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Guide

The G1 Test Guide: How Ontario's Knowledge Test Works

The G1 is Level One of Ontario's graduated licensing system for novice drivers: a written knowledge test on the rules of the road and traffic signs. Here's what actually happens before, during, and after it.

Overhead directional signage on an Ontario 400-series highway

Who can take the G1 test

  • You must be at least 16 years old.
  • You must be an Ontario resident.

What to bring

Bring two pieces of identification that together show your legal name and date of birth. A vision test is done at the same visit, so plan for both.

What the test covers

The knowledge test covers two areas: the rules of the road, and traffic signs. Our practice tests mirror that same split. See the full list of practice tests.

Where to take it

DriveTest centres are walk-in, no appointment needed, with one exception: the ServiceOntario Bay & College location in Toronto requires an appointment.

What it costs

The application fee bundles three things together: the knowledge test, your first road test, and a five-year licensing fee.

We don't list a dollar figure here because the exact fee isn't published on ontario.ca and it changes over time. Check DriveTest.ca for the current fee before you go.

Study material

The Official MTO Driver's Handbook is free to read online at ontario.ca, or available in print through Publications Ontario.

Print pricing can change: confirm the current price with Publications Ontario before ordering.

How long you hold a G1

Level One (Class G1) must be held for 12 months. That drops to 8 months if you complete an approved driver-training course.

G1 restrictions

While on a G1, you must follow all of these:

  • A qualified accompanying driver in the front passenger seat: someone with a valid Class G (or higher) licence and at least 4 years of driving experience.
  • Your blood-alcohol level must be zero.
  • No driving between midnight and 5 a.m.
  • No driving on specified 400-series highways (speed limits over 80 km/h) or the QEW, Don Valley Parkway, Gardiner Expressway, E.C. Row Expressway, or Conestoga Parkway, unless a licensed driving instructor is with you.

Next step

Once you know the format, the fastest way to get ready is to practice with real question patterns. Start with G1 Practice Test 1, or jump straight into the Exam Simulator for the closest thing to test-day conditions.

Sources

G1 Test Ontario is independent and not affiliated with the Ontario Ministry of Transportation, DriveTest, or any government agency. Confirm current rules and fees at ontario.ca and drivetest.ca. See the full list of sources on our credits page.