When you turn 16, there is nothing more exciting than getting your G1 licence. It’s the first step in getting behind the wheel of a car and arguably, one of the most exciting milestones as a teenager. Many families with teenagers will be discussing driving courses and tests. Obtaining a driver’s licence for many is a right of passage. However, there are several steps you must complete to obtain your full G licence, starting with your G1. Below is a full G1 test checklist, including how to apply, how much it will cost, where to take it, and tips to help you pass with flying colours.
What is the G1 test?
The G1 test is the first step in obtaining your full G licence. You must pass your G1 test in order to obtain your G1 licence. This is a written knowledge-based exam in Ontario that covers traffic signs and the laws of the road. It’s the first of three tests you’ll need to pass in order to complete the graduated licensing process. It is the only written test you’ll have to take, as in-vehicle road examinations make up the final two evaluations.
Generally, the G1 test is quite simple to take. However, it is absolutely crucial when it comes to becoming knowledgeable of the road. During the test, you’ll learn basic maneuvering of the vehicle, basic laws, and the meaning behind the signs you’ll see every day on the road!
G1 test rules and requirements
In order to qualify to take the G1 test, you must first pass a basic eye exam, as well as be 16 years of age. Additionally, there are going to be a handful of documents that you will need to bring with you to your G1 test. Make sure you have your identity documents with your legal name, date of birth, and signature before going to the driving test centre. This includes:
- A passport
- Canadian citizenship card
- Permanent resident card
- Record of landing
- Proof of residence
- Any immigration papers
If you are looking for the full details about the proper documents, you can find them here. Remember to keep this G1 test checklist handy in time for your test!
Is the test book necessary?
To help prepare yourself for the exam, you can study for your G1 written test by using Ontario’s Official Driver Handbook. This book is crucial when it comes to being prepared for your test. It’s also a right of passage for Ontario drivers! It is a book that everyone recognizes if they have gotten their licence within the past 15 years or so.
The handbook will explain the various rules and signs which will help make you more confident reading signs and being with other drivers on the road. The official handbook will cost $16.
You can get the G1 test book from a number of locations:
- DriveTest centre
- ServiceOntario centre
- Local retail stores
- Drivers Handbook online
What you should know about the G1 test
After you have met the requirements to register and obtain the Drivers Handbook, you are ready to start studying for your test. It’s a good idea to take the practice tests as part of your studying routine. This way, you can check whether or not you are ready for the official G1 test. It will also help you prepare for the questions and answers that you should memorize. Re-taking the practice test will build up your confidence. It is $159.75 to take the G1 test, and the cost of obtaining the Class G1 licence is already included in the package. There are several places online where you can practice the test, such as passemall.com. It is important to note that if you take a Beginner Driver Education course, your wait time to take the test can drop from 12 to 8 months!
The format of writing the G1 test
The G1 exam has 40 multiple-choice questions. Depending on how prepared you are, it can take 20 to 30 minutes to complete. It contains two portions that are as follows:
- Road signs (20 questions): These will test your knowledge of over 70 traffic signals and lights.
- Rules of the road (20 questions): These will test your knowledge of traffic laws. On Ontario roadways, there are over 90 common driving rules to be aware of.
To pass the written knowledge assessment, you must properly answer at least 16 questions in each area. A total score of at least 80 percent is required to pass. For a long time, your G1 test was generally done on paper. However, as of late, many places have been implementing computer-based tests. It’s accessible in over 24 languages, including English and French, and will be graded immediately. Be sure that you understand the demerit point system, as well.
Where can you take the test?
Your written G1 exam may be taken at a DriveTest Centre near you. To take the exam, you do not need to make an appointment. However, you should arrive early and allow enough time to complete the exam. You may need to wait in line to take it, and you will also need to complete a G1 eye test, show proof of identification, and pay the associated fees.
6 tips to help you pass your G1 test
To ensure that you are well-prepared to take your G1 written test, we’ve included some tips to assist you:
1. Study, study, and then study some more
Give yourself ample time to absorb the information in the handbook. Examine the driving laws and make certain you understand them. Ask an experienced driver or contact the driving office for clarification if you have any questions concerning the handbook. We know how much anticipation comes with studying for your G1 test. So, making sure you study sufficiently in order to pass on your first try will be a huge feeling of accomplishment.
2. Take G1 practice tests
Take a range of practice tests to get a feel for the different types of questions. This will boost your confidence! Many of the questions will be the same as the practice tests. One example can be found here.
3. Get a good night’s sleep
The night before your test, go to bed early and attempt to get a decent night’s sleep. Read the driver’s handbook one last time and think about the questions you’re likely to face.
4. Don’t rush! Give yourself plenty of time
When exam day arrives, you don’t want to rush. Set your alarm for earlier than you think you’ll need to get to the testing center and allow at least 30 minutes to get there.
5. Read the questions carefully
Don’t worry about the time restriction. If you are not sure of an answer, make a note on the paper to come back to it and move on. Before you submit it to be graded, double-check your answers. It is important to remember to read each question at least twice all the way through before attempting to answer. It is always possible to misread something the first time through.
6. Remember, you can take it again
Don’t put too much pressure on yourself! Sometimes going through the test once helps better prepare you to feel relaxed and confident the next time, as there will be no mystery or surprises.
Passing your G1 test
If you pass your written G1 test, you will get a G1 licence and move on to preparing for your G2 licence road test. It is important to know that your tests get graded immediately, so you will know the outcome before you leave the testing centre. Any new driver has to have a G1 licence for at least eight to 12 months before they can take the road test, which will get you your G2 licence. To speed up the process, we suggest taking driving school lessons to gain experience!
What happens if I fail the G1 test?
If you fail the G1 knowledge test, you can retake it. The retake cost is $16.00, and your results are valid for one year. It’s advantageous to retake the exam within this timeframe. In Ontario, failure rates for the G1 written test are somewhere in the range of 50–75%. Remember to complete as many practice tests online as you can.
This is the first step towards obtaining your driver’s licence and your first taste of independence. Be sure you speak with one of our isure representatives to discuss car insurance options for the new driver in your family. Contact us or request a quote today!
