What Are the Restrictions on a G2 Licence in Ontario?
G2 drivers must maintain a zero blood alcohol level (0.00 BAC), ensure all passengers wear seatbelts, and avoid handheld electronic devices. Drivers age 19 or under also face passenger limits between midnight and 5 AM. These restrictions remain until you pass the full G road test.
Key Facts
- Zero blood alcohol level (0.00 BAC) at all times
- Zero cannabis impairment while driving
- All passengers must wear a seatbelt
- No handheld electronic devices while driving
- Passenger limits apply for drivers age 19 or under between midnight and 5 AM
In this article
What Are the G2 Restrictions at a Glance?
Under Ontario's graduated licensing system, your G2 licence gives you significantly more freedom than a G1, but several restrictions still apply until you earn your full G licence.
- Zero blood alcohol level (0.00 BAC) at all times
- Zero cannabis impairment while driving
- All passengers must wear a seatbelt
- No handheld electronic devices while driving
- Passenger limits apply for drivers age 19 or under between midnight and 5 AM
| Restriction | G1 | G2 | Full G |
|---|---|---|---|
| Drive alone | No | Yes | Yes |
| Highway driving | No (some exceptions) | Yes | Yes |
| Blood alcohol | Zero | Zero | 0.08 BAC (zero if age 21 or under) |
| Passengers | 1 front seat only | No limit (with exceptions) | No limit |
| Night driving | Not midnight-5 AM | Allowed | Allowed |
| Supervising driver | Required (4+ years, G licence) | Not required | Not required |
How Strict Is the Zero Blood Alcohol Rule?
Under Ontario's Highway Traffic Act, fully licensed G drivers face a 0.08 BAC legal limit and warnings starting at 0.05. G2 drivers must have exactly 0.00. Any detectable alcohol while you hold a G2 results in an immediate 24-hour licence suspension at the roadside, regardless of how little you drank. This rule applies until you upgrade to a full G licence.
What Is the Midnight Passenger Restriction?
According to the Ontario Ministry of Transportation, if you are age 19 or under and hold a G2, you face a tiered passenger restriction between midnight and 5 AM. In the first 6 months after getting your G2, you may carry only one passenger aged 19 or younger. After 6 months, you may carry up to three passengers aged 19 or younger. These limits do not apply if a fully licensed driver (full G, 25 years or older) is in the front passenger seat.
What Is the Handheld Device Ban?
Using a handheld phone, GPS, or any electronic device while driving is prohibited for all Ontario drivers, including G2 holders. For G2 and G1 drivers, a distracted driving conviction carries extra weight: you will also receive a licence suspension. Hands-free operation through a mounted device or Bluetooth is permitted.
When Are G2 Restrictions Lifted?
All G2 restrictions are removed once you pass the full G road test. You must wait at least 12 months after receiving your G2 before taking the G road test. After that, you are subject only to the standard rules that apply to all Ontario drivers.
Related Questions
Can 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 answerWhat Is Ontario's Zero Tolerance Law for New Drivers?
Ontario's zero tolerance law requires G1 and G2 drivers to have a blood alcohol level of exactly 0.00 when driving. Any detectable alcohol results in an immediate 24-hour roadside licence suspension and additional penalties. This is stricter than the 0.08 limit that applies to fully licensed drivers.
Read answerHow to Pass the G Road Test in Ontario
The G road test in Ontario includes mandatory highway driving: merging onto a 400-series highway, lane changes at speed, and exiting. You also need to demonstrate advanced manoeuvres and confident handling of complex traffic. The test is approximately 30 minutes.
Read answerCan International Students Drive in Ontario?
Yes, international students can drive in Ontario using a valid driver's licence from their home country for up to 60 days after becoming an Ontario resident. After 60 days, they must obtain an Ontario licence. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended but not legally required if the licence is in English or French.
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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