Here’s All You Need to Know Before Getting Your G1

In Ontario, there is a whopping total of 12 different classes of license. Each license permits an individual to drive a different kind of vehicle. The class of license that you hold must match the kind of vehicle that you are looking to drive, and a Class G license is the baseline for being able to obtain a license for any other vehicle (with the exception of motorcycles, as you can obtain a motorcycle license, or Class M, without first acquiring a Class G license.) In order to obtain the necessary licenses, you’ll need to demonstrate you have the knowledge and skills to operate the respective class of vehicles.

The Class G1 License, or Level One of graduated licensing, allows those who hold the license to drive Class G vehicles alongside a fully licensed driver (a driver who has at least four years of driving experience.) There is no road examination for the G1 license, but there is a written exam. For many, getting their G1 License is the first step to freedom. Unfortunately, it isn’t always easy.

Here’s all you need to know before you get your G1 license.

What is the G1 examination?

The test you will need to take to obtain your G1 license is not a road test, but a written test. The G2 license will have you take a road test, also referred to as the “G1 exit exam.” You’ll be able to write your G1 knowledge examination at any DriveTest location throughout Ontario, so long as you plan your visit to be during normal business hours. Be sure to check ahead, as some locations may be open on Saturdays. The examination can be tough for some people who are wholly unused to the world of driving, but it really depends on how long you spend preparing.

Our advice? Read the MTO handbook beforehand to have a good understanding of the content. Take your time, practice, and do some quizzes with a parent or a licensed driver to be sure you really have a proper understanding of the material and can easily avoid some of the most common driving mistakes!

What’s the best way to study for the G1 written test?

Read the driver’s handbook. Seriously – we can’t push this enough. The G1 written test is segmented into different sections of the handbook, rewritten in question-and-answer format. Once you believe you have a solid grasp of road rules/traffic signs, you can check out one of several dozen online practice tests to gauge your understanding of driving. They won’t be the exact same as the test you’ll take, but they’ll give you a decent grasp of what to expect.

You can find the G1 exam book from a variety of different sources, including DriveTest centres, local retail stores, ServiceOntario centres, and the Drivers Handbook Online.

The G1 exit test, or the G2 road test, is an entirely different beast. Remember – for that, you’ll need to practice dozens of on-road skills. During this time, it’s not a bad idea to take a defensive driving course or enlist the help of a fully licensed driver, like a parent, guardian, or friend!

Where do I take the G1 written test?

You can take the G1 written test at any in-person DriveTest location. You cannot take an online test, unfortunately, even in this age of digitization and remote working.

To find a G1 test centre, you can Google DriveTest or visit the DriveTest website to find the closest location to yourself.

You won’t need to make an appointment to do the written G1 test. You should, however, arrive as early as possible to the DriveTest location to allow yourself enough time to finish the exam. There’s a chance you’ll have to wait in line. Remember, you’ll need to provide valid proof of identification, do an eye test, and pay any necessary fees. To note, the G1 test costs $159.75, and the cost of your G1 license is included in this package.

Can you renew a G1 license?

If you take the G1 test, pass, and hold a G1 license until it expires, unfortunately you cannot renew your G1 license and must repeat the knowledge and vision exam to obtain your license again.

Am I required to carry insurance for my G1 examination?

No, you do not need to provide proof of insurance for your G1 examination, note that all vehicles must have adequate insurance coverage. In order to insure a vehicle, you must carry a G2 license – so a G1 driver couldn’t even insure a vehicle in the first place. A G1 driver will need to be accompanied by a fully licensed and insured G driver to operate a vehicle.

Remember that as a G1 driver, you cannot, under any circumstances, operate a vehicle alone. You could face a 30-day suspension of your license and a $110 ticket if you are caught operating a vehicle solo. While you are a G1 driver, you have time restrictions on your license and cannot drive between the hours of 12am and 5am.

For more information about G1 drivers, licensing, auto insurance, and available auto insurance discounts, give an Excalibur Defender a call. We’d be happy to straighten some things out for you and answer any questions you may have.