Three days ago I took the G1 knowledge test, which I happened to pass with a perfect score. Having just gone through the experience of getting my first Canadian driver’s license, I’d like to take a moment to describe the experience for those who are looking to hear about the process of getting a G1 driver’s license in Ontario. Personally I couldn’t find much on this topic when I searched for it before taking the test, which adds to why I want to recount my experience online.
In Ontario there is a graduated licence system that one must follow in order to obtain their driver’s license. After you’ve passed a vision test and a knowledge test, you obtain your G1 driver license (which is the first of step in the rather lengthy process to achieving your G license).
Obtaining your G1 is definitely cool, however it means that in order for you to actually get behind the wheel of a car, you need to have a fully licensed driver – with at least 4 years of driving experience – with you at all times. After holding a G1 license for 12 months (eight months if you take – and pass – an accredited driving course), you’ll be eligible to take a road test and get a G2 license. The G2 has some restrictions, but it enables you to drive on your own. After an additional 12 months, you’ll be eligible to take a more challenging road test, which if you pass, means that at long last, you’ll graduate to a full G license.
Preparing for the test
As a busy professional, I didn’t have much time to prepare for the written test. I needed to learn all the concepts for the test in just three evenings (Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, as I took the test on Saturday morning). In total I spent about 12 hours preparing for the test (4 hours per night).
The first thing I did was to read the official handbook, cover to cover, over the course of the first two nights. I couldn’t find the copy of the book I bought a while back, so I opted to use the free online version instead. Learning the theory from the book, line-by-line, is certainly important but it won’t likely ensure that you actually pass the G1 test. The reason for this is that there are too many arbitrary rules and numbers for you to accurately remember them all without making any mistakes, by simply reading the theory through once.
The key for me was that I spent Friday evening taking practice tests online. I used this free site, and took all the G1 tests they’ve got up there. At first, as you take these online tests, you may make some mistakes, but this is actually a blessing in disguise, as it will help you realize what your strengths and weaknesses are.
In my case, I immediately nailed all the questions that were logical, but did poorer when it came to things that were entirely arbitrary – as such questions about license suspensions rules. So before proceeding further, I read the rules pertaining to this area again, and also thoroughly reviewed the demerit point system. As I worked my way through this information for the second time, I did so with the earnest intent of really memorizing all of those rules and numbers.
Having read through that data a second time, I took the online practice tests once again and pretty much got 100% on all of them (including the lengthy 200 question “marathon” test). I knew at this point that I was ready for the real deal.
I can’t stress enough though, how much you really want to study and practise, because up to 70-80% of people fail their Ontario G1 knowledge test the first time they take it.
Going to the testing center
Believe it or not, I went to the wrong place first. There was an MTO near my house, so naturally I assumed I could take the G1 test there. After waiting in line for 20 minutes, the lady told me that I was at the wrong place. So I had to head over to an actual testing center that was about 20 km away. To save yourself the same kind of hassle and to find the DriveTest examination center nearest you, take advantage of this useful link.
The good news is that you don’t need to book your G1 test ahead of time. You can go anytime the office is open, though they recommend that you show up at least an hour before closing.
As soon as I arrived, I lined up for the help desk, where I was asked what I was there for. I provided my ID, and they asked me if I’d had a driver license before in any other country. After that, I was given a ticket and went to sit down Mr. Bean style as I waited for my turn.
The vision test
After asking you for your ID and having you sign some paperwork, the first thing you’ll do is take a vision test. You are not escorted, as one might expect, into a separate room to take the vision test, instead you stand there in front of the the DriveTest employee, and are instructed to pick up the pair of binoculars that are attached to the desk.
I was a little worried about this test, as I’ve read horror stories about people with good vision being rejected. Thankfully, in reality the test was very simple and straightforward. You’re shown a group of numbers such as “9 3 7 5 3 2” in three different positions, while you keep both of your eyes opened. Your vision would have to be fairly poor in order for you to mess up those numbers, as they’re printed quite big (they’re larger than the font in this post and they appear even closer to your eyes than your computer screen). Finally, a light goes off on the right or the left, a couple of times, and you need to say on which side the light appeared (this step is done to test your peripheral vision).
Don’t stress about the vision test, even if one of your eyes is weaker than the other, you should have no problem thanks to the fact that both of your eyes are tested at the same time (not one by one, as is sometimes the case at an optometrist’s office).
Going to the testing area
So long as you pass the vision test, you’re immediately asked to pay the $125 test fee, which can be paid via debit card, credit card, or cash. Next they take your photo right then and there, for which you can’t smile and need to keep you chin down as you look at the yellow dot below the camera.
Moving on, they stamp the back of your hand (with a little Government of Ontario logo), and you’re sent to the testing area with a yellow piece of paper with your details on it. You’ll deposit that paper into a basket and take a seat while you wait for the actual writing of the test to commence.
Overall the atmosphere at the testing center was friendly and relatively relaxed. The only worrisome point was seeing how many 16 year old kids were being told that they didn’t pass, and their resulting long faces.
The knowledge test
When they call your name, you head over to the desk and they give you a test form and a pencil (with an eraser, which you’re permitted to use). There are two test sheets, each of which contain 20 questions. The first one is about the rules of the road, while the second set of 20 questions is about road signs.
You need to get at least 16 questions right on EACH of them in order to pass the test. If you get 15 right on one, and absolutely nail the second perfectly, you’ll still fail the test nevertheless and will have to take it again another day (and pay an additional $10 to do so).
The “real world” test questions are remarkably similar to those on the online practice tests. In fact, most of them are included on the real test verbatim. If your memory is any good, you’ll run through and answer most of questions in a matter of seconds. In my case, I had all 40 questions answered in about 5 minutes. I found the test to be quite easy after practising online. If you got 100% on the online marathon test, it’s likely you won’t fail the real test because you’ll be presented with virtually the same questions and format.
Keep in mind that sometimes there will be trickier questions. However, with some common sense you should be able to figure them out. For example, one question asked what the number one cause of skids on the road was. The possible answers included over-inflated tire pressure, going too fast (speeding), and ice or snow.
While realistically the majority of skids will happen on ice or snow, particularly in Canada, you have to answer the way they want you to answer. When the weather conditions are good, speed is the number one cause of skids. When there is black ice on the road, too much speed in relation to the road condition is still the actual cause of skids. So, while it may be tempting to go with “ice or snow”, what you really want to select instead is “speed”.
When you’re done answering the questions, you deposit your test in a tray and your pencil in another, and then have a seat again. After five or so minutes, they’ll call you up and tell you whether or not you passed the test. If you passed, they’ll hand you a yellow paper that includes your test score, as well as your temporary G1 license (which is a piece of thick A5 paper). Your actual plastic license will be mailed out and reach you in about two weeks.
Having passed your G1 test, you can now leave the testing center and go celebrate! (The whole experience at the testing center took about 45 minutes for me.)
My next step will be to find an accredited driving school in North York and take (and pass) their course, so that I can take the road test at the end of November an obtain my G2 license.
I hope this firsthand account helps others out there who are preparing for the first time to get their G1 license. Best of luck to all of you!
Hari Prasad says
Thanks you so much for the info..its of great help.
anita says
this is such a nice and brief intro about G1 test
akanksha says
I am going to apply for my G1 test and this info definitely helped me a lot. thanks for sharing 🙂
Khalid says
Nice information Thanks
Sonia says
Thank you so much for sharing your experience. Will now proceed to taking my exam.
Eva says
Can u please help me my g1 test today I failed test please help me
Ruvian dancil says
Where did you take g1 test for saturday i need too take too but saturday availabale please
Anitha says
Wonderful Information ! It helped me a lot! thank you so much!
jaimatjak says
This experience sounds wonderful, but, it’s getting to the G1 TEST that is the problem for an ONTARIO born 16 year old.
They asked for ID with:
Name and Date of Birth (Birth Certificate): – Got it!
Signature: uhhhhhhhh, as a 16 year old, there’s nothing other than a bank card, which is not accepted.
Solution:
Get a Declaration from a Guarantor, which Service Ontario will provide you with. Now, you (as a 16 year old) must personally know the Guarantor for at least 2 years.
We went to the bank, where no one knows you really, but, as a client, you’d hope this qualifies.
Success! The nice bank lady was able to help. However, the 16 year old failed to sign the form in front of the Guarantor. So, Service Ontario confiscated the document and had us start over. We were not allowed to have that document back.
At the bank, the lady signed, and the 16 yr old signed. Ahh! We’re on our way to getting to write the G1 Test.
Back at Service Ontario, we were refused again, as the line which states GUARANTOR’S OCCUPATION read FSR (Financial Services Representative). It should have been written: employee of financial institution.
So, denied again.
What we’ve learned: To get a Canadian Passport, does not require all this work. It may take many weeks to receive the passport, but, in the end, we do not need a “PROFESSIONAL” to act as a Guarantor. In the end, we will have absolutely no problem getting our G1 Test, as the people at Service Ontario will recognize our Birth Certificate and our signed Passport. In the end, even if you have no desire to leave the country, get a Passport.
It’s the ROCK in the game of Rock, Paper, Scissors.
Antonio Cangiano says
My pleasure, Hari. Best of luck to you.
anita says
very well post
yusra says
Hi
I did my G1 test 2 times but i fail i really like to drive but i cant pass please help me how to do my test I’m new in canada and i can’t speak in english my english is not good im talking in pashto
but they dont have pashto G1 test
marie says
hey where is there a g1 test place near toronto where i can take my test on a saturday like you did.
teresa medina says
Yes I want to know too where ca I gave on Saturday or near by toronto, I can’t find ticket service after 2pm or before 8:30 am
anna says
Heey, this info was very good thank you, but you didn’t mention in how much time do you need to finish the 40 question, like how long do they give you to finish it
Denise says
Do you know how much it was to write you G1 exam. We are searching on line but, can’t find that information. Thank you
Antonio Cangiano says
Hi Denise,the G1 exam was $125, as I mention in the post above.Best of luck,Antonio
Fiona says
Where you given options on the g1 test ? Or simply had to fill out your answer
von says
i heard you can go to write your g1 test 5 months before your birthday or something..is this true 😮 ?
Antonio Cangiano says
Hi Von,
unfortunately you need to be 16 years old at the time of application. (See FAQ #4 on the official DriveTest site: http://www.drivetest.ca/en/faq/FAQ.aspx.)
Matthew says
What happens if I fail the test? Will I have to pay a second time the next time I take the test?
Antonio Cangiano says
Matthew, you can take the test again and only pay $10 each time you re-try.
Anonymous says
Thanks. Before I read this article, I didn’t really know what to expect with regards to the G1 test.
Cassy Tru says
Thanks very much, I had no idea what to expect or how much I should study beforehand
Liston says
Thank you so much!
Daniel says
Thank you for the interesting blog.
Leons Petrazickis says
You should be able to cut the wait between G1 and G2 from 12 months to 8 months by taking a class. These include 2-3 days of classroom time and driving practice. I found one in old timey yellow pages, but there should be more modern methods of finding one these days.
Btw, the floatinG like bar is pretty horrible on the Blackberry browser.
Antonio Cangiano says
Hi Leons,
thanks for stopping by. I’m aware of the eight month waiting period when taking a certified MTO course. In fact I’m looking for a good school these days. Young Drivers appears to be the gold standard, but they are awfully expensive. I’ll need to make an executive decision on this matter soon though.
Many thanks also for the feedback in regards to the floating bar. I’m going to see if I can find a less conspicuous positioning for it.
Sara says
Hi , so if you fail your g1 rule part of test twice and decide to go back another time to do it again do you have to repay the $125 dollars or can you just pay $10?
Antonio Cangiano says
Only $10, Sara. Best of luck.
Rissa says
I fail the test do they give same one back when rewriting
Natasha Durgen says
Hello Antonio. Where can I go online to practise. i have read the book but would love to do a online practise quiz before i go in to write my G1. thanks
Antonio Cangiano says
Natasha, try this: http://find-a-driving-school.ca/free-g1-practice-tests/g1-practice-test-road-signs/
Alexandra Briscoe says
That was awesome! Thanks so much for posting your experience 🙂 Now I have an idea of what to expect tomorrow !
Alexandra
Antonio Cangiano says
Best of luck, Alexandra.
Fardad says
Dear Antonio,
Thank you so much for this post. I was looking online for some useful information regarding the G1 written test but even the MTO’s website didn’t have anything good. I’ll be sure to check out your other posts as well.
As I was reading your post, new questions were forming in my head to which your answered appeared shortly after. This is called perfect writing. Now I don’t know what you do for a living, but I’m darned sure you are very successful at it.
Oh, and congratulations on your G1 license by the way (and also the road test if you finally managed to find affordable classes – in which case I would appreciate a reference, otherwise good luck for the end of this month!).
All the best,
Fardad
Antonio Cangiano says
Thank you so much, Fardad. I appreciate your kind words.
Bahara says
Hello, I had a couple of questions regarding the G1 test: 1. How much time are you given to complete the test? 2. What form of I.D should you bring with yourself? 3. If you fail the test, after what time period may you go back to retake the test? Thank you very much.
khatiza says
Guys everyone says clinton is a place for easy pass but it isn’t I failed I had too pay 450 too go der it’s a rip off
Jade says
OMG finally found someone actually wrote down their experience of G1!!! I thought I had to call the test place and make a appointment but seeing your post now that I dont need too! so I gotta say the vision test is weird, they give you a binocular?
Do they ask for 2 IDs? Or just one?
Antonio Cangiano says
Hi Jade,
I was asked for one ID only. The vision test is really easy, so it’s not something worth worrying about. 🙂 The “binocular” is attached to the desk, so you look into it rather than having them hand it to you.
Adam says
thanks for the info, i just went for my test and failed it by 2 questions, so i figured id come home and get a little more studying in, only to keep thinking i got ripped off thinking i would have to pay another 125 bucks, im glad its only 10 bucks everytime after if you fail, i was ready to write a letter lol, thanks again 🙂
Tracy says
Thanks for posting this info which is really helpful. I’m wonderfing the website you practice free online is really the same formate and same questions as the real written test. I am also practicing the same website as you, but I’m afraid that is not enought for practicing.
Antonio Cangiano says
With the exception of the occasional question, they are pretty much the same questions and answers. If you get them right on the site, each time, you are ready to take the test and pass.
Avril says
Thanks for the very useful info! The MTO website isn’t as informative.
Abin says
Hi, I took my g1 without giving my indian driving licence and now i have to wait for 1 year. Can I produce my driving licence and waive my waiting period ?
Antonio Cangiano says
I’m not sure, Abin. I would call the testing center about it.
Aleksandra says
What if I just want to take the G1 test for now, which comes to 10 bucks. Or is that not an option and I have to pay the entire package price?
And by the way, this is an extremely useful post. Thank you.
Antonio Cangiano says
Unfortunately I don’t believe you can, Aleksandra. To be sure, you may try to contact Drive Test.
Chelsea says
Hi 🙂
I was wondering, I’m turning 16 in 2 months and I’m already doing some practice tests and reading the book. When you first go there, they ask for I.D right? What sort of I.D? I heard from my friends that already took it, that you need photo I.D. Unfortunately my Ontario health card doesn’t have my picture on it yet and I don’t have a passport. So does that mean I have to wait till I do get photo I.D?
Antonio Cangiano says
Hi Chelsea, I’m not sure about your edge case. I would give them a call and ask what you can do.
Jennifer says
There’s a form you can pick up at the drivetest office beforehand and you need to have it filled out by a guarantor (it has a list of acceptable occupations to qualify for being a guarantor). We had my daughter’s signed by a friend who was a police officer and it stated he had known my daughter for 10 years. (Someone has to have known you for at least 2 years).
Ricky Shoker says
This information was most useful. I passed my G1 exam this morning. Links for practice tests were very helpful. Thanks!
Antonio Cangiano says
No problem, Ricky. Congratulations on your license.
Bailey says
I’m taking the test tommorow i think?!? And I was wondering what percent I have to get to pass?
Antonio Cangiano says
There are two sections, and you need to get 16 out of 20 (80%) right for both of them. Read the section below “The knowledge test” for details.
Shinedle says
I got 5 wrong on the rules test. Do I have to take the whole test again or just the rules?
Antonio Cangiano says
Whole test. Sorry. 🙁
Amy Winchester says
This is incredible! I’ve tried simple googling ‘getting my g1″ and nothing has been that helpful, until I found this. Thank you so much!
shahzad says
Thank you so much for sharing the experience.. the best blog I could find on the topic.
God Bless…
Harry says
Great & insightful post, Antonio! Thank you for writing it!
joel says
hey i was told that i can take my g1 test in ontario 3 months before my 16 birthday is this true? i lived in ontario and i have my truck ready to go just wanna know if theres a way i can get my g2 faster?
thanks
Lauren says
This is the most informative blog and piece of information i have ever read anywhere about getting a G1 license and taking the test. I always thought it was much more complicated than this. Being an adult in my mid 20’s it is kind of embarrassing that i don’t have my license yet however iam now at ease because it sounds quite easy. Thank you for this!!!
A.N. says
Hey Lauren,
I’m also an adult getting my G1 license later than the average person, so you aren’t alone in that. I am a bit nervous/anxious over the entire process (getting to the test center test, bringing appropriate ID, PASSING the test etc), even though I have been studying quite a bit. However, this blog has been really helpful in letting me know what to expect!
loraine says
I was wondering if you are not a permanent resident – can you still begin the process using your passport as ID?
Antonio Cangiano says
Unfortunately you can’t, Loraine. You need a PR card or citizenship to apply.
Judith says
Hi, Do you need to show proof of address or a canadian passport is enough. I live in montreal but im going to school in toronto. Can i give my montreal address untill i have an ontario proof?
Carina Peralta says
Hi,
I sent an email to the Ministry of Transportation asking if I can get a G1 license even if I am not yet a Permanent Resident,and they replied-yes we can get the license. Here is the link they sent to me: http://www.drivetest.ca/en/license/HowToApply.aspx
Thank you.
CARINA
Antonio Cangiano says
Thank you, Carina. I stand corrected. When I was a temporary worker myself I was told that I couldn’t apply. I guess they were wrong. Sorry for the misinformation.
Carina Peralta says
You are welcome and no problem. Regards.
loraine says
bide the way, best driving license post ever !
Moonaj says
Very helpful post. Read it two days ago. Already had practiced on some other websites but ran through the marathon questions on the site mentioned above. Went to Brampton Drive Test today. The centre was v.v. Busy and some of the staff was on their lunch breaks therefore the whole experience took me about 2 hours.Passed my G1 and was given an exemption for 1 year waiting period due to my home country’s licence. So now gonna find an instructor and start practicing. Thanks for sharing your experience.
Nads says
Thanks so much! Your personal account is awesome! I also found little info as to how to go about obtaining a licence. I was just going to go to the service centre down the street. Hope these marathon tests help me pass. Definately not a road less travelled to get this licence!
Melissa says
Information on obtaining the G1 was very accurate, except for this: If you fail your G1 test, you can pay the $10 on the same day and do it over again immediately. You dont have to leave and come back another day if you dont want to. After all, they show you the test, so you will see which questions you got wrong. If you are comfortable doing it over, just pay your $10 and go again.
Exclusive Kannon says
Hey Antonio, I just wanted to thank you for this blog even though I already knew ALL of this since I took the test last week but failed. I got a 15/20 on road and 20/20 on signs. Your information is 100% accurate so I wanted to thank you on behalf of all viewers including myself. Great job and thanks for taking your time to write this blog. Take Care!
~ Kannon
Jeremy Kamutzki says
Thanks very much for this article! it was extremely useful for me, as well as the practice tests. I wasn’t sure if I would be able to study for this as well as my exams, but after spending approx. an hour doing practice tests, my scores were around 95%, so I think i will be able to take this as well as study for my exams. Thanks very much for taking the time to write this article!
raj randhawa says
hi antonio i already cleared my g1 test. I was new here and didn’t show my experience. Is that possible if i show experince to them now??
Antonio Cangiano says
Hi Raj,
I don’t know if you can, but I’d go to the testing center again and ask what can be done.
raj randhawa says
kk..thnxx antonio
Anonymous says
Somebody mentioned to me that I do not have to wait for months after my G1 license to obtain my G2 if I am over the age of 18, is that true or would I have to take driving classes to shorten the time period in between the tests?
Antonio Cangiano says
Unfortunately that’s not the case. I took the G1 when I was 30. You’ll have to wait 12 months regardless of your age before taking the G2 test, unless you take an approved driving course (in which case, there is an 8 month waiting period).
A. ALI says
Thank you indeed, it great info.
Heather_J says
Hello, Antonio
I am preparing G1 test, and this info helps alot.
There’s not much info on the Internet;;
Thank you
Greg says
Hey man this is great! im 16 and really needed help finding info as there is hardly ANY on the web. thanks for taking the time to write this as it helped me and im sure has helped many others in my positiion 🙂
Greg says
my only question: isn’t it only $10 the first time u go in to write your test or is it $125? and you don’t have to schedule an appointment right? u can just walk in anytime?
Thanks, Greg
Antonio Cangiano says
Hi Greg,
you don’t have to schedule an appointment. You just show up. The initial payment is $125. If you fail and have to retake the test, then you’ll have to pay an additional $10.
Greg says
and do you pay that at the desk when u arrive in the building where you take the test?
Antonio Cangiano says
Yes. You pay at the desk.
Gurbir says
When retaking the test, do you need to redo the entire test or just the section that you didn’t do well on?
Antonio Cangiano says
The whole test.
Aisha says
Hi Antonio,
I was told by a friend of mine that if you go and give your G1 test right on your 16th birthday, you only have to pay $10
do you know if this is true or not?
Antonio Cangiano says
Unfortunately not true, Aisha. Best of luck.
Carina Peralta says
Hi Antonio,
I read all the comments…..just like to clarify,so if I am still on a working visa here,I won’t be able to apply for a G1 license and have to wait for my PR, is that right? Coz I am planning to take the tests this August so that when I have my PR and my kids here coming from my country I already have a G license.
Katherine says
Hello, thank you for this post. I know what to expect tomorrow 🙂 kind of:) I am getting my G1 @ a late age:( I never had the need for one. Now I am 32 and regret it. I will be back tomorrow here and let you know how it went. Also I looked up some classes and they are pricy! yikes! Did you get your full G yet? or are you @ G2? if so can you make a post what to expect for the G2 test? what they are looking for? if you passed for your G2 what was the hardest thing?
Antonio Cangiano says
Hi Katherine,
I got my G2 equivalent in BC, because I moved there early in the year. Best of luck.
Katherine says
I got my G1! YAY! I only got 1 wrong 🙂 the site you suggested for practice test was perfect! Helped a lot! so to celebrate when we got back (dad came with me-hubby out of town) my dad wanted me to get the feel behind the wheel, so we did, I got in and automatically got sick to my stomach thinking of driving. For now I will just soak it in, and book some lessons. Looking forward to my new Freedom @ 32!..hahahahahaha.. Thanks again for this blog!
Maria says
Your blog is very useful and helpful. It is also very encouraging and help anyone (and I for one) to get some courage and do it knowing what is the process involve. Thank you for posting it and I do hope to pass the test and try the online test you have suggested.
Samuel says
Hi, I was wondering, if you fail the test once and decide to take it again the day after, is there any restriction (in other words a cooling-off period before i can take it again)?
Euphy says
Thank you so much for the post, it helps a lot 🙂
Ben says
Thank you so much. I now know what to expect. I’m getting my G1 tomorrow. Hopefully I’ll pass 😀
steve says
thanks. this was very helpful.
Priyantha K.L. Arachchige says
Thanks very much. It really helpful and give a clear picture about the test and the related procedures..
Eli Rodreagez says
Thanks for the post! I was just wonder if the room where you wrote the test is really full, as I think it would be less stressful to wright in a room with less people.
Antonio Cangiano says
In my case it was fairly full.
Hafsah says
Thanks for your detailed account! I was just wondering, do they allow you to take your test score out of the room with you? Like to show your parents or take home with you (and is tha tyellow piece of paper the only place where the score will be written)? Also, is it all multiple choice?
Antonio Cangiano says
Yes to all three questions, Hafsah.
Miche says
this was so helpful! thank you
yogi says
Very useful article. Thanks for posting.
kadiyala venkat says
hii antnio..a gud info by u… i am from india….i had my indian license from past 3 years..is it necessary for me to wait
8months or 1 year after G1 test? thank u
Antonio Cangiano says
When you go to take the test, they will ask you if you have a license from a different country. Show them your Indian license. As far as I know, there is no waiting period for you. But talk to them BEFORE you take your G1 test.
nichole says
Hi antonio , i have already taken my G1 test but failed . i was wondering if i needed that yellow sheet to go back and take the test ?
Antonio Cangiano says
I’m pretty sure you don’t, but it doesn’t hurt to have it in your back pocket just in case they ask for it.
Nonito says
Thanks a lot for this. Been doing the marathon tests quite a bit and I’m feeling more and more confident as I go a long. Really have an insight of what to expect now.
fatma says
Hi!
Thanks 4da info!its really useful.am going for my test next week and this really helpd!!
F……..M
mike says
thanks for the information , there lots of details, fantastic.
im preparing for my g1 , probably going in 3 days
Aaron Schwartz says
Very useful. Well done. Thank you.
sha says
YOU say ” There are two test sheets, each of which contain 20 questions. The first one is about the rules of the road, while the second set of 20 questions is about road signs. You need to get at least 16 questions right on EACH of them in order to pass the test.”
”Adam says: on
December 9, 2011 at 1:46 am
thanks for the info, i just went for my test and failed it by 2 questions, so i figured id come home and get a little more studying in”
My Question is—- how many wronges can you make in the 2 tests that contains 20 questions on each sheet?
Is it 4 wrongs in each test,
or is it 2 wronges in each test to fail.
“CONFUSED” >_<
pls confirm, Thanks!!
Sha
Antonio Cangiano says
Hi Sha,
if you get 4 wrong question on each test (a total of 8) you’ll pass. If you get 5 wrong on one test and 0 wrong on the second test you’ll fail (despite the fact that the total is only 5). To pass you need to get 4 or fewer wrong answers in each of the two tests. Adam probably got 6 wrong answers (so 2 on top of the 4 allowed).
stacey says
Is this any way u can do it online? like do the real test!!
Antonio Cangiano says
No, otherwise anyone could have a friend do it for them.
Steph says
My birthday is December 31st.. Do you know if it would be open then? And is it true that after January 1st 2013 you can’t get your G1 until you’re 18?
Antonio Cangiano says
Yes, they are open. See here: http://www.drivetest.ca/EN/faq/Pages/DTC-Holiday-Hours.aspx
I don’t think so. The official page doesn’t mention anything about it: http://www.mto.gov.on.ca/english/dandv/driver/gradu/index.shtml
Best of luck,
Tony
YANG says
Very useful. Thank you.
and which driver school is better? the lower price .
Antonio Cangiano says
Young Drivers has a great reputation. It’s probably one of the best, but it’s not cheap. I don’t have any experience with, or opinions about, inexpensive schools, sorry.
Holly says
Hey, I was just wondering how long it took you to receive your g1 license? I have been waiting a month for mine to come!
S.G. says
Hi Antonio,
I went to take the G1 Test today, for the first time. The experience was how you exactly described it in your blog. Knowing what to expect inside the testing centre helped me ease my nervousness a bit. And yeah, I passed! 🙂 Thank you for your help!
S.G.
Jay says
Hi there,
Just wondering if you would know if the vision test is the same as you described it now in 20!2? My left eye is weaker than my right one so I’m nervous about it. Thanks.
Antonio Cangiano says
As far as I know, they haven’t changed it.
fred says
Hi there i just got my G1 yesterday and was put on my parents insurance today. How do i get my legit G1 liscense like photo card? Is it just sent in the mail? Or do i have to notify them for them to mail it?
Antonio Cangiano says
You will receive it by mail within a couple of weeks.
xin says
thanks so much! this is so helpful ~~~ I have been thinking about taking the G1 test for a long while, but every time I googled, not enough info about it, then I let the idea go after 5 min browsing…
After reading this post, I will take my exam this Saturday!
Mohamed says
Hi Antonio,
I have two queries
1) Does that matter if I have a driving license from another country which esatablishes that I have prior drving experience.
2) what are the operational hours of the drive test centers and are they open on Saturdays
Sumetha says
Thanks so much for this. I’m actually taking my G1 next week or so and I didn’t know if you had to book ahead of time. But on top of that, you gave me a bunch of great information. I really appreciate it. I’m the same as you. I have trouble with the rules but the signs are just fine. I took the marathon test like you said and got 93% on it, which isn’t a 100% like you, but I’m guessing it’s just fine. Thanks again. Hope you do great on your G2 test! 😀
Abytomas says
thanx , very useful info…i feel very relaxd now…
Justin says
Hey so im just wondering in london ON the drive test center isn’t open on the weekends witch is the only time i can do it what should i do? Im wanting to get my G1
Elvy says
Nicely done, Antonio.
I am taking the G1 test this week and your blog covers a lot. Thanks a bunch for sharing your experience and for the helpful links!
Elvy
Ash says
THanks soooo much for this!!! I’ve been stressing out for the past week about this test, and your step by step examination calmed me right down. I’m taking the test tomorrow.Hopefully I’ll pass!
Ganesh says
very helpful information…thank you very much
steve says
Thanks you ! very helpful
Riku says
Hi i failed in rule part, now again i hv to attend both part?
Antonio Cangiano says
Unfortunately, yes.
Xando says
thank you very very much! the world needs more kindly people like you!
Emi N says
Couldn’t find anything about the G1 exam online that was as informative as your post here. Thanks a ton for this!
kass says
How long are the courses after the g1 please
decx says
Thank you for this! You inspire me to take the test this Saturday! I’ve been procrastinating this test for 3 years.lol! I am so really scared!
Inzamam Haque says
Hey! This was a nice walk through the whole procedure. But did you find a good accredited driving school in north York? Young drivers and CAA are the best but they are so expensive. Which one did u end up going to? Would be great if you could let me know. Thanks!
Gustavo says
Really useful post! Thanks a lot for that!
Ben Y says
Thanks for this info. I have been trying to figure out how what the right processes were, as my son is of age to go to a driving school. this information is really helpfull. Now to find a reputable school.
Thanks again
Ben
Anam says
This really helped me!! thanks a lot, I’m almost 16 and about to get my license soon, and this was very useful 🙂
Chandra says
Thanks for the detailed info..God bless you…
Jennifer says
HI Antonio. Thank you for such a helpful blog. I was wondering if you about renewing your license. I previously had my G2. I went to Europe for a year and let it expire, and now I have to start all over again. Wanted to know if you had any advice on that, for example: does the price change if you are just renewing and how long do i have to wait before booking my G2 test???? Thanx again!!!
Laura says
Hi I’m in the same situation with an expired g2.
What did you end up doing?
Harris Bajwa says
I read the information that u posted on this. I just wanna know that can I get my G1 be for I turn 16. I will be si thankful to you
tristan says
Is it multiple choice? Like what on the reviewer link?
Laura says
Did you end up getting you g2 yet?
Debbie says
Hi, My son wrote his G1 and got 5 questions wrong. He tried it again the same day (a different test) and didn’t pass. Does he have to wait 1 year after two attempts?
bob says
Say I take the test and fail and then go back to it months later will I pay $10 or would I have to pay the original price ???
Eilene says
Hi so what happened to you? Did you pay the original price or just the 10 dollars? Bc i have thesame problem too.
Tirth Mehta says
I was wondering, I wrote my test once and failed. I plan on going again but I misplaced the yellow sheet they gave me. Will I still be in the system or will I have to pay 160 again
Eilene says
Hi. Did you pay the original price again or just the amount for retake exam? Is there expiry date of retaking the exam once you applied already for the application? Is it possible to do retake exam in any of drive test center? Thanks.
Kiran says
Pl can u tell me address of G1 test centre. In mississauga or near mississauga ont
Mirabelle says
Thank you so much for this information! It was really helpful as I was worried I wouldn’t pass it on my first try. The detailed description is very useful and hopefully I’ll pass it easily with enough studying!
Diana says
Thanks a lot that was very helpfull, We appreciate your time and effort in writing this.
Lynette says
This was one of the most informative and helpful articles/blogs I’ve read to date. It was great to have someone finally simplify things and break it down in a way that was fun to read and easy to understand so that I didn’t have to spend hours searching for what should’ve been easy information to obtain. Way to go!!
Anwar says
Did any one knows a G1 computerized Testing/(Electronic Testing) Location/Place in Toronto?.
jimit says
This experience helped me a lot.
phoebe Jane garcia says
is there an expiry date for redoing the g1 test if i fail?
mona says
same qustion
Sena says
I’m an international student in Canada. I just want to enter only G1 knowledge test so do i have to pay all fees? I came 3 months ago here. I’ll stay next June so i can’t enter g2.
Andrea says
Big success with your post! And your test! Thank you for taking the time to do this. Is most needed and most appreciated.
mah says
hi how many times can you fail a g1 test? i failed mine once and im going to do it again tomorrow, what if i fail again can i just pay and do it for the third time?
shoeb says
This is really helpful. Thanks
pawan says
hey after you do your written g1 test, how many days does it take to recieve your drivers id card thing.
pawan says
Thank you. Love all the info you gave about the g1 test process.
Krushal Mistry says
Is the office open on saturdays? And what are the working Hours?
Maansi says
I was just wondering if you found an accredited driving school in North York? and if you could tell me a little bit about your experience?
Thank you
I really appreciate your time and assistance.
Eddy says
If you have your g1 since March 2015, I booked a G2 road test match 2016. Would it be ok anyday in March, just as long as it’s in March or does it have to be on the exact day of the month you got your g1
Ali munir says
Hello,is there any need to book an appointment before??pllease tell me.
YO says
You are amazing. Thanks for taking your time to share your experience. The information provided was very helpful even 5 years later.
Lam says
Hi. Great information. Really it’s very top to pass the road test of Canada. Next month I am going to give my first G1 road test. I already registered my name through “Book Your Road Test Online” and got my confirmation for the test. But I still scared to give the test. Hope your suggestion will help me. Thanks for sharing this valuable information on G1 road test license.
Anjali says
I’m very nervous right now. I am having my test tomorrow morning. Thanks, all you wrote helped me a lot.
Kim says
Thank you! The fact that there is no info online for teens is ridiculous. You have been a great help to your fellow citizen:)
Holly says
Can I use just my Health card and birth certificate to get my g1 !?
Eilene says
Hi i i failed with my G1 exam and im going to retake again. So is it possible to do it in any drive test center or just the place where i took the first attempt exam? Is there any expiry date of retaling the exam?
Ang says
Thank you so much for the info. just an update it now cost $158 as of Sept 2016
Semie sama says
Thank you so much indeed for your time and efforts to walk prospective drivers through the process of obtaining a G1 L
nandy says
Hi,
I attempted g1 test and failed rules with 15 marks. How many times can we attempt the g1 test?
any suggestion is highly appreciated.
Thanks
Rubaiya says
Hi Antonio!
This was a really helpful article! Can you please let me know which accredited driving school did u go to cause I also live in North York.
Thanks
Rubaiya
Antonio Cangiano says
http://exexaminers.com
Jaz says
Thank you for the information which is essential for new drivers and saves them time and anxiety. My friend who is trying to get driving licence as a visitor really appreciated this blog. Thanks again.
Asma Khatun says
Thanks!!!!!! Your daaaa best. I felt like I was watching you do all the steps. will save me time and probably money. 😀
varsha says
Thanks for laying out the details of each step with clarity. This article helped answer all my questions in one read and definitely reduced the anxiety.
Ami says
Hi, my dad today gave the G1 written test and failed in one section . He is leaving tomorrow to the home country and won’t be coming back before 1 year. Will the fees they pay still stay effective after a year or will he loose it all. I know you only have to pay $10 to rewrite the exam but not sure if that will be the case in his scenario. He prepared really well for the exam and was confident that he should get it cleared in one go. After failing he asked to rewrite the exam but they told him to come tomorrow as there was big line up and it was already 4pm. Please clear my doubts. Thanks!!
erik smith says
i love how straight up u were most articles are no where close to it. your commas are confusing
Donald Asamoah says
Do you have to pay the $125.00 right away or can it be deferred?
Sandeep Ghosh says
Thank you very much, very informative blog.. 🙂
Troy G. says
This was the most straightforward information I have found. Thanks for sharing.
Elham Eslami says
Thank you so much. It helped me!
SyedAbid Raza says
Very little information on official driving test website. I couldn’t find from their website that test can be booked online and also couldn’t find out if a specific test center offers G1 test.
Hadi says
Thank you so much for this very very useful post.Really helped me a lot
Mary says
This is such a clear, helpful posting, and with such useful links! Many thanks to the generous author for these efforts that have helped so many, including me!
Tife says
I’m glad I found this page, it’s a lot of helpful info. Thanks for sharing your experience 🙂
richi says
Hi,
I have same question.In my case ,I forgot to carry the DL but my husband carried a DL though both of us didn’t have an extract.According to manual,MTO website and all other sources both of us can credit 12 months driving experience.Someone told us that usually immediately after G1 knowledge test they tell you that now you are eligible for G2 if you have previous experience of driving.But the officers did not say anything.I am wondering that how will we know if we are eligible for G2 road test.In our papers we mentioned our driving experience of 5 years and 10 years
Heaven says
I’ve been looking for a guide to help me have an idea of what to expect and as well be prepared. This is very well written, you definitely answers all of my inquiries,
Thank you very much!
Rajadurai thirukumar says
Money no problem. D WRITTEN test can u help me only please keeler street driving center ministry. Can u help me please. More money u hand please God help me please
David says
Thanks!!
Yesi says
i just passed the test with only one mistake in rules and one mistake in road signs and to be honest the test was exactly with the questions here so thank u so much i dont needed to buy a book or read anything i just practiced with this app for some days and i said am gonne go and try it and was very easy for me i finished all of it in only 6 minutes
Thanks in advance
Randal Oulton says
August 2022: The link provided for the “the free online version” of the “The Official Ministry of Transportation (MTO) Driver’s Handbook” has gone stale. The gremlins at the MTO got bored and moved things around, I guess. The new link is: https://www.ontario.ca/document/official-mto-drivers-handbook
Also the link for the practice tests has gone bad as well, but I haven’t yet found an update for it.
Cheers