Ontario G1 licence
Getting your G1 license is a milestone moment for many. It is also the first step in the Ontario driver’s licensing system.
The G1 is the beginner’s or learner’s permit. It is the first of three classes to complete the graduated licensing system. G1 drivers have many driving restrictions. These restrictions and rules are in place to help reduce risk and accidents. It helps new drivers learn how to drive in a more controlled environment.
How to get a G1 license in Ontario
Getting your G1 license opens up a world of possibilities and a whole new set of responsibilities. Before you become a fully licensed driver, you need to start the journey with your G1. Here’s a summary of the steps drivers need to complete :
- Get the driver’s handbook: Pick up the handbook online or at a DriveTest location.
- Study for the knowledge test: Read through the driver’s handbook multiple times. Take some online G1 practice tests. When you are ready, plan to take the test.
- Write and pass the knowledge test: Visit a local DriveTest location to write the knowledge test.
- Pay the G1 license package fee: Pays the fees associated with getting your G1.
- Congrats, you’re a G1 Driver!
How long does it take to complete your G1?
Although you passed your written test, there is some time for G1 holders to wait before moving on to the next step. The minimum practice period for G1 drivers before they can take the road test is :
- 8 months with driver’s training: You can move more quickly through the G licensing system if you take driver’s ed from MTO-approved driving schools. By taking driver training through one of these schools, you’re eligible to take the G1 road test just eight months after you passed your written test.
- 12 months without driver’s training: You are not eligible to take the G1 road test until 12 months after you have passed your written test unless you have taken an approved driving course.
How do you apply for a G1 Ontario driver’s license?
Applying for a license is quite straightforward once you are of age to start learning. Most of the booking can be done online or at the DriveTest center. There are three conditions all drivers must meet to apply, including :
- Be at least 16.
- Pass an eye exam.
- Pass a written assessment about the rules of the road and traffic signs.
G1 rules and restrictions
As a new driver, there are certain G1 road rules you must abide by. G1 rules are in place to help new drivers learn how to drive safely and effectively. The following G1 restrictions apply :
- Must be accompanied by a full G licensed driver: You can only drive when you have an experienced G driver in the passenger seat. Accompanying drivers must have a full G for at least 4 years. They must have an alcohol level of less than 0.05% if over 21. If under 21 they must have zero blood alcohol level.
- Zero alcohol: As the driver, you must have a zero blood alcohol level at all times.
- No cannabis: You cannot have a drive with cannabis in your system. No exceptions.
- Must be of age: You must be at least 16 years old to obtain your G1 permit.
- Seatbelts: All passengers must wear properly working seatbelts.
- No driving between 12 am – 5 am: As a G1 driver, you cannot drive between midnight and 5 am.
- No driving on 400 highways: As a G1 driver, you cannot drive on 400-series highways or expressways including The Gardiner Expressway, Don Valley Parkway, and The Queen Elizabeth Way (QEW).
- Vehicles: You can only drive G-class vehicles – cars, vans, and small trucks.
What if I break the G1 rules?
You are subject to the rules of the road just like any other driver. If you violate the conditions of your G1, you will be held accountable :
- Traffic ticket: You are subject to the same Ontario traffic ticket fines and penalties as fully licensed drivers.
- Demerit points: You are subject to demerit points in Ontario. However, as a new driver, you have 9 before you face a license suspension.
- License suspension: You could face a driver’s license suspension if you violate G1 conditions. This includes having too many demerit points, or a serious traffic violation.
- Increased insurance costs: Breaking G1 rules can also impact your car insurance quote. Insurers take into account your driving record and history from day one.
Can you get insurance with a G1 license?
But, any vehicle a G1 license holder drives, must be insured. If you drive your parent’s or guardians’ vehicle, they will need to notify their provider.
You can get insurance with a G1. You need a parent or guardian (G2 minimum) to be the primary driver on your policy as an occasional driver. Even if they own the vehicle, a G1 driver cannot be the primary driver on a policy.
Ontario G2 licence
Getting your G2 is your first chance to drive solo. Passing the exit road test allows you to drive without an accompanying driver. It is the second step in the process. Getting your G2 gives you a sense of freedom. It’s the first time you will be able to drive alone, and you’ll have fewer driving restrictions. You can also get your own policy and start the process of buying or leasing a vehicle.
G2 license rules and restrictions
Once you have completed a government-approved driver education program and passed your G2 driving test, you are permitted to drive independently on any Ontario highway or roadway at any time. However, there are still rules and restrictions you must obey.
What Are the G2 restrictions in Ontario?
- 12-month practice period: You may practice with your G2 license for 12 months, without the need for another experienced driver in the vehicle, on any Ontario roads, at any time.
- Zero blood alcohol and cannabis: You must maintain a zero blood alcohol level and have zero cannabis in your system.
- All passengers must wear seatbelts: You must carry only as many passengers as there are working seatbelts.
What are the G2 restrictions for drivers 19 and under?
If you are 19 years of age and under a G2, you are subject to additional restrictions. These apply to when you can drive and the number of passengers :
- Night driving restrictions for the first 6 months: You must drive for the first six months with only one passenger who is 19 or under between midnight and 5 AM.
- Night driving restrictions after 6 months: You may drive after the first six months with up to three passengers 19 or under between midnight and 5 AM.
- Night driving restrictions exceptions: These conditions do not apply if you have a fully licensed driver in the car (with at least four years of driving experience) or if your passengers are all immediate family members such as a parent, brother, or sister.
What happens if I violate the G2 restrictions?
Violating traffic laws and rules of your license can lead to a variety of consequences depending on the fraction. These convictions can have a negative impact on your policy. If you violate your G2 restrictions you are subject to :
- Suspension: Violating G2 restrictions could result in a 30-day license suspension for your first offense, 90 days for your second, and your license being revoked after the third.
- Demerit points: You will receive demerit points for traffic convictions and violations.
- Traffic convictions and fines: Traffic ticket fines range from $50 to $500 or more.
- Increased premiums: A violation or traffic ticket can cause an increase in your insurance.
If you violate any of the zero-tolerance conditions for cannabis or alcohol, here’s what will happen immediately :
- Roadside suspension: Licence will immediately be suspended for 3 days on the first offense, 7 days on the second, and 30 days on the third.
- Driving home: You will not be allowed to drive home, if you have a sober passenger who has a license, they will need to drive back. Or you will have to leave your car at the roadside. Another option is for the police to have your vehicle towed and impounded at your expense.
- Fines: If it is your first offense it will cost $250, the second $350, and the third will cost $450.
Can you drive on the highway with A G2?
There are no G2 restrictions for highway driving. With a G2, you can drive on any highway. This includes 400 series highways, 407, QEW, and two-lane highways in the province.
Does a G2 driver need insurance?
Yes. You must be on the policy of the vehicle you drive. If you live at home with your parents, they must notify their insurer. Even if you don’t drive the vehicle regularly, you must be included as an occasional driver.
Full Ontario G license
The G license is the final step in the graduated licensing process – you can get it 12 months from the day you get your G2.
Getting a full license removes most driving restrictions and allows you to drive on all roads at any time. It also provides you with a sense of relief. The process is complete. You have no more road tests to worry about, and you’ll pay less for auto insurance.
How to get a G license
Getting your G license can bring a sense of freedom and relief. You still need to apply everything you learned up to this point to remain a safe and effective driver.
- Don’t develop bad habits: It’s common for new G license drivers to relax once they get their license. This can lead to the development of bad habits.
- Avoid distractions: We all know distracted driving in Ontario is a huge road safety issue. Avoid distractions and avoid being part of the problem.
- Don’t drive if you’ve been drinking: The laws for alcohol and cannabis consumption have changed recently. Make sure you abide by all impaired driving laws.
How much does a G license cost?
A G driver’s license costs $90, which is different than the costs for the G road test. One G road test attempt is $91.25, and that does not include the cost of a driver’s education. Costs are subject to change.
What are G license rules and restrictions?
G license restrictions in Ontario limit the type of vehicles you can drive and the amount of blood alcohol concentration you can have. Here are other restrictions you should be aware of as a G driver, such as :
- Vehicle limitations: You can only drive G-class vehicles.
- BAC: Drivers cannot have a blood alcohol concentration of more than 80mg. Drivers with 50mg-80mg in their system are in the warn range. You could receive administrative penalties such as a roadside suspension or an immediate roadside prohibition.
- 21 years old or younger: Zero BAC if you have a G driver’s license and are 21 years old or younger.
Source: https://www.thinkinsure.ca/insurance-help-centre/ontario-graduated-g-g1-g2-licence-system-guide.html
