How to Get Your G1 Licence in Ontario
To get your G1 licence, visit a DriveTest centre with valid ID and proof of Ontario residency, pay the combined licence and test fee, pass a vision test, and pass a 40-question written knowledge test. You need at least 80% on each of two sections: road rules and road signs.
Key Facts
- One piece of primary ID (passport, birth certificate, Canadian citizenship card)
- One piece of secondary ID with your name
- Proof of Ontario address (utility bill, bank statement, or lease agreement)
- Payment for the combined licence and knowledge test fee
- Corrective lenses if your vision requires them
In this article
What Is the G1 Licence?
Under Ontario's graduated licensing system, the G1 is the first stage. It is a learner's licence that allows you to practice driving under the supervision of a fully licensed driver. According to the Ontario Ministry of Transportation, you must hold a G1 for a minimum of 8 months (with BDE) or 12 months (without BDE) before you can take the G2 road test.
What Should You Bring to the DriveTest Centre?
Before you can write the G1 test, you need to verify your identity and Ontario residency at the DriveTest centre.
- One piece of primary ID (passport, birth certificate, Canadian citizenship card)
- One piece of secondary ID with your name
- Proof of Ontario address (utility bill, bank statement, or lease agreement)
- Payment for the combined licence and knowledge test fee
- Corrective lenses if your vision requires them
What Is on the Written Knowledge Test?
According to the Ontario Driver's Handbook, the G1 test has two sections: road rules (20 questions) and road signs (20 questions). You must score at least 16 out of 20 (80%) on each section to pass. The sections are scored independently, so you must pass both. Most questions come directly from the Official MTO Driver's Handbook, available free online and at DriveTest centres.
What Is the Vision Test?
Before the written test, a DriveTest staff member will do a brief vision check using a vision machine. It checks your visual acuity and peripheral vision. If you normally wear glasses or contacts to drive, wear them. If you fail the vision test, you cannot write the knowledge test until your vision is corrected.
What Happens After You Get Your G1?
Once you pass, your G1 licence is issued on the spot. You can start practicing immediately with a fully licensed supervising driver. Enroll in a BDE program to reduce your waiting period to 8 months and qualify for insurance discounts. Your G1 is valid for 5 years, giving you time to prepare for the G2 road test.
Related Questions
How Long Is Your G1 Licence Valid in Ontario?
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.
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 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 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 articleG1 Written Test Study Guide: Pass on Your First Try
A focused study guide for the Ontario G1 written test. Learn what topics are covered, how the test works, and the best way to prepare so you pass on your first attempt.
Read articleReady to Start Driving?
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