Ontario does not offer the written knowledge test online

The Ontario written knowledge test — called the G1 test — is only available in person at a ServiceOntario office or an authorized testing provider. You cannot take it from home or on your computer. You must show up with valid identification, and you take the test on a computer at the testing location.

If you have searched for an online option, you may have found third-party websites offering practice tests or study materials. Those are not the real test. They are study tools only. The actual G1 test is administered and scored by ServiceOntario or by private testing centres that ServiceOntario has authorized.

The test itself is multiple choice and covers Ontario's traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You need to score at least 80 percent to pass. The test takes about 40 minutes.

Key Takeaways

  • The G1 written test must be taken in person at a ServiceOntario office or an authorized private testing centre — there is no online version.
  • You will take the test on a computer at the testing location, but you cannot do it remotely from home.
  • You need a valid photo ID and your birth certificate or passport to take the test.
  • Practice tests and study guides are available online, but the real test is only administered at authorized locations.
  • You must score at least 80 percent to pass the G1 test.

Where to take the test in Ontario

ServiceOntario offices across the province administer the G1 test. You can find the nearest office and book a test appointment on the ServiceOntario website. Most offices have multiple test times available each week, though wait times vary by location and season.

Private testing centres also offer the G1 test and are authorized by ServiceOntario. These centres are often faster to book and may have more flexible hours than government offices. You will pay a higher fee at a private centre than at ServiceOntario, but the test content and passing score are identical.

Before you go to any location, bring your valid photo ID (driver's license, passport, or Ontario photo card) and your birth certificate or passport. You will also need to bring the test fee — ServiceOntario charges a set amount, and private centres charge more.

How to prepare for the G1 test without going online

The official study material is the Ontario Driver's Handbook, which is free and available in print at ServiceOntario offices or as a PDF read on the ServiceOntario website. This handbook covers everything the test asks about: road signs, right-of-way rules, safe following distances, and what to do at intersections and in bad weather.

Many people study the handbook on their own. Others use printed study guides or flashcards sold at bookstores. Some take in-person driver education courses, which include classroom instruction on the same material. A course is not required to take the test, but it can help you understand the rules more deeply.

Online practice tests are available from various websites and apps. These are not the official test, but they follow the same format and cover the same topics. Using them to practice can help you get used to the multiple-choice format and identify which topics you need to study more.

What happens on test day

Arrive 15 minutes early with your ID and birth certificate or passport. You will check in at the front desk, pay the test fee if you have not already, and then be taken to a computer terminal. The test is 40 questions, all multiple choice. You have about 40 minutes to complete it.

The test covers road signs, traffic laws, right-of-way, safe driving in different weather and road conditions, and what to do in emergencies. Questions are based on the Ontario Driver's Handbook. You cannot use notes, a phone, or any other materials during the test.

As soon as you finish, the computer scores your test. If you score 80 percent or higher, you pass when ready and receive a receipt. If you score below 80 percent, you fail and can book another test appointment. There is no limit to how many times you can retake it, but you will pay the fee each time.

What to do after you pass the G1 test

Once you pass, you receive a G1 license. This is a learner's permit that lets you drive with a fully licensed driver in the car. The G1 is valid for five years. During this time, you must follow G1 restrictions: you cannot drive alone, you cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m., and you cannot use a handheld phone while driving.

Your next step is to take the G2 road test, which is a practical driving test with an examiner. You can take the G2 test after you have held your G1 for at least 8 months (or 4 months if you completed an approved driver education course). The G2 test is taken in a car on real roads, not online.

After you pass the G2 test, you get a G2 license and can drive alone. You will still have some restrictions, such as a lower blood alcohol limit. To get a full G license with no restrictions, you must hold your G2 for at least 12 months and then pass a final road test or meet other requirements set by ServiceOntario.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the G1 test on my phone or computer at home?

No. The official G1 test is only given in person at a ServiceOntario office or an authorized private testing centre. You must be present with a valid photo ID. Online practice tests exist, but they are not the real test and will not count toward your license.

What if I fail the G1 test?

You can retake it as many times as you need. There is no waiting period between attempts, but you will pay the test fee each time. Most people who fail study the Ontario Driver's Handbook again and focus on the topics they found hardest, then book another test appointment.

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

No. A course is optional. You can study the Ontario Driver's Handbook on your own and take the test whenever you feel ready. A course can help you understand the material better and may reduce the waiting period before you can take the G2 road test.

How much does the G1 test cost?

ServiceOntario charges a set fee for the G1 test. Private testing centres charge more. The exact amount varies, so check the ServiceOntario website or call a private centre near you for current pricing.

What if I lose my G1 license after I pass the test?

You can get a replacement at any ServiceOntario office. Bring your photo ID and proof of your address. There is a fee for a replacement license. Your G1 remains valid for five years from the date you first received it, even if you get a replacement card.