The G road test is the final step before becoming a licensed driver. After completing the final step in Ontario’s graduated licensing system, you can drive anywhere in Canada without any of the restrictions that came with your G1 and G2 licence. If you’re ready to get your G licence in Ontario, here’s what you need to know about the requirements, process, and road test expectations.
G Licence (Road Test)
In Ontario, the G test is the second of two road tests that new drivers must complete as part of a 20-month graduated licensing process. It’s the final step towards getting your full driver’s licence: after passing the G test (sometimes called the Level 2 or G2 road test), drivers have full Class G driving privileges. According to drivetest.ca, it takes between 20 and 24 months to go through Ontario’s entire graduated licensing process.
Pre-requisites for the G Road Test:
- Eligibility: Hold a valid G2 licence for at least 12 months (or 8 months with driver’s training).
- Road Test: Pass the G road test, which evaluates advanced driving skills.
- Road Test: The test includes more complex driving situations, such as city traffic, highway driving, and various parking maneuvers.
- Full Driving Rights: You obtain full G driving rights once you pass.
- Complete and sign a “Declaration of Highway Driving Experience” form
- Bring your valid G2 driver’s licence along for your test
What is the Declaration of Highway Driving Experience?
You must complete a Declaration of Highway Driving Experience to ensure sufficient expressway driving experience. The form will require you to indicate how many times in the past three months before the test you have driven on a highway with a speed limit of at least 80 km/hr and the length of these trips. If you do not have sufficient highway driving experience, the examiner must declare the road test “out-of-order” and cancel it. You will lose 50% of your prepaid road-test fee.
How to prepare for your Ontario driving test
When you arrive for your G road test, you’ll want to be confident, well-practiced, and relaxed, and you’ll be driving a vehicle in good shape with functioning lights, turn signals, seatbelts, and a windshield free of significant damage. If the speedometer or horn aren’t functional, your tires are in poor shape, or the vehicle leaks any visible fluid, your road test may be canceled. Ditto if it’s got a flat tire or heavy damage. The gist? Ensure your vehicle is in tip-top shape before arriving to avoid surprises. Is there enough gas in the tank? Do you have your current driver’s licence with you? Do you have any prescription eyewear required to drive?
You can find the complete list of road test vehicle requirements here.
Arrive for your test at least a half-hour early and head inside to check in. Just be sure to leave your pets at home, as they’re not allowed in the car during a road test, nor are friends, relatives, or translators.
When is the best time to book a G test?
If you’re tempted to book in the morning or evening, you may face rush hour traffic. Aim to book between 10:00 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. Saturdays may also have traffic congestion depending on the area you test in.
What do you need to book your G licence test?
Class G is the second of two road tests you must pass to become fully licensed. You can book it once you have been a G2 driver for 12 months. Booking the G assessment is the same process as booking your G2. You will need:
- Your driver’s licence number
- A preferred location
- Know the time and date you want to book
How long does it take to get your G licence in Ontario?
It takes anywhere from 20 months to five years. From when you pass your G1 test, you’ll need to wait 12 months until you can take your G2 test (eight months if you take an approved driving course). Then, you’ll need to wait an additional 12 months from when you pass your G2 test until you can take your G test. If you don’t get your G licence within five years after passing the G1 test, you’ll have to start all over.
Does the DriveTest center rent vehicles for the G road test?
No. You must supply the vehicle for your road test. If you do not have one, you can borrow or rent one, or you can request to use your driving instructor’s vehicle for the assessment. We recommend a car you are familiar with or drive frequently.
Do you have to parallel park for your G test?
Yes. You will need to show the ability to parallel park your vehicle.
Can I speed up the process to get my G licence faster?
You must have your G2 licence for 12 months. Unlike the G2 test, the entire G licence test can’t be fast-tracked. After 12 months, you can take the G-road exam any time. However, you must take the assessment before it expires within five years.
How do I cancel my G road test in Ontario?
A refund can’t be offered once you’ve booked the road test appointment you requested. You must cancel or reschedule your appointment through your account at DriveTest or by calling DriveTest at 647-776-0331 (if you’re in the GTA) or 1-888-570-6110. You can also do so in person at any DriveTest center. To avoid any cancellation fees, cancel at least 48 hours before your appointment time.
How many mistakes are you allowed on your G test in Ontario?
This is a tricky question since your road test examiner uses a point-based system to evaluate your driving performance. You’ll need to achieve a minimum score of 80 percent to pass your test – though a serious infraction can result in immediate failure, regardless of your score. For instance, failing to check your blind spot, failing to signal, or merging poorly can result in negative points, and the count racks up further if mistakes are repeated. Even with no minor errors, a driver may immediately fail their test for making a grave mistake – like failing to pull over for an emergency vehicle or running a red light.
I failed my G test, and my licence has expired. Now what?
Don’t worry – it’s estimated that at least one-third of drivers fail on their first attempt. If you fail your G road test and allow your driver’s licence to expire, you must restart the graduated licensing process. This means retaking the knowledge exam and starting with a G1 licence.
How many times can you fail your G test?
There is no limit to how many times you can take the test. If you fail, you will have to wait 10 days to retest. However, the time between each attempt may be longer due to appointment availability.
How much does it cost to retake the G test?
The same fee applies for the first and all subsequent attempts. The fee is $91.25.
What happens after you pass your G road test?
After the test, the examiner will give you a brief summary of your driving skills. You can just request a paper copy of your score sheet. You will receive a temporary Ontario driver’s licence if you pass. This is valid for 90 days or until you receive your new G driver’s licence in the mail.
Are there any restrictions with a G licence?
Yes and no. A G licence allows you to drive most cars, light pickup trucks, and vans. The only restrictions are the types of vehicles you may drive and the use of substances. If you’re 21 years old or younger, you must have a zero-blood alcohol level when driving, and there’s a zero-tolerance level for cannabis. If you are over the age of 21, you are allowed a Blood Alcohol Concentration of 0.08 or less as the legal limit.
How does having a full G licence affect my auto insurance?
Your insurance rate will reflect your experience and driving record even as a fully licensed driver. Having obtained your G licence, you are expected to have advanced driving knowledge and more understanding on the road, lowering your risk of getting into a collision. If you’re collision and ticket-free when you obtain your G licence, your auto insurance premium will be cheaper than when you only had a G2 licence. However, you’re still considered higher risk until you’re 25. If you’re under a parent’s policy as a driver of their vehicle, their insurance costs will go up significantly.
Does your G licence expire?
Yes, your G licence will expire after five years. You must pay the $90 fee to renew it.
How do I renew a G licence in Ontario?
All G licence holders can renew their licence up to 180 days before expiration. You can renew your G-licence at a ServiceOntario nearest you, by mail or online. Licensing renewal payments may be made by credit card (MasterCard, Visa, or Interac).
At isure, we want to support new drivers in every way possible. If you are ready to take your road test or just beginning your research about getting your licence, we’re here to help. Contact one of our isure representatives should you have any G licence questions. Be sure to let us know once you have passed! We can take you through all your insurance options to get you on the road quickly and thoroughly insured.
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