A novice driver in Ontario is anyone holding a G1 or G2 licence. Ontario's graduated licensing system classifies new drivers as novices during the G1 and G2 stages, during which stricter rules apply, including lower demerit point thresholds and a zero blood alcohol requirement regardless of age.
Key Facts
- Zero blood alcohol concentration required (0.00 BAC)
- Zero tolerance for cannabis and drug impairment
- Lower demerit point suspension threshold: warning at 6 points, suspension at 9 points (vs. 9 and 15 for full G drivers)
- G1 drivers: additional restrictions on time of day and road type
In this article
Who Is Classified as a Novice Driver
Under Ontario's graduated licensing system, any driver holding a G1 or G2 licence is classified as a novice driver. This classification applies regardless of age. A 30-year-old who just got their G1 is a novice driver just as a 16-year-old would be. The novice classification ends when you pass the G road test and receive a full G licence.
Special Rules That Apply to Novice Drivers
Novice drivers in Ontario face a different set of legal standards than fully licensed drivers, designed to protect inexperienced drivers during the learning period.
- Zero blood alcohol concentration required (0.00 BAC)
- Zero tolerance for cannabis and drug impairment
- Lower demerit point suspension threshold: warning at 6 points, suspension at 9 points (vs. 9 and 15 for full G drivers)
- G1 drivers: additional restrictions on time of day and road type
Demerit Points for Novice Drivers
One of the most significant differences for novice drivers is the demerit point system. A driver with a full G licence receives a written warning at 9 demerit points and faces suspension at 15. A novice driver receives a warning at 6 demerit points and faces a suspension hearing at 9. This means novice drivers need to be especially careful about minor infractions that accumulate points quickly.
When You Stop Being a Novice Driver
You exit novice status the moment you pass the G road test and your licence is upgraded to a full G. At that point, the lower demerit thresholds no longer apply, the nighttime restriction is lifted, and the BAC rule shifts to the standard 0.08 legal limit (though 0.05 may still trigger administrative penalties for all drivers). Once you obtain a full G licence and are 21 or older, the zero-tolerance BAC rule no longer applies. You are then subject to the standard 0.05 warn-range and 0.08 criminal thresholds that apply to all fully licensed adult drivers.
Related Questions
What Is Graduated Licensing in Ontario?
Ontario's graduated licensing system (GLS) introduces new drivers in stages: G1 (written test, supervised driving with restrictions), G2 (first road test, most restrictions lifted), and full G (final road test, full driving privileges). Each stage has mandatory waiting periods and specific rules.
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 answerWhat Are the Supervision Requirements for Novice Drivers in Ontario?
G1 drivers in Ontario must be accompanied by a fully licensed driver (G licence held for 4 or more years) who sits in the front passenger seat at all times. G2 drivers do not require a supervisor and can drive alone. For G1 drivers, the supervisor must also have a legal BAC and not be impaired.
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 a Driver's Licence With a Criminal Record in Ontario?
Having a criminal record does not automatically prevent you from getting an Ontario driver's licence. The MTO evaluates driving-related offences and licence history, not your criminal record in general. However, certain criminal convictions directly related to driving, such as impaired driving or dangerous driving causing death, can result in a suspension or permanent revocation.
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 articleOntario Driver's Handbook 2026: Complete G1 Study Guide
The full 2026 guide to the Ontario Driver's Handbook and the G1 knowledge test. What is in each chapter, what the test actually asks, how to study efficiently, and what to expect on test day. Written by a 25+ year MTO-certified instructor.
Read articleBDE Program vs Individual Driving Lessons: The Full Cost and Value Breakdown
Is a BDE program worth the higher upfront cost, or are individual lessons a smarter choice? A full breakdown covering insurance savings, G1 wait time reduction, scenario-based guidance, and the real math behind both options.
Read articleReady to Start Driving?
Book a lesson with Nadi and join 5,000+ students who passed with SafePass.