Passing the G Driving Test in Ontario grants you full driving privileges. However, the road to success requires thorough preparation and attention to detail. In this post, we’ll cover everything you need to know about common G driving test errors.
Top Errors That Could Fail You on the G Driving Test and How to Prevent Them
If it’s your first attempt or you’re G driving test, here are insights to help you feel confident and avoid major errors during G driving test. Let’s dive into the essential tips that will put you in the driver’s seat toward success!
1. Avoiding Shoulder Checks
Shoulder checks, also known as head checks, are a key part of safe driving during your G test. You need to do them before making turns. Why? Because mirrors can’t always show you everything, like cars or cyclists in your blind spot. A quick glance over your shoulder helps you stay safe.
When taking your driving test, remember to do a shoulder check every time you turn, change lanes, or merge onto the highway. It shows the examiner that you’re paying attention to what’s happening around you and that safety is your top priority.
2. Stopping at Intersections
When approaching an intersection, you need to stop your car at the stop line. If there’s no stop line, stop at the crosswalk or the edge of the intersection. Many drivers stop too far past these points, which can block pedestrians or disrupt traffic. This is a mistake that can cost you points on your G driving test—and in real life, it could even cause accidents.
3. Forgetting to Signal When Changing Directions
Signaling lets others know what you plan to do next. It’s important to signal before every turn and lane change so drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians can prepare for your move.
If you don’t signal, it can cause confusion, near misses, or even accidents because others won’t have enough time to react. During your test, not signaling can lead to big point deductions or even an automatic G driving test failures.
4. Poor Space Management
Keeping enough space around your vehicle is crucial for safe driving. One of the most important things is to maintain a safe distance from the car in front of you. This gives you enough time to react if they stop suddenly. In heavy traffic or bad weather, managing your space becomes even more important.
If you follow too closely, you might end up in a rear-end collision or struggle to avoid obstacles. During your test, showing good space management proves to the G driving examiner that you’re careful and can handle different driving situations.
5. Incorrect Lane Positioning When Turning
Positioning your car correctly when turning is key to keeping traffic smooth and avoiding accidents. When making a right turn, stay close to the right side of your lane. For left turns, position your car near the centerline or the left lane, depending on the road.
One common mistake in G road test is drifting into the wrong lane or cutting corners, which can confuse other drivers and cause crashes. During your test, poor lane positioning can cost you points, as it shows a lack of control and awareness. Keep your turns clean and stay in your lane!
6. Driving Too Slowly or Too Quickly
Keeping the right speed is key to safe and smooth driving, especially if you want to avoid the mistakes in G test. Driving too slowly can frustrate other drivers and cause unnecessary delays, while driving too fast can lead to dangerous situations and reduce your reaction time.
Both speeding and going too slow can hurt your G test score, as they show poor judgment of speed. Avoid hard braking or hesitation when turning, as these signs suggest indecision and lack of control.
7. Improper Reversing Technique
Reversing takes extra care, and the most important thing is to physically look out the back window to see everything around you. While mirrors and backup cameras can help, relying only on them can cause you to miss obstacles or leave blind spots.
Not looking out the back window when reversing could cost you points in G driving test, as it shows you’re not fully aware of your surroundings. To avoid mistakes, use your mirrors and cameras, but keep your main focus on what’s behind you for safe and controlled reversing.
8. Not Keeping Both Hands on the Steering Wheel
Keeping both hands on the steering wheel is a basic rule that helps you stay in control during your test. G test Examiners watch for this because driving with one hand can make it harder to handle sudden or tricky situations.
Many drivers make the mistake of using one hand when adjusting the radio, checking their phone, or turning the wheel improperly. To avoid this, always keep both hands in the “9 and 3” or “10 and 2” positions, and avoid distractions that might make you let go of the wheel. This simple habit leads to safer driving.
9. Failing to Yield to Pedestrians
Yielding to pedestrians isn’t just polite—it’s the law, especially during your test. Pedestrians always have the right of way at crosswalks and intersections. Failing to yield can lead to an immediate G test failure or even dangerous accidents.
Many drivers overlook pedestrians when turning or rushing through yellow lights, creating risky situations. During your test, it’s important to stay alert at all pedestrian crossings and always give right of way when needed. Being aware of pedestrian safety shows you’re a responsible driver and boosts your chances of passing the G1 test.
10. Not Following Location-Specific Speed Limits
Knowing and following speed limits in different areas is key to safe driving and passing your test. School zones, residential areas, and highways each have specific speed limits to protect pedestrians, children, and other drivers.
Driving too fast in a school zone or too slowly on a highway can lead to traffic violations or G test penalties. Many drivers overlook speed signs or forget to slow down in certain areas, which can cause accidents or a failed G test. Always pay attention to speed limits and adjust your speed accordingly to stay safe and pass your test.
Closing Thoughts
Taking the G Driving Test can feel stressful, but with the right preparation and focus, you’ll be well on your way to passing. To perform better on your test, it’s important to understand the differences between the G and G2 tests. Remember, every attempt is a learning experience, and each setback only brings you closer to mastering your driving skills. Stay calm, follow the rules, and believe in yourself—you’ve got this!
FAQs
You can retake the G Driving Test as many times as you need. However, after each failed attempt, you must wait at least 10 days before booking another test. Keep in mind that each retake requires paying the test fee again.
