In Ontario, get your G1 by passing a written test at age 16. After 12 months, take the G2 road test. Hold your G2 for another year, then pass the G test to earn your full driver license.
In Canada, more than 100,000 to 170,000 new vehicles are sold each month. Year-over-year vehicle sales in the Great White North exceeded 1.5 million in November 2020. Of these, 313,475, or one in five, were passenger cars.
All in all, there are more than 35.7 million vehicles registered nationwide. Most of those are in none other than Ontario. In 2019 alone, the province processed over 12.8 million new registrations.
With so many vehicles, it's no wonder that there's a mandatory G Test in Ontario. After all, this exam gauges how much driving knowledge, skills, and experience you have. Passing it is the only way to obtain a full driver's license.
To that end, we've created this guide detailing everything you need to know about the G driving test. Read on to discover what it is, what exactly it tests for, and how to raise your odds of passing it.
Ontario's Graduated Driver's Licensing System: A Quick Background
Ontario issues 15 different license types, three of which fall under the "G" class. These include the G1, G2, and G licenses. You need to start with G1 before you can get to G2 and then pass the G2 test to obtain the G license.
Note that anyone who wishes to drive a car, van, or small truck in Ontario needs to apply for a G driver's license. This is the law under the graduated driver's licensing system (GDL) for new drivers. The GDL has been in place in Ontario since 1994.
One of the primary goals of the GDL is to reduce accidents that new drivers may cause. After all, studies have proven age and experience to be factors in road accidents in Canada. This is especially true for younger drivers who lack both age and experience.
The GDL system helps new drivers (be they young or old) gain essential driving experience. Its restrictions provide those without driving experience the opportunity to learn in a protected environment. This then gives new drivers enough time to acquire driving knowledge and skills.
Research backs up the effectiveness of GDL programs in reducing crash risks. For instance, Canada's use of GDL led to 20%–40% reductions in crash risks among new and young drivers. Even just basic GDL systems helped reduce fatal crashes involving drivers aged 16 to 17.
Differences Between G1, G2, & G Licenses and Restrictions
The GDL system in Ontario consists of three stages: G1, G2, and G.
- G1 License: This is the beginner's permit. G1 drivers must always be accompanied by a fully licensed driver with at least four years of experience. They are prohibited from driving on 400-series highways and must maintain a zero blood alcohol level.
- G2 License: After passing the G1 road test, drivers obtain a G2 license. G2 drivers can drive alone but still face certain restrictions, such as maintaining a zero blood alcohol level and limitations on the number of young passengers during nighttime hours.
- G License: This is the full driver's license. To obtain it, drivers must pass the G road test, which assesses advanced driving skills. G license holders have no driving restrictions.
G2 vs. G Drive Test: How Do They Differ?
The G2 test focuses on basic driving skills, including turning, stopping, and obeying traffic signs. The G test, on the other hand, evaluates advanced skills such as highway driving, lane changes, and overall road safety awareness.
In January 2022, Ontario introduced significant alterations to its G road test to address the backlog of drivers waiting to take their test due to the COVID-19 pandemic. These changes involved removing certain elements deemed duplicative from the test, including emergency stops, three-point turns, parallel parking, and driving in residential areas. However, these modifications were made without formal safety evaluations or cabinet approval.
A study conducted by MyChoice in January 2024 revealed a 7.82% increase in accidents among novice drivers who took the modified G test compared to those who took the full test. The study analyzed data from 4,800 Ontario G-licensed drivers and found that the percentage of novice drivers involved in accidents increased from 9.59% to 10.34% after the test changes.
The Auditor General of Ontario also criticized the decision to revise the G road test without adequate review, highlighting a 30% increase in the at-fault collision rate among drivers who passed the shortened test (2.4%) compared to those who completed the full test (1.8%).
Who Can Take the Ontario G Driving Test?
To be eligible for the G test in Ontario, you must:
- Be at least 16 years old.
- Have held a G2 license for a minimum of 12 months.
- Pass a vision test.
- Provide valid identification.
International drivers with a valid license from another country may be eligible to take the G test directly, bypassing the G1 and G2 stages, depending on their driving experience and the country of origin.
How to Book the G Test in Ontario
To book your G test in Ontario, you can:
- Visit the DriveTest booking site
- Call the automated booking line at 1-888-570-6110
- Book in person at a DriveTest centre
Make sure to bring your G2 license, identification, and payment information when booking or attending your test.
How Much Does the G Test Cost in Ontario?
As of 2025, the fees for Ontario’s G test are as follows:
- G2 Road Test: $53.75
- G Road Test: $91.25
- Complete G1 Licensing Package (written test + two road tests): $159.75
These fees may vary slightly depending on administrative changes, so it’s best to consult the DriveTest website or your local ServiceOntario location for current rates.
Note: If you fail your G test, you'll need to pay again to retake it. Ensure you're prepared the first time to avoid extra costs.
What to Expect During the G Road Test
The G road test evaluates your ability to operate a vehicle safely in various real-world driving scenarios. As of 2025, the full version of the test has been reinstated in most locations, following safety concerns raised about the shortened version.
Here's what the G test typically includes:
- Merging and Exiting Highways: You must show competence in merging onto highways, changing lanes safely, maintaining proper speed, and exiting smoothly.
- Lane Changes: You will need to demonstrate safe and timely lane changes using appropriate mirror and shoulder checks.
- Speed Control: Examiners assess whether you follow speed limits and adjust to traffic flow conditions properly.
- Observation and Awareness: You must show strong situational awareness, using mirrors frequently and reacting appropriately to other vehicles and pedestrians.
- Space Management: You should keep a safe following distance and navigate traffic with ease.
- Emergency Stops and Parking Maneuvers: Some test centers may once again include three-point turns, parallel parking, and roadside stops as part of the full test reinstatement.
What to Bring to Your G Test Appointment
To avoid any hiccups, bring the following items with you on your G test day:
- Your valid G2 license
- Two pieces of valid ID (e.g., health card, passport)
- Proof of completed G1/G2 road tests if applicable
- Your test booking confirmation number
- A roadworthy vehicle that meets Ontario safety standards (working lights, brakes, horn, mirrors, etc.)
Also, make sure your car has enough gas, windshield washer fluid, and a valid license plate and registration.
How to Prepare for the Ontario G Driving Test
Passing your G test the first time can save time, money, and frustration. Here are some helpful tips to boost your chances:
- Practice Highway Driving: The G test focuses heavily on your highway skills. Practice merging, changing lanes, and keeping a safe following distance on highways such as the 401 or 407.
- Use a Driving Instructor: A certified driving instructor can provide insights and correct mistakes you might not notice yourself. In 2025, many schools offer full G test prep packages with in-car practice and mock tests.
- Book a Warm-Up Lesson Before the Test: Some driving schools let you take a short lesson right before your actual test. This gets you in the zone and helps calm your nerves.
- Know the Test Routes: Test centers often follow the same driving routes. Ask your instructor or search online for common test routes at your DriveTest center.
- Stay Calm and Confident: Get a good night’s sleep before the test, eat a light meal, and stay calm. Panicking behind the wheel can cause you to forget simple things.
Tips to Pass the Ontario G Driving Test
Want to boost your chances of passing the G test on your first try? Keep these tips in mind:
- Practice Highway Driving: Since this is a key part of the G test, practice merging, lane changing, and maintaining highway speed under safe conditions.
- Refine Your Mirror Checks: Always check your mirrors and blind spots before turning, changing lanes, or braking.
- Follow All Signs and Rules: Don't roll through stop signs. Obey speed limits and traffic signals to the letter.
- Stay Calm: Nervousness can affect performance. Take deep breaths and treat the test like a regular drive.
- Take a Lesson: Booking a refresher driving lesson with a certified instructor can be a game-changer, especially for fine-tuning skills like parallel parking or high-speed merging.
What Happens If You Fail the G Test?
If you fail the test, don’t worry—you can retake it after a 10-day waiting period. Use the examiner’s feedback to improve your weak areas and consider scheduling extra driving lessons.
Also, keep in mind:
- You can retake the test as many times as necessary
- You must pay the fee again for each retake
- If your G2 license expires before you pass the G test, you may need to restart the graduated licensing process
FAQs About the G Test in Ontario
The G test usually takes 30–40 minutes, depending on traffic conditions and the location.
You must wait at least 12 months after getting your G2 before taking the G test.
Yes, but make sure it meets safety requirements and that you’re insured to drive it.
There's no set limit, but each attempt costs money. It's best to prepare thoroughly before rebooking.
A full G license must be renewed every five years in Ontario. You’ll receive a renewal notice before expiry.
Drive Like a Pro to Pass the G Test on Your First Try
As you can see, the G test in Ontario is the ticket to getting full driving privileges. That's why you should pass this final road test on your first attempt. Besides, you don't want to pay more than $89.25 for the exam, so, as much as possible, ace it from the get-go.
Once you get your G driver's license, you'd want to start looking for better auto insurance rates. That's where we here at Insurdinary can come to your aid. Let us know, and we can help you snag some of the best car insurance quotes and offers in Canada!
