Getting a G1 Licence in Ontario

Who can apply for a G1

To apply for a G1 licence in Ontario, you must be at least 16 years old. There’s no upper age limit, and the G1 is the mandatory starting point for almost everyone entering the graduated licensing system, regardless of age. If you already hold a valid licence from another jurisdiction, the process may be different — see our page on exchanging an out-of-province or out-of-country licence instead.

The tests you need to pass

Getting a G1 requires passing two tests at a DriveTest centre: a vision test and a written knowledge test. The knowledge test covers the rules of the road and the meaning of traffic signs, and is generally based on the official Ontario driver’s handbook. There’s no road test at this stage — that comes later, when you’re ready to move from G1 to G2.

Because the G1 test is knowledge-based rather than skills-based, many new drivers prepare using the official handbook and practice tests before booking an appointment. Passing both the vision and knowledge components on the same visit is typical, though requirements and booking procedures can change, so it’s worth confirming current details with ServiceOntario or DriveTest before you go.

What driving on a G1 actually looks like

Once you have a G1, you can start driving, but not alone. A G1 driver must always be accompanied by a fully licensed driver who holds a full G licence and has at least 4 years of driving experience, seated in the front passenger seat. A zero blood-alcohol requirement also applies to G1 drivers at all times. These and other conditions are covered in more detail on our G1 restrictions page.

Moving beyond G1

A G1 licence isn’t meant to be held indefinitely. To move on to G2, you generally need to hold your G1 for a minimum of 12 months — or 8 months if you complete an approved driver-education course — and then pass a road test. Ontario allows up to 5 years total to complete the full G1-to-G progression, so there’s no need to rush, but letting a G1 lapse or expire can create its own complications. Our getting a G2 licence page walks through what comes next.

Why this stage matters for tickets

If you receive a traffic ticket while holding a G1, it’s worth understanding that novice drivers can face consequences beyond the standard fine and demerit points that apply to any driver. See our page on novice-driver penalties for how G1 and G2 stages can change the stakes of a conviction.

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