How to Get Your Driver’s Licence in Ontario – Step-by-Step Guide

 

Getting your driver’s licence in Ontario happens in three stages: G1 → G2 → G. Below is a clear and simple guide to help you understand each step, how to prepare, and where to book your tests.

 

 

 

1. Step One: Get Your G1 Licence

 

 

 

What is a G1 Licence?

 

 

The G1 is the beginner’s licence. You must be at least 16 years old and you must pass a written knowledge test.

 

 

How to Prepare for the G1 Test

 

 

Study the Official MTO Driver’s Handbook.

You can use these helpful resources to prepare:

 

  • Ontario.ca/DriversHandbook – Official handbook (free online PDF)

  • Apnatoronto.com – Free G1 practice tests

  • G1.ca – Free online practice questions

  • MTO-approved textbooks (optional)

 

 

 

What Happens on Test Day?

 

 

You will take two multiple-choice tests:

 

  • Rules of the road

  • Traffic signs

 

 

Bring:

 

  • 2 pieces of ID

  • Test fee payment

 

 

You write the test at any DriveTest Centre.

 

 

 

2. Step Two: Get Your G2 Licence

 

 

 

Requirements

 

 

  • Hold your G1 for 12 months, or

  • Hold G1 for 8 months if you complete a BDE (Beginner Driver Education) Course from a ministry-approved driving school (like ours).

 

 

 

What Is the G2 Road Test?

 

 

This test checks:

 

  • Basic driving skills

  • Turns, stops, lane changes

  • Parking

  • Obeying traffic signs

  • Safe driving habits

 

 

At this stage, you can drive alone, but you still have some restrictions.

 

 

How to Book Your G2 Test

 

 

You can book online through:

 

  • DriveTest.ca (official booking website)

    You can choose the location, date, and time.

 

 

 

 

3. Step Three: Get Your Full G Licence

 

 

 

When Can You Take the G Test?

 

 

  • You must hold your G2 for 12 months before taking the G road test.

 

 

 

What Is the G Road Test?

 

 

This is an advanced test that includes:

 

  • Highway driving

  • Lane changes at highway speed

  • Merging and exiting ramps

  • Overall safe driving habits

 

 

This test is longer and checks your full driving skills.

 

 

Booking Your G Test

 

 

Book online through:

 

  • DriveTest.ca (official website for all road test bookings)

 

 

 

 

4. Additional Tips for Success

 

 

 

A. Take Professional Driving Lessons

 

 

Certified instructors help you:

 

  • Build confidence

  • Learn proper techniques

  • Understand test routes

  • Fix bad habits

  • Pass the test the first time

 

 

 

B. Practice Regularly

 

 

Use the car of someone with:

 

  • 4+ years G licence

  • A clean driving record

  • Insurance coverage for supervising learners

 

 

 

C. Arrive Prepared for Road Tests

 

 

Bring:

 

  • Your licence

  • Road test confirmation

  • A safe, working vehicle

    (Your driving school can also provide a car for the test.)

 

 

 

D. Check Your Eligibility

 

 

Before booking any test, make sure:

 

  • Your licence is valid

  • You meet the waiting period

  • You have no suspensions

 

 

 

 

5. Useful Websites

 

 

Here are the main official and practice websites you should know:

 

  • DriveTest.ca – Book G1, G2, G tests online

  • Ontario.ca – Official MTO information and the Driver’s Handbook

  • Apnatoronto.com – Free G1 practice tests

  • G1.ca – Free sample questions

  • MTO Driver’s Handbook PDF – Free online version through Ontario.ca