Introduction to the Ontario G1 Driving Test

The Ontario G1 Driving Test is the first step to becoming a licensed driver in Ontario. This written knowledge test checks your understanding of traffic signs, rules of the road, and safe driving practices. Passing the G1 test is essential to obtain your G1 licence, which allows you to practice driving under supervision.

G1 Licence Overview

A G1 licence is a learner’s permit with restrictions designed for new drivers:

• Drive only with a fully licensed G driver (4+ years experience)

• No 400-series highways except when supervised

• Zero blood alcohol content (BAC)

• Must obey all traffic laws and speed limits

• Seat belts must be worn at all times

G1 holders must maintain their licence for 8–12 months before taking the G2 road test. Driver education can reduce this period to 8 months.

Preparing for the G1 Knowledge Test

The G1 test is based on the Ontario Driver’s Handbook, which covers:

• Road signs and their meanings

• Traffic laws and regulations

• Sharing the road with pedestrians, cyclists, and vehicles

• Safe driving and winter driving practices

Study Tips

• Read the Ontario Driver’s Handbook thoroughly

• Use online G1 practice tests like test2go.ca

• Memorize all road signs by shape and color

• Focus on understanding rules, not just memorizing

Ontario G1 Driving Test Guide 2025: Tips, Practice, and Rules

Ontario Road Signs

1. Regulatory Signs

Regulatory signs indicate rules that must be followed:

• Stop – come to a full stop

• Yield – give way to other traffic

• Speed limit – maximum or minimum speed allowed

• No parking / no stopping – restricted areas

2. Warning Signs

Warning signs alert drivers to potential hazards:

• Curve ahead – reduce speed

• Pedestrian crossing – watch for people

• School zone – slow down for children

• Slippery when wet – important in winter

3. Guide and Information Signs

Guide signs provide directions and information:

• Highway exits and distances

• Gas stations, hospitals, and services

• Destination signs – distance to towns or cities

Basic Driving Rules for G1 Drivers

Right-of-Way Rules

• At uncontrolled intersections, yield to the vehicle on your right

• Always give pedestrians the right-of-way at crosswalks

• Stop for school buses unloading passengers

Speed Limits

• Urban roads: 50 km/h

• Rural roads: 80 km/h

• Highways: 100 km/h

• Adjust speed according to weather and road conditions

Following Distance

• Minimum 2-second gap in good weather

• 3–4 seconds on wet, icy, or snowy roads

Lane Changes

• Always signal before changing lanes

• Check mirrors and blind spots

• Only change lanes when safe

Winter Driving Laws in Ontario

Ontario winters require special precautions:

Winter Tires

• Mandatory from December 1 to March 31

• Improve traction on snow and ice

Vehicle Preparation

• Clear all snow and ice from windows, mirrors, lights, and roof

• Carry emergency items: ice scraper, blanket, shovel, food, and water

Safe Driving Techniques

• Reduce speed and increase following distance

• Use low beam headlights in fog or heavy snow

• Brake gently; avoid sudden stops

• Overdriving headlights is dangerous; you cannot stop within visible distance

School Buses and Pedestrians

• Stop for buses even in winter conditions

• Always give pedestrians right-of-way

Ontario G1 Driving Test Guide 2025: Tips, Practice, and Rules

Alcohol and Driving Laws

• Zero tolerance for G1 drivers

• BAC must be 0% at all times

• Drinking and driving penalties include fines, licence suspension, and criminal charges

Seat Belts and Child Safety

• Drivers are responsible for passengers under 16 wearing seat belts or proper child car seats

• All passengers must wear seat belts

• Violations result in fines and demerit points

Common Mistakes on the G1 Test

• Confusing road signs

• Forgetting right-of-way rules

• Ignoring school bus and pedestrian laws

• Misunderstanding speed limits

• Overlooking winter driving rules

Ontario G1 Driving Test Guide 2025: Tips, Practice, and Rules

Practice Tests and Resources

• Test2Go.ca offers free G1 practice tests

• Use mock exams to identify weak areas and simulate test conditions

• Multiple short quizzes improve retention better than one long session

G1 Test Day Tips

• Arrive early and bring ID documents

• Read each question carefully; watch for tricky wording

• Take your time; aim for 80% or higher

• Stay calm and confident

After Passing the G1 Test

• Start supervised driving practice

• Log driving hours for G2 preparation

• Focus on defensive driving and obeying all rules

• Avoid distractions, especially mobile phones

Ontario G1 Driving Test Guide 2025: Tips, Practice, and Rules

Summary

The Ontario G1 Driving Test is your first step to becoming a licensed driver. To pass successfully:

• Study the Ontario Driver’s Handbook

• Learn all road signs and traffic rules

• Practice with online tests on test2go.ca

• Understand winter driving laws, school bus rules, and pedestrian rights

• Follow seat belt and child safety laws

• Be prepared and confident on test day

By following these tips and practicing regularly, you can pass your G1 test on the first try and start your journey to safe driving in Ontario.