questions: 20 on road rules and 20 on road signs. Most people find the road rules section manageable because the questions test logical rules you can reason through. The road signs section is harder because it requires pure memorization of shapes, colours, and symbols. Failing to study signs is the most common reason people fail.
Most Commonly Missed Topics
Based on common test patterns, certain topics appear frequently and are often answered incorrectly by unprepared test-takers.
- Warning signs (yellow diamond shapes and what they mean)
- Regulatory signs (speed limits, no-turn signs, stop vs. yield)
- Right-of-way rules at intersections and roundabouts
- Demerit point values for common offences
- Rules for school buses with flashing lights
- Distances for parking near hydrants and crosswalks
How Long Should You Study?
Most people need 3 to 7 days of focused study to be ready. Read the MTO Driver's Handbook cover to cover at least once, then reinforce with practice tests. The handbook is available free on the Ontario government website. Aim to score consistently above 90% on practice tests before booking your appointment.
- Day 1-2: Read the full MTO Driver's Handbook
- Day 3-4: Take multiple practice tests online
- Day 5-6: Focus on weak areas and sign recognition
- Day 7: Final review and light practice
What Happens If You Fail?
If you fail the G1 test, you must wait before rebooking and pay the fee again (approximately $159.75). There is no official waiting period between attempts, but you must pay again to rebook. Use the extra time to identify which section you failed and study it more thoroughly before your next attempt.
Related Questions
What Is the Pass Mark for the G1 Test in Ontario?
The G1 knowledge test in Ontario has 40 questions split into two sections of 20 questions each. You must score at least 16 out of 20 (80%) in each section to pass. Passing both sections in the same sitting is required; you cannot pass one section and return later for the other.
Read answerHow Do I Prepare for the G1 Test in Ontario?
Study the MTO Driver's Handbook thoroughly, then take practice tests online. Focus on both the road rules and road signs sections. Most people need 10 to 15 hours of study to pass on the first attempt.
Read answerHow 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 Happens If You Fail the G1 Test in Ontario?
If you fail the G1 knowledge test in Ontario, you must wait at least one day before retaking it. There is no limit on the number of attempts. Each retake requires paying the $16.25 test fee again.
Read answerCan You Get Your G1 Online in Ontario?
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.
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