Difference Between G1, G2, and G Tests in Ontario

Learn the real difference between Ontario’s G1 knowledge test, G2 road test, and full G road test—what’s tested, what you’re allowed to do at each stage, typical timelines, official fees, and how to prep confidently.

Difference Between G1, G2, and G Tests in Ontario

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Introduction

If you’re getting your license in Ontario (or helping a teen, a newcomer, or a first-time driver), it’s easy to blur together what happens at G1 vs G2 vs G—and what you’re legally allowed to do after each step.

Ontario’s graduated licensing system is designed to build skill over time: you start with a learner stage (G1), move to a probationary stage (G2), then earn full privileges (G). The most reliable reference is the official DriveTest overview for Drivers’ Licences – Cars.

This guide breaks it down in plain language, with practical prep tips and budgeting info—especially helpful if you’re planning your first vehicle around Burlington, Hamilton, Oakville, Milton, Mississauga, Grimsby, or Brantford.

Key Takeaways

• G1 = vision + knowledge test and strict learner rules (including no driving from midnight to 5 a.m. and restrictions on 400-series highways/high-speed expressways unless with an Ontario-licensed driving instructor).

• G2 = first road test focused on basic driving skills; you can drive alone, but some drivers 19 and under have late-night passenger limits.

• G = final road test with advanced skills like highway driving.

• Timeline: G1 → G2 is 8 months with BDE or 12 months without; G2 → G requires 12 months.

• Official fees (verify before you go): DriveTest lists G1 package $159.75, knowledge retest $16.00, G2 road test $53.75, G road test $91.25.

• If buying your first vehicle after you pass, start with our financing step: Financing / Pre-Approval (O.A.C. – On Approved Credit. Conditions may apply.)

Ontario’s Class G Licensing Path (G1 → G2 → G)

DriveTest lays out the full Class G path step-by-step here: Drivers’ Licences – Cars (DriveTest).

How long does it take?

Most drivers take about 20–24 months minimum, because of the waiting periods between stages (and real-life scheduling). The bigger risk is waiting too long and running into expiry—DriveTest notes that if you’re approaching five years without getting your full G, you may be able to re-qualify by taking the G2 road test again (fees apply), but once a novice license expires you may need to restart at G1.

Local tip: If you’re trying to time your test around a new job, school, or commuting needs, check multiple nearby DriveTest centres and time slots—availability can vary a lot.

G1 Test in Ontario

What the G1 test is

At the DriveTest centre, you’ll complete:

• a vision test, and

• a knowledge test (rules of the road + traffic signs).

DriveTest also notes the knowledge test is typically about 30 minutes, with no appointment required (first-come, first-served), and recommends arriving early—especially on Saturdays and school holidays.

G1 rules and restrictions (what you can and can’t do)

With a G1, DriveTest lists these legal conditions (key ones):

• Zero blood alcohol

• Everyone must wear a seatbelt

• No driving between midnight and 5 a.m.

• No 400-series highways/high-speed expressways (examples include 401, 403, QEW, Gardiner, Conestoga Parkway) unless the accompanying driver is an Ontario-licensed driving instructor

• You must drive with a fully licensed driver with at least four years’ experience (and supervisor BAC conditions apply)

Official reference: DriveTest – Drivers’ Licenses (Cars).

How long do you hold a G1 before taking G2?

DriveTest states:

• 8 months if you complete a government-approved Beginner Driver Education (BDE) course, or

• 12 months without BDE.

G1 costs to budget for

DriveTest’s current fee table for Class G lists:

• Class G1 licence package: $159.75 (includes knowledge test, one G2 road test attempt, and a five-year license)

• Knowledge test (extra attempt): $16.00 

See: DriveTest – Fees.

G2 Test in Ontario

What the G2 test is

The G2 road test is your first on-road evaluation. DriveTest says the examiner assesses basic driving skills such as:

• turning left and right

• stopping

• parking

What changes when you pass your G2

With a G2, DriveTest notes you can:

• drive independently (no experienced driver required), and

• drive on all Ontario roads, including 400-series highways and high-speed expressways, and at any time of day—unless you are 19 or under.

Late-night passenger limits (19 and under)

DriveTest states that if you’re 19 or under:

• for the first six months with your G2, between midnight and 5 a.m., you can drive with only one passenger aged 19 or under

• after six months, you can have up to three passengers aged 19 or under during that time window

• exceptions apply (e.g., a fully licensed driver with 4+ years in the car, or immediate family members)

How long before you can take the full G test?

DriveTest: you must practise with your G2 for 12 months before taking the full G road test.

G2 costs to budget for

DriveTest lists:

Reference: DriveTest – Fees.

Full G Test in Ontario

What the G test is

This is the final Class G road test. DriveTest says the examiner assesses more advanced driving skills, including:

• highway driving

• (examples may include) parallel parking 

What you get when you pass

You earn a full Class G licence (no novice-stage restrictions beyond standard Ontario driving laws).

Full G costs to budget for

DriveTest lists:

• Class G road test: $91.25 

Official fee reference: DriveTest – Fees.

What to Practice Most (So You Don’t Repeat Tests)

Retests cost money and time. If you want the best odds of passing the first time, practise like the test is tomorrow.

For G1 (knowledge)

Focus your study on:

• traffic signs and what they mean

• right-of-way rules at intersections

• speed limits, following distance, and safe stopping

A solid official study resource is Ontario’s online Driver’s Handbook sign section: MTO Driver’s Handbook – Signs.

For G2 (basic road skills)

Prioritize:

• smooth stops (full stop, no rolling)

• mirror checks + shoulder checks

• lane position and controlled turns

• parking (front-in, reverse, hill parking)

DriveTest’s overview of what’s assessed is here: Drivers’ Licences – Cars (G2 test skills).

For G (advanced skills)

Practise:

• merging at highway speed

• safe lane changes (mirror–signal–shoulder check)

• keeping safe following distance at higher speeds

• planning early for exits/ramps

DriveTest’s G test overview is on the same page: Drivers’ Licences – Cars (G road test).

New Driver Budget Planning (First Car, Insurance, and Payments)

Once you pass G2 or G, the next “real-world” step is often: How do I afford my first vehicle responsibly?

If you’re a payment-focused commuter, a newcomer to Canada, or you’re rebuilding credit, a smart plan looks like this:

1. Set an all-in monthly comfort zone (vehicle + insurance + fuel + maintenance)

2. Pick a vehicle that fits your reality (commute distance, winter driving, parking, family needs)

3. Start with a financing plan so you shop with clarity, not pressure

Your next step with us:

• Financing / Pre-Approval (O.A.C. – On Approved Credit. Conditions may apply.)

If you want to browse while staying budget-aware:

• View inventory

• View used vehicles

• Payment calculator

Conclusion

Here’s the cleanest way to remember it:

• G1: prove you know the rules (vision + knowledge), then drive under strict learner conditions.

• G2: prove you can handle everyday driving skills, then drive independently with a few novice restrictions for some drivers.

• G: prove advanced skills like highway driving, then earn full Class G privileges.

Next step: If you’re planning to buy your first vehicle after passing G2/G, start with Financing / Pre-Approval (O.A.C. – On Approved Credit. Conditions may apply.) so you know your budget before you shop.

FAQ

How long does it take to go from G1 to full G in Ontario?

DriveTest’s required waiting periods are 8 or 12 months (G1→G2) plus 12 months (G2→G), so many drivers take about 20–24 months minimum, depending on readiness and booking availability.

Can I drive on the 401 with a G1 in Ontario?

DriveTest states G1 drivers must not drive on 400-series highways/high-speed expressways (like the 401) unless the accompanying driver is an Ontario-licensed driving instructor under the conditions described.

How much do the G1, G2, and G tests cost in Ontario?

DriveTest lists $159.75 for the G1 package, $53.75 for the G2 road test, $91.25 for the G road test, and $16.00 for an extra knowledge test attempt (fees can change).

What’s the difference between the G2 test and the G test?

DriveTest describes the G2 test as basic driving skills (turning, stopping, parking), while the G test assesses more advanced skills, including highway driving.

What should I study for the G1 knowledge test?

Use official Ontario handbook content for signs and rules—start here: MTO Driver’s Handbook – Signs.

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With over four decades in the automotive industry, Dealer Principal Rick Paletta is a trusted name across the Hamilton–Burlington region. Born and raised locally, Rick is respected for his integrity, work ethic, and people-first leadership—and he still loves this business because it’s about helping neighbours, building relationships, and matching people with vehicles they’re excited to drive. His commitment to the community shows up in consistent giving, including long-running support of McMaster Children’s Hospital through Car Nation Cares.