G1 to G2 to G: Ontario's Graduated Licensing Explained
Ontario uses a two-step graduated licensing system. Here is what each level allows, how long you have to wait between tests, and how to move through it faster.
Pass a knowledge test to get your G1. Wait 12 months (or 8 with an MTO-approved BDE course), then pass the G2 road test. Hold your G2 for 12 months, then pass the G road test for your full licence. You must finish within 5 years.
Step 1: G1 licence
You can apply at 16. You'll take a vision test and a written knowledge test on the rules of the road and road signs at a DriveTest centre.
G1 rules
- Zero blood alcohol and no drugs.
- A fully licensed driver with at least 4 years of driving experience must sit in the front passenger seat, and their blood alcohol must be under 0.05.
- No driving between midnight and 5 a.m.
- No 400-series highways or high-speed expressways (such as the QEW and Gardiner), unless your accompanying driver is a licensed driving instructor.
- Only as many passengers as there are working seatbelts.
Wait before the G2 test: 12 months, or 8 months if you complete an MTO-approved Beginner Driver Education (BDE) course.
Step 2: G2 licence
Pass the G2 road test to drive alone, on any road, at any time. See our G2 road test checklist for what examiners look for.
G2 rules
- Zero blood alcohol and no drugs.
- If you're 19 or under, there are passenger limits between midnight and 5 a.m.: in the first 6 months, only one passenger aged 19 or under; after that, up to three. These limits don't apply if a fully licensed driver is in the front seat or the passengers are immediate family.
Wait before the G test: at least 12 months holding your G2.
Step 3: Full G licence
The G road test is longer and includes highway driving: merging, lane changes at speed and exiting safely. Once you pass, the graduated-licensing restrictions end.
Remember: in Ontario, drivers aged 21 and under must have zero blood alcohol, whatever their licence level.
Timeline at a glance
| Stage | How to get it | Minimum wait to next stage |
|---|---|---|
| G1 | Vision + knowledge test | 12 months (8 with BDE) |
| G2 | G2 road test | 12 months |
| G | G road test (incl. highway) | Full licence |
You must complete the whole program within 5 years of getting your G1.
The fastest safe route to your G
- Get your G1 and start an MTO-approved BDE course right away (compare BDE course prices).
- Take your G2 test at 8 months with a G2 road test package.
- Practise highway driving during your G2 year, then book a G road test package at 12 months.
Rules can change. Always check the latest details on the Government of Ontario website.
Frequently asked questions
How long do I have to wait between G1 and G2 in Ontario?
12 months, or 8 months if you complete an MTO-approved Beginner Driver Education course.
How long between G2 and G?
You must hold your G2 licence for at least 12 months before taking the G road test.
Can I drive on the 401 with a G1?
Only if your accompanying driver is a licensed driving instructor. Otherwise G1 drivers can't use 400-series highways or high-speed expressways.