If you’re aiming to get your driver’s license in Toronto, you’ve probably heard about the G1, G2 and G licenses. As you probably know, the G1 road test is a written knowledge test you need to pass to get your G1 license.
This can be tricky to figure out the differences between G and G2 Ontario driving tests and what each one means. In this post, we’ll clear up the confusion and explain the key differences between the G2 and G licenses.
What is a G2 License in Ontario?
A G2 license in Ontario is a big step on your journey to becoming a fully licensed driver. It’s the second stage in Ontario’s graduated licensing system, which is all about helping new drivers build up the skills and confidence needed on the road.
With a G2 license, you can drive on your own without needing someone with a full license in the car with you. To get this license, you first need to pass the G1 road test. Plus, you must have held your G1 license for at least 12 months (or just 8 months if you’ve completed an approved driver education course).
The G2 road test is all about making sure you can handle the basics of driving. You’ll be tested on things like turning, parking, changing lanes, and dealing with intersections.
Key Benefits of Holding a G2 License
Here’s why having a G2 license is a big deal:
Independence on the Road: With a G2 license, you can finally drive solo. This independence is your first real taste of freedom behind the wheel, allowing you to drive without a fully licensed passenger.
Access to All Roads: A G2 license lets you drive on any road in Ontario, including highways and expressways. You’ll be exposed to various driving conditions, from busy city streets to high-speed highways.
Zero Tolerance for Alcohol: As a G2 driver, you must maintain a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of zero while driving. This strict rule ensures that new drivers stay focused and safe.
Passenger Limits: For the first 6 months, you can have only one passenger under 19 years old in the car between midnight and 5 a.m. After six months, or if you turn 20, you can carry up to three passengers under 19 during these hours.
Seatbelt Requirements: Everyone in your vehicle must wear a seatbelt. This is a crucial safety rule that helps protect you and your passengers.
Progression to Full G License: You need to hold your G2 license for at least 12 months before you can take the G test. This period allows you to gain the experience needed to move on to a full G license.
What Does the Full G License Entail?
The G license is the final stage in Ontario’s graduated licensing system, granting you full driving privileges. To earn your G license, you must pass the G test, which evaluates more advanced driving skills, particularly on highways.
This test focuses on your ability to handle highway driving, including merging, lane changes, and navigating various road conditions. You’ll need to demonstrate safe driving practices, such as checking blind spots and adhering to speed limits.
Advantages of a Full G License
Here’s what you can expect with a Full G license:
Total Driving Freedom: With a Full G license, you can drive on any road in Ontario, including highways, without restrictions. This means you have complete freedom behind the wheel.
Lower Insurance Rates: Insurance companies often offer lower rates to Full G license holders, as they are considered more experienced and lower-risk drivers.
No Time-of-Day Restrictions: Unlike the G2 license, which restricts nighttime driving for younger drivers, a Full G license allows you to drive anytime, day or night, without limitations.
Unlimited Solo Driving: Full G license holders can drive solo under any conditions, without the need for supervision. You’re free to drive wherever, whenever.
No Vehicle Restrictions: With a Full G license, you can drive any vehicle within the G class (such as cars, vans, and small trucks) on any road, with no passenger or time-of-day restrictions.
Unlimited Passengers: As long as your vehicle has seatbelts for everyone, you can carry as many passengers as there are seats. No more worrying about passenger limits.
Seatbelt Responsibility: It’s your responsibility to ensure everyone in the car is wearing a seatbelt. Failure to do so can result in fines and demerit points.
Key Differences Between G2 and G Licenses
To make it even clearer, here’s a table showing the differences between G and G2 Ontario driving tests:
| Aspect | G2 License | G License |
| Driving Restrictions | Zero BAC, passenger limits, and nighttime driving restrictions for young drivers. | No restrictions on time, passengers, or highways. Novice drivers and those under 21 must maintain a zero BAC. |
| Test Duration | Approximately 20 minutes. | Approximately 30 to 40 minutes. |
| Test Location | Local roads and residential areas, sometimes including busy streets. | Highways, city streets, and various traffic situations. |
| Difficulty Level | Moderate, testing basic driving skills. | Higher, testing advanced driving skills under different conditions. |
| Retake Policy | Can be retaken after 10 days if failed, with additional fees. | Can be retaken after 10 days if failed, with additional fees. |
| Validity | Valid for 5 years from the date of passing the G1 test or until the G test is passed. | Valid for 5 years, with renewal required every 5 years. |
| Costs | Approximately $53.75 for the test; included in the G1 licensing package. | Approximately $91.25 for the test; included in the total cost of the G license. |
Final Thoughts
Navigating Ontario’s graduated licensing system may seem challenging, but understanding each stage is crucial for success. Whether you’re just starting with your G1 or aiming for your Full G license, knowing the key differences between G2 and G licenses will help you prepare and progress confidently.
Ready to take the next step? Explore our comprehensive practice resources, or book your road test today to get one step closer to earning your Ontario driver’s license.
FAQs
You must wait 12 months after obtaining your G1 license before you can take the G2 road test. This waiting period can be reduced to 8 months if you complete an MTO-approved driver education course.
If you fail the G road test, you must wait 10 days before you can retake it. Each attempt requires payment of the test fee again. Be sure to practice and prepare thoroughly before reattempting.
A Full G license is valid for 5 years. You’ll need to renew it every five years by paying the renewal fee and potentially completing a vision test.
Yes, a G license is recognized across Canada and in many other countries, allowing you to drive outside Ontario. However, you should check specific requirements for international driving if you plan to drive in another country.
If you miss your road test appointment without giving at least 48 hours’ notice, you will lose 50% of your test fee. You’ll need to reschedule and pay the fee again.
To take the G2 or G road test, bring your valid G1 or G2 license, a vehicle that meets safety standards, proof of insurance and vehicle registration, and any corrective lenses you require.
The costs for taking the G1, G2, and G tests in Ontario are approximately:
- G1 License Package: approx. $159.75 (includes the G2 test and 5-year license)
- G2 Road Test: approx. $53.75 separately
- G Road Test: approx. $91.25
