What you need to get an Ontario learner's permit

An Ontario learner's permit (also called a Class G1 licence) is your legal permission to learn to drive on Ontario roads with a supervising driver. You must hold a G1 before you can take the road test for a full Class G licence. To get one, you need to be at least 16 years old, pass a written knowledge test at a ServiceOntario office, and provide proof of identity and residency.

The written test covers Ontario traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You get 40 questions, and you must answer at least 32 correctly to pass. The test is offered in multiple languages. Once you pass, your G1 permit is valid for five years from the date you receive it.

Key Takeaways

  • You must be at least 16 years old and pass a written knowledge test at a ServiceOntario office to receive a G1 learner's permit.
  • Bring one primary piece of ID (such as a birth certificate or passport) and one piece of proof of residency (such as a utility bill or lease) to your test appointment.
  • The written test has 40 questions and you need 32 correct answers to pass; it covers traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving rules.
  • Your G1 permit is valid for five years, and you must have a fully licensed driver supervising you whenever you drive.
  • The fee for a G1 licence is set by ServiceOntario and varies slightly by location; check the ServiceOntario website for the current amount in your area.

Documents you must bring to your test appointment

ServiceOntario requires one primary piece of identification and one piece of proof of residency. Primary ID includes a birth certificate, Canadian passport, permanent resident card, or citizenship certificate. If you do not have a primary ID, you can bring two secondary pieces of ID instead, such as a school ID and a health card.

Proof of residency must show your current Ontario address and be dated within the last 62 days. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, property tax assessment, or a letter from a landlord or employer on official letterhead. A bank or credit card statement also works if it shows your name and address.

Bring the original documents or certified copies — photocopies alone are not accepted. If your name has changed due to marriage or other legal reasons, bring a document that shows the name change, such as a marriage certificate or court order.

How to book your test appointment

You book your G1 test through the ServiceOntario website or by calling 1-800-387-3556. Online booking is faster and lets you choose a specific date and time at a ServiceOntario office near you. You can also walk into a ServiceOntario office without an appointment, but wait times vary and may be long during peak hours.

When you book online, you will need to provide your name, date of birth, and contact information. You will also choose your preferred language for the test. The system will show you available appointment slots at nearby offices. Book as soon as you are ready, because some offices fill up weeks in advance, especially in larger cities.

What to expect on test day

Arrive at your ServiceOntario office at least 15 minutes before your appointment. Bring all required documents and a pen. The test itself takes about 20 to 30 minutes. You will sit at a computer or paper test station and answer 40 multiple-choice questions about Ontario traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices.

You can take the test in English, French, or several other languages. If you do not pass on your first attempt, you can retake the test. Most offices allow you to book another appointment the same day or within a few days. There is a fee each time you take the test.

If you pass, you will receive your G1 licence on the spot or within a few days, depending on the office. Your G1 is valid for five years. You cannot drive alone — a fully licensed driver aged 19 or older must supervise you at all times while you hold a G1.

Restrictions that explore while you hold a G1

A G1 licence comes with strict rules. You must have a supervising driver in the front passenger seat at all times. That driver must hold a valid Class G, G2, or higher licence and must be at least 19 years old. You cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m., and you cannot drive on 400-series highways (such as the 401 or 407).

You also cannot use a hand-held cell phone or other electronic device while driving, even at a red light. This rule applies to all Ontario drivers, but it is especially important to follow as a new driver. Violations can result in fines and demerit points.

These restrictions stay in place for the entire time you hold your G1. Once you pass your road test and receive a G2 licence, some restrictions lift — for example, you can drive alone and at night — but other rules remain until you pass the G2 road test and receive your full Class G licence.

Moving to Ontario or renewing an out-of-province licence

If you already hold a valid learner's permit or licence from another province or country, you may not need to take the G1 written test. Ontario recognizes some out-of-province licences and permits. Contact ServiceOntario or visit a local office to find out whether your current licence can be converted to an Ontario G1, G2, or full G licence.

If your out-of-province licence cannot be converted, you will need to start from the beginning and obtain a G1. The same age requirement (16 years old) and written test explore. Bring your out-of-province licence along with your proof of identity and residency when you visit ServiceOntario.

Common mistakes to avoid

Do not assume you can drive with a learner's permit from another province in Ontario without converting it. Ontario does not automatically recognize all out-of-province permits, and driving with an invalid permit can result in fines and demerit points. Check with ServiceOntario before you drive.

Do not bring photocopies of your documents. ServiceOntario requires original documents or certified copies. Bringing only photocopies will delay your appointment or result in being turned away. Also, do not forget your supervising driver's licence number — you may need it to register your G1 or book your next test.

Do not wait until the last day of your G1 validity to book your G2 road test. Road test appointments fill up quickly, especially in busy areas, and you may not find an available slot before your G1 expires. Book your test at least a few weeks in advance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a G1 permit if I am under 16 years old?

No. Ontario law requires you to be at least 16 years old to hold a learner's permit. You cannot take the written test or receive a G1 licence before that age, even if you have parental consent.

What happens if I fail the written test?

You can retake the test. Most ServiceOntario offices allow you to book another appointment the same day or within a few days. You will pay the test fee again each time you take it. There is no limit to how many times you can retake the test.

Can I drive alone with a G1 permit?

No. A fully licensed driver aged 19 or older must be in the front passenger seat with you at all times. Driving alone with a G1 is illegal and can result in fines and demerit points.

How long is a G1 permit valid?

Your G1 licence is valid for five years from the date you receive it. If you do not pass your G2 road test before your G1 expires, you will need to retake the written test and obtain a new G1 before you can continue learning to drive.

Do I need to renew my G1 if I move to a different part of Ontario?

No. Your G1 is valid across all of Ontario. You do not need to renew it or retest if you move. However, if you move out of Ontario, you will need to follow that province's or country's rules for converting your licence.