Your ultimate guide to passing the G test in Ontario

Your Ultimate Guide to Passing the G Test in Ontario

May 8, 2023

Are you getting ready to take your first driving test in Ontario? Don't worry, we know it can be a nerve-wracking experience, with the examiner sitting beside you, watching your every move. But if you've put in the time and effort to practice driving after your G1 test, then you're in good shape. And if you're looking to get your driver's license in Ontario, you've come to the right place. We've got all the information you need to know to pass the ultimate driving test - the G test. So let's buckle up and get started!

 

What is the Ontario G test?

In Ontario, the G driving exam is the ultimate road test that individuals need to pass to attain a complete driver's license. It represents the final stage of the licensing process, and assesses a range of advanced driving skills beyond those evaluated in the G2 assessment, such as highway driving, parallel parking, lane changes, and other abilities.

If you're looking to get your full driver's license in Ontario, you'll need to go through a 20-month graduated licensing process, which includes passing two road tests - G1 and G2.

Licensing Levels in Ontario:

G1 is the first level of licensing in Ontario

G2 is the second level of licensing in Ontario

G1 Licensing:

  • With a G1 license, drivers can operate a vehicle under certain restrictions

  • Accompaniment of a fully licensed driver with a minimum of 4 years of experience is required with a G1 license

Upgrading to G2:

  • G1 license holders can take a road test after 8 or 12 months to upgrade to a G2 license

  • Passing the G2 road test allows drivers to operate a vehicle without a fully licensed driver accompanying them

G2 Licensing:

  • G2 licensed drivers have fewer restrictions than those with a G1 license

  • Some restrictions still apply to G2 licensed drivers, such as zero blood alcohol content while driving

  • Furthermore, G2 drivers aged 19 years and below are subject to specific limitations between midnight and 5 a.m. Additionally, during the first six months after obtaining a G2 license, the driver can only have one passenger aged 19 or under in the vehicle. After this period, and until the driver receives their full G license or turns 20, they may have up to three passengers aged 19 or under in the vehicle.

G License:

After a year of practice with your G2, you can finally take the G test and obtain your full Class G license, giving you the freedom to drive any car, van, or small truck with some weight restrictions related to towing and trailering. Having a Class G license is also a prerequisite for driving other types of vehicles like buses and transport trucks.

 

How many mistakes are allowed during the G test?

The examiners use a points-based system to assess driving competence. To pass, you must score at least 80 percent on the test. However, even if you achieve this score, a single significant mistake can lead to an immediate failure.

During the G test, examiners deduct points for mistakes such as improper lane changes, poor merging, failure to check blind spots or signal, and repeating mistakes. Even in the absence of minor errors, committing a severe mistake such as running a red light or not yielding to an emergency vehicle can result in an automatic test failure.

So, when you take your G test, make sure to drive safely and confidently, and stay alert to avoid any critical mistakes!

 

How to book a G test?

When you've completed the required 12 months of driving experience with your G2 license, it's time to book your G road test. You'll need your driver's license number (from your G2) and the test fee of $91.25 to proceed with booking.

The easiest way to book your test and find a testing center near you is by visiting the official website, drivetest.ca. On the homepage, simply click the 'Book a Road Test' button and follow the prompts to reserve your spot.

 

Important tips to pass the Ontario G Test

  • Accumulate plenty of driving experience in various settings before booking your G road test

  • Review the official Ministry of Transportation (MTO) Driver’s Handbook to learn the important skills and information you’ll be tested on

  • Consider enrolling in a driver training program for additional knowledge and skills

  • During the road test, follow the examiner’s instructions closely and be prepared for a variety of driving scenarios, such as parallel parking, hazardous conditions, passing vehicles, and safe driving practices

  • Sit in an upright position to keep your chin up and eyes looking far up the road, allowing you to react to potential hazards and maneuver in traffic

  • Leave a generous following distance to see more of your surroundings and gather quality information about your driving environment

  • Consider opening a window in lower-speed situations to audibly reinforce what’s happening in your driving environment

 

What do you need to drive in Ontario?

In order to obtain a driver's license in Ontario, there are a few requirements that must be met. 
Firstly, the applicant must be a minimum of 16 years old. Additionally, they must pass a vision test and a written examination that assesses their knowledge of traffic regulations and road signs. Successful completion of these tests grants the applicant a G1 license, which signifies that they are a novice driver.

Tourists who plan to visit Ontario for less than three months can use their valid driver's license from their home province, state, or country to operate a vehicle in the province. However, they must be at least 16 years old, carry proper insurance coverage, and have the original or exact copy of the vehicle ownership permit while driving. On the other hand, visitors who will be staying in Ontario for more than three months require an International Driver's Permit (IDP) from their country, which should be obtained before arrival. The IDP works in conjunction with the driver's license from the visitor's country of origin, and it is essential to have it while driving in Ontario.

If you are a new resident of Ontario with a valid driver's license from another province, state, or country, you are permitted to use it for up to 60 days after relocating to Ontario.

By following these tips and being a responsible driver, you can attain your full driver's license and enjoy the freedom of driving any car, van, or small truck.

 

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