What Is the Difference Between the G2 and G Road Test?
The G2 test covers residential driving and basic manoeuvres at lower speeds. The G test adds mandatory highway driving, including merging, lane changes at highway speed, and exiting. The G test is approximately 30 minutes vs 20 minutes for the G2 and requires a 12-month wait after getting your G2.
Key Facts
- G2 test: approximately 20 minutes of driving
- G test: approximately 30 minutes of driving
- G2 test: residential streets, intersections, basic manoeuvres
- G test: everything in G2 plus mandatory 400-series highway section
- G2 required wait: 8 months after G1 (with BDE) or 12 months without
In this article
How Do the G2 and G Tests Compare?
The two tests build on each other. Understanding the differences helps you know what to focus on when preparing for each stage.
- G2 test: approximately 20 minutes of driving
- G test: approximately 30 minutes of driving
- G2 test: residential streets, intersections, basic manoeuvres
- G test: everything in G2 plus mandatory 400-series highway section
- G2 required wait: 8 months after G1 (with BDE) or 12 months without
- G test required wait: 12 months after receiving your G2
| Feature | G2 Road Test | G Road Test |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | About 20 minutes | About 30 minutes |
| Highway driving | No | Yes (required) |
| Test fee | $91.25 | $91.25 |
| Parallel parking | Yes | Yes |
| Three-point turn | Yes | Yes |
| Roadway driving | Residential and commercial | Residential, commercial, and highway |
| Licence after passing | G2 (some restrictions) | Full G (no restrictions) |
What Does the G2 Test Cover?
According to DriveTest Ontario, the G2 road test evaluates your ability to drive safely in residential and urban environments. The examiner tests your handling of intersections (controlled and uncontrolled), turns, lane changes, three-point turns, roadside stops or parallel parking, and general speed management. The test does not include highway driving.
What Does the G Test Add?
According to the Ontario Ministry of Transportation, the main addition in the G test is highway driving. You will be directed onto a 400-series highway and evaluated on your ability to merge from a ramp at speed, maintain appropriate lane positioning, change lanes with proper observation, and exit the highway smoothly. This is the section that most G test candidates find challenging.
How Long Is the Wait Between G2 and G?
Under Ontario's graduated licensing system, after receiving your G2 licence, you must wait at least 12 months before you are eligible to take the G road test. There is no BDE shortcut for this stage. Use this year to accumulate highway driving experience so you are well-prepared by the time you book your G test.
How Do You Prepare for the Step Up?
If you passed your G2 comfortably, the G test is achievable with focused highway practice. Spend the 12-month waiting period regularly driving on 400-series highways. Book a highway-focused lesson with an instructor to get feedback on your merging and lane change technique before your test.
Related Questions
How 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 answerWhat 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.
Read answerHow Long Does It Take to Get a Full G Licence in Ontario?
Getting a full G licence in Ontario takes a minimum of 20 months: at least 8 months from G1 to G2 (with BDE), then another 12 months from G2 to G. Without BDE, the minimum is 24 months. In practice, most people take 2 to 4 years to complete the full process.
Read answerWhat DriveTest Centre Is the Easiest in Ontario?
There is no officially designated easy DriveTest centre, but some centres have routes in less complex areas with fewer high-traffic intersections. Centres in smaller cities or suburban areas are often perceived as less stressful. The best choice depends on your comfort level, your instructor's recommendation, and where you have practiced.
Read answerWhat Happens If the Weather Is Bad on Your Road Test Day in Ontario?
If the weather is unsafe on your road test day in Ontario, the DriveTest examiner has the authority to postpone or cancel your test at no charge to you. You will be rescheduled without losing your fee. You cannot cancel on your own due to weather without following the standard 48-hour cancellation policy.
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