Obtaining your G1 license is the first major milestone in becoming a licensed driver in Ontario, Canada. It leads to freedom, independence, and an entire new world of responsibility. You may be a teenager looking to take to the road or an adult beginning a driving career later in life, but having a sense of what is needed prior to applying for your G1 can save time and minimize stress. This post will guide you through all that you should know regarding G1 licence requirements and qualifications in Ontario.
What is a G1 License?
G1 license is the novice license in Ontario’s graduated licensing system. It provides new drivers with an opportunity to practice driving under specified conditions before reaching the second level—the G2 license. The reason for the G1 stage is to provide new drivers with an opportunity to gain experience, and develop their driving skills in safe conditions.
Who Can Apply for a G1 License
To be eligible to apply for a G1 license in Ontario, you need the following basic requirements:
Be atleast 16 years of age
You should be 16 or older when you make the application. If you are under the age of 18, it is advisable to have a parent or guardian accompany you but it is not mandatory.
Pass a vision test
You’ll need to complete a simple eye test at the test center, to confirm your vision meets the minimum requirements for driving.
Pass a written knowledge test
This test checks your understanding of traffic signs, rules of the road, & safe driving practices. It’s multiple-choice, and based on the Ontario Driver’s Handbook, so studying it is crucial.
Documents You’ll Need
When taking your G1 test, be sure to bring original documentation, that verifies your name, date of birth, and legal name. Some documents that are accepted include:
Valid passport
Canadian citizenship card
Permanent resident card
Birth certificate (coupled with government-issued photograph ID)
You cannot use photocopies, and all documents will need to be in English or French (or with a certified translation).
Where to Take the G1 Test
You may write the G1 test at any Ontario DriveTest location. before that, you need to attend a G1 practice test in Ontario. This test will increase your confidence level.
You do not require an appointment for the written test—you can simply drop by during business hours. Yet be sure to show up early in order to miss the queue. The cost of the G1 test package is about $159.75, and it covers the written test, a Class G2 driving test, and a five-year license duration.
If you’re in the London area, consider enrolling in an MTO approved driving school in London, Ontario to prepare effectively.
What Happens After You Get Your G1
After you pass the written exam, and get your G1, you’ll be subject to some limitations while driving:
Always accompany a fully licensed driver (Class G or higher) with at least 4 years of experience.
Your accompanying driver should ride in the front passenger seat.
You cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m.
No alcohol in your system when driving.
No operating on 400-series roads or expressways at high speeds unless under a qualified driving instructor.
You will have to wait at least 12 months before you can try the G2 road test while holding your G1 license. If you take an approved driver education course, you only need to wait 8 months.
Final Thoughts
Obtaining a G1 license in Ontario is an important milestone, & preparation makes the process easier. Make time to study, collect the proper documents. Know the regulations that go with your new license. It’s more than passing an exam—it’s becoming a responsible, safe driver for life.
Author: Sam David
Hi, I'm Sam David
