Steps Required to Become a Fully Licensed Driver in Ontario

Introduced September 1, 2005

How do I enter the first stage (Class G1)?

To get a Class G1 licence, you must:

• Be at least 16
• Take a vision test
• Take a driving knowledge test

How long will I be in the G1 stage?

You will be in the G1 stage for 12 months. However, if you successfully complete a ministry-approved beginner driver education course, this can be reduced to eight months. You can leave the G1 stage no earlier than age 16 years and eight months. You must finish both the G1 stage and the G2 stage within five years.

What are the restrictions while I am in the G1 stage?

You must drive with an accompanying driver, who has to be a fully licensed driver with at least four years of experience and a blood alcohol level of less than .05, and who is the only other person in the front seat. You cannot have more people in the back seat than you have working seatbelts. You cannot drive on 400-series highways or other high-speed expressways such as the Queen Elizabeth Way, Don Valley Parkway, Gardiner Expressway, E.C. Row Expressway and the Conestoga Parkway, unless you are with a licensed driving instructor. You cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m. You cannot drink when you are driving – your blood alcohol must be zero. 

What else should I know?

If you get two demerit points, you will receive a warning letter. If you get six demerit points, you may have to go for an interview. If you get nine demerit points, your licence will be suspended for 60 days. You can also get a 30-day suspension if you get a ticket for a violation of your licence use conditions.

How do I enter the G2 stage?

To enter the G2 stage, you must pass the Class G2 road test.

How long will I be in the G2 stage?

You must be in the G2 stage for 12 months.

What are the restrictions while I am in the G2 stage?

You cannot drink when you are driving – your blood alcohol must be zero. You must not have more passengers in the vehicle than the number of working seatbelts.

Also, if you are 19 or under, the number of young passengers you can carry is limited between midnight to 5 a.m.  For the first six months, G2 drivers 19 or under can carry only one passenger aged 19 or under. After the first six months, and until you earn a full G licence or turn 20, you can carry only three passengers aged 19 or under. These restrictions do not apply if a full G-licensed driver with at least four years’ experience accompanies you in the front seat, or if your passengers are immediate family members.

What else should I know?

If you get two demerit points, you will receive a warning letter. If you get six demerit points, you may have to go for an interview. If you get nine demerit points, your licence will be suspended for 60 days. You can also get a 30-day suspension if you get a ticket for a violation of your licence use conditions.

To graduate to a full G licence, you must pass the Class G road test. The earliest you can do this is age 17 years and 8 months.

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