A G1 licence is valid for 5 years from the date it is issued. You must pass the G2 road test before your G1 expires. If it expires, you must restart the entire process, including retaking the written knowledge test.
Key Facts
- You must retake the G1 written knowledge test
- You pay all test fees again
- The waiting period restarts (8 or 12 months)
- Your BDE certificate is still valid if you have one
In this article
How Long Is the G1 Licence Valid?
Under Ontario's graduated licensing system, when you pass the G1 written knowledge test at a DriveTest centre, your G1 licence is issued with a 5-year expiry date. This gives you a 5-year window to practice driving and pass the G2 road test. The expiry date is printed on your G1 licence card.
What Happens If Your G1 Expires?
According to DriveTest Ontario, if your G1 licence expires before you pass the G2 road test, you must start over from scratch. This means retaking the written knowledge test, paying the fees again, and completing the full waiting period (8 months with BDE, 12 months without) before you can attempt the road test.
- You must retake the G1 written knowledge test
- You pay all test fees again
- The waiting period restarts (8 or 12 months)
- Your BDE certificate is still valid if you have one
How Should You Plan Your Timeline?
Most people should aim to take their G2 road test within 1-2 years of getting their G1. With BDE, you can book the road test after 8 months. Without BDE, the minimum is 12 months. Do not wait until the last year of your G1 to start preparing. Book lessons and practice regularly so you are test-ready well before your G1 expires.
Can You Renew a G1 Licence?
According to the Ontario Ministry of Transportation, G1 licences cannot be renewed or extended. Once expired, the only option is to start the process over. If your G1 is approaching its expiry date and you are not ready for the road test, prioritize getting professional lessons to accelerate your preparation.
Related Questions
Does 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 Many Times Can You Fail the G2 Test in Ontario?
There is no limit on how many times you can take the G2 road test in Ontario. You can rebook and retake the test as many times as needed, as long as your G1 licence has not expired. Each attempt requires a new booking and test fee.
Read answerHow Many Driving Lessons Do You Need to Pass?
Most students need 10 to 20 hours of professional driving lessons to pass the G2 road test, depending on their starting experience. Students in a BDE program get 10 in-car hours as part of the course. Additional individual lessons help build confidence for the test.
Read answerCan You Drive on the Highway with a G2 Licence?
Yes, you can drive on all Ontario highways with a G2 licence, including 400-series highways. There are no highway restrictions for G2 drivers. However, G1 drivers cannot drive on 400-series highways unless accompanied by a licensed driving instructor.
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.
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