When I arrived in Canada back in 2021, on February 19, I made a mistake by not applying for my Ontario driver’s license exam right away. I took my first knowledge test (G1) in November 2021. Since I had no driving experience, I had to wait another year to take my practical test (G2), and I finally obtained my full G license in mid-May 2024. I consider it a mistake not to have applied immediately after landing because I was unable to register for an Uber passenger account (Regret sign! ), which requires three years of driving experience. That’s why I am writing this blog—to share the complete process for obtaining an Ontario license and the steps you should follow. Official website link: official-mto-drivers-handbook/getting-your-drivers-licence

Steps to Getting an Ontario Driving License—Driving in Ontario

Determine eligibility:
To qualify, you must be at least 16 years old and provide identification verifying your identity and residency in Ontario.

G1 License (Class G1):
Knowledge Test: First, you need to pass a written test on road rules and traffic signs, rules of the road. You can prepare by using the Ontario Driver’s Handbook, available online or at ServiceOntario centers.

Application: Visit a ServiceOntario center to take the knowledge test. Be sure to bring the necessary documents (proof of identity and residency) and pay the fee (approximately $158 for the G1 test and license). Once you pass, you will receive your G1 license.

G1 Licensing Restrictions:
With a G1 license, you must drive with a fully licensed driver (G class) who has at least four years of driving experience sitting in the passenger seat. There are also restrictions on driving at night and on certain high-speed roads.

G2 License (Class G2):
Wait Period: You need to hold your G1 license for a minimum of 12 months (or 8 months if you complete a government-approved driver education course).

G2 Road Test: After the waiting period, you can schedule a road test to obtain your G2 license. This test will assess your driving skills in various conditions.

Booking the Test: You can book your test online via the DriveTest website (https://drivetest.ca/) or by phone. Make sure to have your G1 license number and pay the fee (around $53.75 for the G2 test).

G License (Full License):
G2 Waiting Period: You must hold your G2 license for at least 12 months before you can take the G road test. After you pass the G driving test, a 5-year validity license will be issued from the Ministry of Transportation, and it will be mailed out to your provided address.

G Road Test: Similar to the G2 test, this assessment evaluates your driving abilities, particularly focusing on highway driving and advanced maneuvers.

Additional Tips

• Driver Training: Since you don’t have anyone to help you, think about signing up for a licensed driving school. They can offer professional lessons and assist you in completing the required practice driving hours.
• Practice Driving: If possible, practice driving with a licensed instructor or through a driving school, as this is particularly helpful in preparing for your G2 and G tests.
• Booking Tests: Be sure to schedule your tests well in advance, since wait times can differ.
• Documentation: Always keep your identification and any necessary documents readily available when attending your tests.

Resources

• The Ontario Driver’s Handbook can be accessed online free of charge. For scheduling tests and finding more information, visit the DriveTest website. ServiceOntario is where you can apply for and receive your initial G1 license.

By following these steps and utilizing the available resources, you can successfully obtain your driver’s license in Ontario. Good luck! If you need more information or want to explore further, please read the rest of the blog for additional insights.

Understanding the Requirements

Before beginning the application process for an Ontario driver’s license, it’s essential to review the requirements. To obtain your Ontario driver’s license, you need to:

Be of Legal Age: In accordance with Ontario laws, you must be at least 16 years old to qualify for a G1 license.

Provide Identification: Please bring a valid form of identification, such as a birth certificate or passport, to your appointment.

Pass a Vision Test: You need to demonstrate proper vision by passing a vision test, such as a Snellen chart test for clarity.

Pass a Written Test: You should complete a written examination that assesses your knowledge of traffic signs, road rules, and regulations.

Acceptable Identity Documents

You have to show proof of your:

• Legal name
• Date of birth, including day, month, and year of birth

You must use original documents, not photocopies. The documents must be valid, not expired.

Here are some acceptable identity documents. You can show 1 of these documents to meet the requirements:

Canadian Citizens

• Passport (Canadian or foreign)
• Canadian Citizenship Card with photo
• Ontario Photo Card

Permanent Residents

• Permanent Resident (PR) Card
• Record of Landing (IMM 1000)
• Confirmation of Permanent Residence (IMM 5292)
• Ontario Photo Card

Temporary Residents

• Study Permit / Student Authorization (IMM 1442)
• Work Permit / Employment Authorization (IMM 1442)
• Visitor Record (IMM 1442)
• Temporary Resident Permit (IMM 1442)
• Refugee Status Claim (IMM 1434)
• Acknowledgement of Intent to Claim Refugee Status (IMM 7703) with photo
• Report Under the Immigration Act (IMM 1442) with a photo
• Ontario Photo Card

If you don’t have one of these documents, you will be required to show 2 documents; see a complete list of documents that you can use.

Fees

You must pay a fee to apply for a license and take the knowledge test. The list of fees is available.

What Is In The Test?

To pass the test, there are some requirements and hurdles that need to be passed. The tests include:

Knowledge Test

Getting your driver’s license is an exciting journey filled with several important steps, and one of the key moments along the way is the knowledge test! This fun quiz features multiple-choice questions designed to see how well you can handle a vehicle. You’ll also get to show off your knowledge about traffic signs and road rules. A great way to prepare is by diving into the driver’s handbook—it’s your best buddy for taking that test! To successfully pass this test, you can read this helpful book. Good Luck! Drivers-Handbook-Study-Guide-Ontario-Canada.pdf 

Road Test

The road test is a fun way to show off your driving skills! During the test, a friendly driving instructor will evaluate how well you can handle a vehicle. One of the key skills you might need to demonstrate is parallel parking, so be ready to show that off! Plus, you might be asked to start and stop the car too. It’s a great idea to practice as much as you can before the big day. Good luck, and enjoy the experience!

Vehicle Safety Check

In some situations, your instructor might have questions about the vehicle safety check. You could be asked about various car components and their functions. It’s a great idea to familiarize yourself with these components and get ready in advance!

Classification Chart For Driving In Ontario

To give an overview, a classification chart is given below:

• Class A: For tractor-trailer combinations, can also drive Class D and Class G

• Class B: For school buses, can also drive Class C, D, E, F and G

• Class C: For regular buses, can also drive Class D, F and G

• Class D: For automobiles exceeding 11 kg gross weight, they can also drive Class G

• Class E: For tractor-trailer combinations, can also drive Class D and Class G

• Class F: For any school bus having 24 passenger capacity, you can also drive Class F and G.

• Class G1: Drivers can drive but with a licensed driver and are subject to certain conditions

• Class G2:  Drivers can drive without a licensed driver but are still subjected to certain conditions

Obtaining A Valid foreign Driver’s Licence for Foreigners

It’s also easy for foreigners to get an international driver’s permit. There are some requirements as well. The basic requirement is passing the knowledge and the road test. Also, the driver’s handbook is best if you want to pass the test. For foreigners, you need to demonstrate the following documents:

• You need to provide acceptable identification proof
• You need to have a valid driver’s license
• A minimum of 12 years of experience is a must.
• Candidates also need to show letters of authentication. This is mandatory if you want to claim more than 12 months of previous driving experience.

Benefits of Getting A License

Following are some of the benefits of getting a license if you are driving in Ontario:

• Increased Confidence
• Independence, flexibility and convenience
• Personal Growth
• Legal eligibility
• Increased safety and protection
• Lower insurance rates