How the Toronto written test works

The Toronto written test is administered by ServiceOntario at testing centres across the Greater Toronto Area. You will sit at a computer terminal and answer 40 multiple-choice questions about Ontario traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You have 40 minutes to complete the test. You must score at least 80 percent (32 out of 40 correct answers) to pass.

The test is offered in English and French. You can request a reader or interpreter if you have a documented visual or hearing impairment, but you must arrange this when you book your test appointment, not on the day you arrive.

You will receive your result when ready after you finish. If you pass, you move forward to the road test. If you do not pass, you can retake the test, but you must wait at least one week before your next attempt.

Key Takeaways

  • The Toronto written test has 40 questions, takes 40 minutes, and requires a score of at least 32 correct answers to pass.
  • You take the test on a computer at a ServiceOntario testing centre, and results are given when ready.
  • The test covers Ontario traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving rules found in the official MTO handbook.
  • You must wait at least one week between attempts if you do not pass on your first try.
  • Accommodation requests for visual or hearing impairment must be made when you book, not on test day.

What the test questions cover

All 40 questions come from the Official MTO Handbook, published by the Ministry of Transportation Ontario. The handbook is free and available online at ontario.ca/drivershandbook. Questions test your knowledge of right-of-way rules, speed limits, parking regulations, hand signals, pedestrian safety, and how to read road signs.

You will see questions about situations you might encounter on the road — for example, what to do at a four-way stop, how to handle a yellow light, or what a diamond-shaped sign means. Some questions ask you to identify what a specific road sign represents. Others describe a driving scenario and ask you to choose the correct action.

The test does not include questions about vehicle maintenance, insurance, or registration. It focuses entirely on rules of the road and safe driving behaviour.

How to book your test in Toronto

You book your written test through ServiceOntario's online booking system at ontario.ca/serviceontario or by calling 1-800-387-3556. You will need your Ontario ID number (from your birth certificate or previous licence) and a valid email address. You choose your preferred testing centre location and date.

Testing centres in Toronto include locations in downtown Toronto, North York, Scarborough, Etobicoke, and East York. Appointment availability varies by location and time of year. You can book up to 30 days in advance. If you need to cancel or reschedule, you can do so online up to 48 hours before your appointment.

You will receive a confirmation email with your test date, time, location, and instructions on what to bring. Arrive at least 15 minutes early.

What documents to bring on test day

Bring two pieces of identification, at least one with a photo. Acceptable documents include a valid passport, birth certificate, provincial photo ID, or a previous Ontario driver's licence. You will also need to bring the confirmation email or printed confirmation from your booking.

Do not bring a phone, smartwatch, or any electronic device into the testing room. You will not be allowed to use a calculator, dictionary, or reference material. The testing centre provides a computer and keyboard; you do not bring your own equipment.

If you wear glasses or contact lenses for driving, wear them during the test. The test is designed to match the conditions under which you will drive.

How to prepare for the Toronto test

Read the Official MTO Handbook from start to finish at least once. Focus on the sections on road signs, right-of-way, speed limits, and parking. Many people find it helpful to read the handbook twice — once to learn the material, and once to review and fill in gaps.

Use the free practice tests available on the MTO website at ontario.ca/drivershandbook. These practice tests use real questions from past exams and show you the format and style of the actual test. Take the practice test under timed conditions — 40 minutes — to get used to the pace.

Study the road sign section carefully. Road sign questions make up a significant portion of the test, and many people miss them because they do not spend enough time learning what each sign means. Flashcards or a printed sign chart can help you memorize quickly.

Common mistakes on the Toronto written test

Many test-takers rush through questions and misread what is being asked. Read each question twice before you choose your answer. A question might ask "which of the following is NOT allowed" rather than "which is allowed" — missing that word costs you the point.

Another common error is guessing on road sign questions without studying them first. Road signs are specific and non-negotiable. If you do not know what a sign means, you will guess wrong. Spend time on the sign section before test day.

Some people arrive late or forget their identification. ServiceOntario will not let you test without proper ID, and arriving late may mean you lose your appointment slot. Plan to arrive 15 minutes early and bring both pieces of ID.

What happens after you pass the Toronto written test

Once you pass, you are may be able to access to book your road test with a DriveTest examiner. You do not have to book when ready — your written test pass is valid for five years. However, if you wait too long, you may need to retake the written test before you can take the road test.

To book your road test, you will need a valid Ontario photo ID, proof of residency, and a vehicle that meets safety standards. You can book online at ontario.ca/drivetest or by phone. Road test wait times in Toronto vary from a few weeks to several months depending on the season and location.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the Toronto written test in a language other than English or French?

No. ServiceOntario offers the test in English and French only. If English is not your first language, you may want to spend extra time studying the handbook to become familiar with the phrasing and vocabulary used in the test questions.

What happens if I fail the Toronto written test?

You can retake the test after waiting at least one week. There is no limit to how many times you can attempt the test. You pay the test fee each time you book. Many people pass on their second or third attempt after studying the handbook more thoroughly.

How long is my written test pass valid in Toronto?

Your written test pass is valid for five years from the date you pass. You must use it to book and complete your road test within that five-year window. If five years pass without you taking the road test, you will need to retake the written test.

Can I use a phone or calculator during the Toronto written test?

No. You cannot bring any electronic devices, including phones, smartwatches, or calculators, into the testing room. The test is computer-based, and the computer provides all the tools you need to answer the questions.

How much does the Toronto written test cost?

The fee varies and is set by ServiceOntario. Check ontario.ca/serviceontario or call 1-800-387-3556 for the current fee. You pay when you book your appointment online or by phone.