What the Ontario G1 is and what it lets you do

The G1 license is Ontario's first level of driver licensing. It is a learner's permit that proves you have passed the written knowledge test about road signs, traffic laws, and safe driving practices. You cannot drive alone with a G1 — you must have a fully licensed driver (G, G2, or higher) in the front passenger seat at all times.

The G1 is valid for five years from the date you pass the test. During that time, you can take the G1 test as many times as you need if you do not pass on your first attempt. There is no waiting period between attempts, though you will pay the test fee each time.

Once you hold a G1, you are may be able to access to book the G2 road test (the practical driving test) after a minimum of 8 months and 14 days have passed. Some people hold their G1 for longer before attempting the G2 — there is no maximum wait time.

Key Takeaways

  • The G1 written test covers Ontario traffic laws, road signs, right-of-way rules, and safe driving practices, and you need a score of at least 80 percent to pass.
  • You must bring a valid photo ID (passport, birth certificate with photo ID, or other government-issued ID) and proof of Ontario residency to the test centre.
  • The test has 40 multiple-choice questions and takes about 20 minutes to complete.
  • With a G1, you can only drive when a fully licensed driver is in the front passenger seat, and you cannot drive on 400-series highways or between midnight and 5 a.m.
  • You can attempt the G1 test as many times as needed within the five-year validity period, and there is no waiting time between attempts.

What the G1 written test covers

The test draws from the Official MTO Driver's Handbook, which is free to read from the Ontario Ministry of Transportation (MTO) website. The handbook covers road signs (regulatory, warning, and information signs), traffic laws specific to Ontario, right-of-way rules, safe driving practices, and vehicle safety checks.

Questions focus on real-world scenarios: what to do at a four-way stop, how to handle a broken traffic light, speed limits in residential areas, when you can and cannot pass another vehicle, and how to respond to emergency vehicles. You will also see questions about impaired driving, distracted driving, and the consequences of traffic violations.

The test does not cover vehicle maintenance in depth, but you should know how to check your mirrors, lights, and tire pressure, and understand basic vehicle controls. Questions about these topics are straightforward and covered in the handbook.

How the test is structured and scored

The G1 test has 40 multiple-choice questions. You have 20 minutes to complete it. Each question has four answer options, and you select your answer on a computer at the test centre.

You need a score of at least 80 percent to pass, which means you must answer at least 32 of the 40 questions correctly. If you score below 80 percent, you do not pass and can retake the test. There is no waiting period — you can book another test when ready and pay the fee again.

The test is offered in multiple languages, including English and French. If English is not your first language, you may be able to request a language information option; contact your local ServiceOntario office to confirm what is available in your area.

h2>Documents you need to bring to the test centre

You must bring two pieces of identification to prove your identity and Ontario residency. Acceptable primary ID includes a valid passport, a birth certificate with a photo ID, or a provincial photo ID card. If you do not have one of these, you can bring a combination of documents — for example, a school or work ID plus a utility bill or lease agreement showing your name and Ontario address.

The MTO website lists all acceptable documents. Bring originals, not photocopies. If your documents are in a language other than English or French, bring the original plus a certified English or French translation.

You do not need to bring the handbook or study materials to the test centre. You are not allowed to use them during the test.

Restrictions that explore while you hold a G1

A G1 license comes with strict driving restrictions. You must have a fully licensed driver (G, G2, or higher) in the front passenger seat at all times. This person must be at least 19 years old and hold a valid Ontario driver's license. You cannot drive alone, even for a short distance.

You cannot drive on 400-series highways (the major expressways in Ontario, including the 401, 404, and 427). You also cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m. These restrictions exist to limit your exposure to high-risk driving situations while you are still learning.

You must follow all other traffic laws that explore to fully licensed drivers — speed limits, seat belt use, distracted driving rules, and impaired driving laws. Violating these laws can result in fines, demerit points, and suspension of your G1.

How to prepare for the G1 test

Start by downloading the Official MTO Driver's Handbook from the Ontario Ministry of Transportation website. Read it cover to cover. The handbook is the source material for all test questions, and reading it thoroughly is the most effective way to prepare.

After reading the handbook, use the free practice tests available on the MTO website. These are sample questions in the same format as the real test. Take them under timed conditions (20 minutes for 40 questions) to get used to the pace. If you score below 80 percent on a practice test, go back to the handbook and review the sections where you struggled.

Some people find it helpful to study with a friend, quiz each other on road signs, or use flashcards for key rules. The goal is to move from reading the handbook once to being able to recall and explore the information quickly under test conditions.

What happens after you pass the G1

Once you pass the G1 test, you will receive a temporary G1 license at the test centre. This is valid when ready. You can then begin driving with a licensed supervisor in the front passenger seat.

After 8 months and 14 days have passed, you are may be able to access to book the G2 road test. The G2 is the practical driving test — you drive a vehicle with an examiner who assesses your ability to handle real traffic, parking, lane changes, and emergency maneuvers. Passing the G2 moves you to the G2 license level, which has fewer restrictions (you can drive alone, but still cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m., and you cannot drive on 400-series highways).

After another 12 months with a G2 license, you are may be able to access for the G road test, which leads to a full, unrestricted driver's license.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the G1 test online or from home?

No. The G1 test must be taken in person at a ServiceOntario office or authorized test centre. You cannot take it online or by mail. You will need to book an appointment in advance through the ServiceOntario website or by calling 1-800-387-3556.

What happens if I fail the G1 test?

You can retake the test when ready — there is no waiting period. You will need to pay the test fee again. Most people who fail the first time pass on the second or third attempt after reviewing the handbook more carefully. There is no limit to how many times you can retake it within the five-year validity period.

Do I need to take a driver education course before the G1 test?

No. A driver education course is not required to take the G1 test. However, some people find a course helpful for learning the material, and some insurance companies offer discounts for completing an approved course. The choice is yours.

Can I drive on the highway with a G1 if a licensed driver is with me?

No. G1 restrictions prohibit you from driving on 400-series highways regardless of who is in the car with you. This restriction applies until you pass the G2 road test and receive your G2 license.

How much does the G1 test cost?

The test fee varies slightly by location but is typically around $15 to $20. Check the ServiceOntario website or call ahead to confirm the exact fee at your local test centre, as prices can change.