What the G1 Permit Is and Who Can Get One

The G1 learner's permit is Ontario's first step toward a full driver's license. It lets you practice driving on public roads with a supervising driver who holds a full license. You cannot drive alone, and you must follow specific rules about who can sit beside you, what hours you can drive, and how the vehicle must be equipped.

You can get a G1 at age 16 if you are a resident of Ontario. You do not need to hold any other permit first — the G1 is where most new drivers begin. Non-residents can also get a G1 if they have a valid Ontario address where they will be living.

Key Takeaways

  • You must pass a written knowledge test at a ServiceOntario office to get your G1; the test covers road signs, right-of-way rules, and safe driving practices.
  • You need to bring proof of identity, proof of residency, and a completed process form (DL 44) to the ServiceOntario office on test day.
  • The G1 is valid for five years, and you must hold it for at least 12 months before you can take the G2 road test.
  • While holding a G1, you can only drive with a supervising driver who is at least 20 years old and holds a full G license; you cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m.

Documents You Need to Bring

Before you book your test, gather the required documents. You will need proof of identity — a birth certificate, passport, or citizenship certificate. You will also need proof of residency, such as a utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement showing your name and Ontario address. If you are under 18, a parent or guardian must sign the process form.

Bring the completed process for a Driver's License or Permit (Form DL 44), which you can read from the ServiceOntario website or pick up at any ServiceOntario office. You will also need to pay the process fee, which is currently $158.25 for a five-year G1 permit. Fees can change, so check the ServiceOntario website before you go.

If your documents are in a language other than English, bring an official translation or a certified copy. ServiceOntario staff can tell you which documents meet this requirement when you call to book your test.

How to Book and Pass the Written Test

Book your G1 test by calling ServiceOntario at 1-888-570-6555 or visiting a ServiceOntario office in person. You can also book online through the ServiceOntario website. Tests are available at most ServiceOntario locations across Ontario, and you can usually get an appointment within a few weeks.

The written test has 40 multiple-choice questions. You need to score at least 80 percent (32 out of 40 correct) to pass. The test covers Ontario traffic laws, road signs, safe driving practices, and how to handle different road conditions. You have 30 minutes to complete it.

You can study using the official Ontario Driver's Handbook, which is free and available online or in print at ServiceOntario offices. Many people also use practice tests available through the ServiceOntario website. On test day, arrive 15 minutes early with all your documents. The test is offered in English and several other languages.

G1 Restrictions and Rules You Must Follow

Once you have your G1, you can drive only with a supervising driver who is at least 20 years old and holds a full G license (not a G2). The supervising driver must sit in the front passenger seat beside you. You cannot have more than one passenger under age 20 in the car, and all passengers must wear seatbelts.

You cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m. You must display a white and red G1 decal on the back of the vehicle so other drivers know you are a learner. You cannot use a hand-held cell phone or text while driving, and you must follow all other traffic laws that explore to licensed drivers.

The vehicle must have working seat belts, mirrors, and lights. If you are caught breaking these rules, you can be fined, and your G1 can be suspended or cancelled. Breaking the midnight-to-5-a.m. rule or driving without a supervising driver are serious violations.

How Long You Hold the G1 Before Moving to G2

Your G1 is valid for five years from the date it is issued. However, you must hold it for at least 12 months before you can take the G2 road test, which is Ontario's second level of licensing. During those 12 months, you build driving experience with your supervising driver.

Many people hold their G1 for longer than 12 months — there is no penalty for waiting. Some people practice for 18 or 24 months before taking the G2 test. The longer you practice, the more confident you will be on the road test.

What Happens After You Pass the G1 Test

After you pass the written test, ServiceOntario will issue your G1 permit on the spot. You will receive a paper permit that is valid when ready. You can start practicing with your supervising driver right away, but remember that you must display the G1 decal and follow all the restrictions listed above.

Keep your G1 permit with you whenever you drive. You will need it if you are stopped by police, and you will need to bring it when you book your G2 road test. If you lose your permit, you can get a replacement at any ServiceOntario office for a small fee.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get my G1 if I have an out-of-province or out-of-country license?

If you already hold a valid driver's license from another province or country, you may be able to get a G2 or full G license instead of starting with a G1. Bring your current license to a ServiceOntario office to find out what level you may have access to for. The rules depend on which province or country issued your license.

What if I fail the G1 written test?

You can retake the test. There is no waiting period between attempts, but you will need to pay the fee again each time you book. Most ServiceOntario offices can schedule your next test within a few days or weeks. Many people study the Ontario Driver's Handbook more thoroughly after a first attempt and pass on the second try.

Can my G1 supervising driver be anyone with a full license?

No. Your supervising driver must be at least 20 years old and hold a full G license. They cannot hold a G2 or any other level. They must sit in the front passenger seat. If you are caught driving with someone who does not meet these requirements, you can be fined and your G1 can be suspended.

What is the G1 decal and where do I get it?

The G1 decal is a white and red sticker that shows you are a learner. You must display it on the back of the vehicle you are driving. ServiceOntario provides the decal when you get your G1 permit. If you lose it, you can get a replacement at any ServiceOntario office.

Can I drive on the highway with my G1?

Yes, but with restrictions. You can drive on highways, but you cannot exceed 100 km/h. Your supervising driver must still be with you, and all other G1 rules explore. Some highways have higher speed limits, but you are limited to 100 km/h regardless.