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UPDATED
October 16, 2025
Getting your G1 license in Ontario starts with passing a written knowledge test. If you're searching for ways to prepare, you're not alone. Thousands of new drivers every year look for practice tests and study materials to help them succeed on their first attempt.
The G1 test evaluates your knowledge of Ontario traffic signs, road rules, and safe driving practices. Understanding what to expect and how to prepare can make the difference between passing and failing.
The official G1 test in Ontario consists of 40 multiple-choice questions split into two sections. You need to answer at least 16 out of 20 questions correctly in each section to pass.
Section One: Traffic Signs (20 questions) This section tests your ability to recognize and understand road signs, signals, and pavement markings used throughout Ontario. You'll see images of signs and need to identify their meanings.
Section Two: Rules of the Road (20 questions) The second section covers traffic laws, safe driving practices, right-of-way rules, speed limits, and other regulations from the Ontario Driver's Handbook.
You must pass both sections in the same sitting. If you fail one section, you'll need to retake both parts when you try again.
Practice tests help you become familiar with the question format and identify knowledge gaps before taking the official exam. Here's what works:
Study the Official Materials The Ontario Driver's Handbook is the primary source for all test questions. Everything on the G1 test comes directly from this handbook. Read it cover to cover, paying close attention to traffic signs, right-of-way rules, and speed limits in different zones.
Take Multiple Practice Tests Repetition builds confidence and helps information stick. When you practice answering questions in the same format as the real test, you'll feel more comfortable on test day. Focus on areas where you consistently make mistakes.
Learn From Your Errors Every wrong answer is a learning opportunity. When you miss a question, go back to the handbook and read the relevant section. Understanding why an answer is correct matters more than memorizing facts.
Focus on Traffic Signs Many test-takers struggle with the signs section. Spend extra time studying regulatory signs (like stop and yield), warning signs (like curve ahead), and information signs (like hospital or rest area). Pay attention to sign shapes and colors, as they provide clues about meaning.
Speed Limits in Ontario Know the default speed limits: 50 km/h in cities and towns, 80 km/h on highways outside cities, and 100 km/h on freeways. School zones and playground areas have reduced limits of 40 km/h when children are present.
Right-of-Way Rules Understand who goes first at intersections, four-way stops, and uncontrolled crossings. Pedestrians always have the right-of-way at marked crosswalks. At four-way stops, the first vehicle to arrive goes first.
Following Distance Maintain at least two seconds of following distance in good conditions. Increase this to four seconds in rain and up to eight seconds in snow or ice.
Blood Alcohol Limits Ontario has zero tolerance for drivers under 21 and new drivers with G1 or G2 licenses. Any detectable alcohol in your system results in immediate penalties.
Parking Regulations Know where parking is prohibited: within three meters of a fire hydrant, on sidewalks, in front of driveways, and within nine meters of an intersection.
The G1 test takes place at DriveTest centers across Ontario. You'll need to bring two pieces of identification, pass a vision test, and pay the required fee. The written test is completed on a computer touchscreen.
Before You Arrive Book your test appointment online or by phone. Arrive 30 minutes early to complete paperwork. Bring your glasses or contact lenses if you wear them for the vision screening.
During the Test You'll sit at a computer station and answer questions by touching the screen. Take your time and read each question carefully. You can flag questions to review before submitting your answers.
If You Pass You'll receive your G1 license immediately and can start practicing driving with a fully licensed driver in the passenger seat. Your G1 comes with restrictions: no driving on 400-series highways or between midnight and 5 a.m., and zero blood alcohol content.
If You Don't Pass You can retake the test, but you'll need to wait and pay the fee again. Use the experience to identify weak areas and study those topics before your next attempt.
Start Studying Early Give yourself at least two weeks to prepare. Cramming the night before rarely works. Space out your study sessions to retain more information.
Test Your Knowledge Regularly Quiz yourself on traffic signs, speed limits, and road rules. Ask family members to test you. The more you recall information from memory, the better you'll remember it.
Get Enough Sleep Arrive at the test center well-rested. Fatigue affects concentration and decision-making. A good night's sleep helps you think clearly and avoid careless mistakes.
Read Questions Twice Test anxiety can cause you to misread questions. Take a breath, read carefully, and make sure you understand what's being asked before selecting an answer.
Don't Second-Guess Yourself Your first instinct is usually correct. Changing answers without good reason often leads to mistakes. Trust your preparation.
Skipping the Handbook Some people rely only on practice tests without reading the official handbook. This creates knowledge gaps. The handbook contains details and context that practice questions alone can't provide.
Memorizing Without Understanding Knowing the right answer isn't enough. You need to understand the reasoning behind traffic rules. This helps you apply knowledge to different question formats.
Ignoring Road Signs The signs section trips up many test-takers. Don't just glance at sign images in the handbook. Study them carefully and test yourself on their meanings.
Rushing Through the Test You have plenty of time to complete 40 questions. Slow down, read carefully, and think through each answer. Speed leads to careless errors.
Passing the G1 test is just the beginning. Your G1 license allows you to practice driving with certain restrictions. You must wait 12 months (or 8 months if you complete an approved driving course) before taking the G2 road test.
Use this time to build real-world driving experience. Practice in different weather conditions, at various times of day, and on different types of roads. The more comfortable you become behind the wheel, the better prepared you'll be for your G2 test.
Visit G1 Ready CA to access more study materials and resources for your Ontario driving test preparation.
Ontario Driver's Handbook Available free online from the Ontario government website. This is your primary study resource.
Practice Question Banks Work through multiple sets of practice questions covering all test topics. Variety helps you see different question formats.
Road Sign Guides Visual reference guides showing all Ontario traffic signs with explanations. Print these out and quiz yourself regularly.
Study Groups Connect with other people preparing for their G1 test. Explaining concepts to others reinforces your own understanding.
Ready to start your journey to getting a driver's license? Use G1 Ready CA and access comprehensive practice materials designed to help you pass your G1 test on the first try.
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