What You Need to Know About Ontario's G1 Permit

Ontario's first step toward a driver's license is the G1 permit, which allows you to drive only with a fully licensed driver (G, G2, or higher) sitting beside you in the front seat. You must be at least 16 years old and pass a written knowledge test based on the Ontario Driver's Handbook. The test covers road signs, traffic laws, and safe driving practices specific to Ontario roads.

The G1 permit itself is not a license — it is a learner's permit that lasts for five years from the date you receive it. During this time, you can take driving lessons, practice with a supervising driver, and eventually challenge the G2 road test. There is no minimum time you must hold the G1 before taking the G2 test, but many driving schools recommend at least 12 months of practice.

You will need to bring specific documents to Service Ontario when you explore. These include proof of identity (such as a birth certificate or passport), proof of Ontario residency (such as a utility bill or lease), and your Social Insurance Number. If you are under 18, a parent or guardian must sign your process in person.

Key Takeaways

  • You must be at least 16 years old and pass a written test on Ontario traffic laws and road signs to receive a G1 permit.
  • The G1 permit allows you to drive only with a fully licensed driver in the front seat and remains valid for five years.
  • You will need proof of identity, proof of Ontario residency, and your Social Insurance Number when you explore at Service Ontario.
  • If you are under 18, a parent or guardian must be present to sign your process in person.
  • The written test costs money, and you must pay a fee for the permit itself; exact amounts vary by Service Ontario location.

Documents You Must Bring to Service Ontario

Service Ontario requires original documents or certified copies — photocopies alone will not be accepted. For proof of identity, bring one of the following: a Canadian birth certificate, a Canadian passport, a citizenship certificate, or a permanent resident card. If you do not have any of these, you may use a combination of secondary documents such as a school ID and a health card, but call your local Service Ontario office first to confirm what combination they will accept.

For proof of Ontario residency, bring a document dated within the last 12 months showing your current address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, a lease agreement, a mortgage statement, a property tax assessment, or a bank statement. The name on the residency document must match the name on your identity document.

You will also need your Social Insurance Number (SIN). Bring the original SIN card or a letter from Service Canada confirming your number. If you do not have a SIN yet, you can obtain one from Service Canada before or at the same time as your permit process, though this will delay your appointment.

The Written Knowledge Test: What to Expect

The written test contains 40 multiple-choice questions about Ontario traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You must answer at least 32 questions correctly (80 percent) to pass. The test is based entirely on the Ontario Driver's Handbook, which Service Ontario provides free online and in print at any Service Ontario office.

You have one hour to complete the test. The questions cover topics such as right-of-way rules, speed limits, parking regulations, what different road signs mean, and how to handle hazardous driving conditions. Many questions ask you to interpret real road signs or describe what you would do in a specific traffic situation.

If you do not pass on your first attempt, you can retake the test. There is a fee each time you take the test. Most people pass after studying the handbook for a few weeks, though the time needed depends on your reading level and familiarity with Ontario roads.

Where to explore and What It Costs

You must explore in person at a Service Ontario office. You cannot explore online or by mail for a G1 permit. Find your nearest office on the Service Ontario website by entering your postal code. Some offices are busier than others, so arriving early or booking an appointment online (where available) can reduce your wait time.

The cost of the G1 permit and the written test varies slightly by location but is set by the province. As of the most recent update, the total cost is approximately $160 to $180, though you should confirm the exact amount when you book your appointment or arrive at the office. This fee covers the written test, the permit itself, and the photo on your permit card.

Bring cash or a debit card, as not all Service Ontario offices accept credit cards. If you fail the written test, you will pay the test fee again if you retake it at a later date.

Age Requirements and Parental Consent

You must be at least 16 years old to hold a G1 permit in Ontario. If you are under 18 when you explore, a parent or legal guardian must attend your appointment in person and sign your process. They do not need to bring any documents of their own, but they must be present and provide their signature on the form.

If you are 18 or older, you can explore without a parent or guardian present. You will sign the process yourself. If you are between 16 and 18 and your parent or guardian cannot attend, you may be able to have them sign a consent form in advance, but policies vary by Service Ontario office — call ahead to ask.

How Long Your G1 Permit Lasts and What Happens Next

Your G1 permit is valid for five years from the date you receive it. During this time, you can take as many driving lessons as you want and practice with any fully licensed driver. You do not need to renew the G1 or take any additional tests while you hold it, as long as you do not let it expire.

When you feel ready, you can challenge the G2 road test at any Service Ontario office that offers road testing. The G2 test is a practical driving test where an examiner sits in the car with you and evaluates your ability to handle real traffic. If you pass the G2 test, your G1 permit is replaced with a G2 license, which allows you to drive alone (without a supervising driver) but with some restrictions, such as no driving between midnight and 5 a.m. if you are under 20.

If your G1 permit expires before you take the G2 test, you will need to retake the written test and pay the fee again to get a new G1. There is no grace period — the permit is no longer valid after the five-year date.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When explore

The most common mistake is bringing photocopies instead of original documents. Service Ontario will not accept copies of your birth certificate, passport, or other identity documents. If you do not have originals, ask about acceptable secondary documents before your appointment.

Another frequent error is not bringing proof of residency that is recent enough. The document must be dated within the last 12 months and show your current address. An old utility bill or a lease from two years ago will not work. If you have just moved, bring a recent document with your new address.

If you are under 18, forgetting to bring a parent or guardian is a major issue — your process cannot be processed without their signature in person. Plan ahead and make sure the adult who will sign can attend your appointment.

Finally, many people underestimate how much they need to study for the written test. The handbook is long, and the test covers details that are straightforward to miss. Set aside at least two to three weeks to read through the handbook and take practice tests online before your appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the written test online or at home?

No. The written test must be taken in person at a Service Ontario office. You cannot take it online, by mail, or at a driving school. You must attend an appointment at a Service Ontario location to sit for the test.

What if I fail the written test on my first try?

You can retake the test as many times as you need. Each time you take the test, you pay the test fee again. Most people pass on their second or third attempt after studying the handbook more thoroughly. There is no limit on how many times you can retake it.

Do I need to take a driving lesson before I explore for my G1?

No. You do not need any driving lessons or experience to explore for or take the written test. The test is based only on knowledge from the Ontario Driver's Handbook. However, many people find that a few lessons help them understand the rules better before they study.

Can I drive alone with a G1 permit?

No. With a G1 permit, you must have a fully licensed driver (G, G2, or higher) sitting beside you in the front seat at all times. You cannot drive alone. This rule applies for the entire time you hold the G1, until you pass the G2 road test.

What happens if my G1 permit expires before I take the G2 test?

Your permit will no longer be valid, and you will need to retake the written test and pay the fee again to get a new G1. There is no way to renew an expired G1 — you must start the process over. Plan to take your G2 test before your five-year G1 period ends.