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G1 vs G2 vs Full G in Ontario: What Changes at Each Stage

Ontario's graduated licensing system moves new drivers from G1 to G2 to a full G licence. Here is what you can do at each stage, the restrictions that remain, and when you can take the next road test.

Quick comparison: G1, G2, and full G

  • G1: supervised driving while you build experience. You must pass the vision and knowledge tests first.
  • G2: independent driving on Ontario roads after passing the G2 road test, with novice-driver conditions still in place.
  • Full G: independent driving after the Class G road test, without the graduated-licensing novice conditions.

Last reviewed: August 25, 2026. Confirm time-sensitive licence conditions with Ontario before travelling or booking a test.

G1: supervised driving while you gain experience

G1 is the first Class G stage. After you pass the vision and knowledge tests, you may drive only with a qualified accompanying driver who has at least four years of driving experience, a blood alcohol concentration below 0.05, and is the only other person in the front seat.

  • You must maintain zero blood alcohol while driving.
  • You cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m.
  • You cannot use 400-series highways or other high-speed expressways unless you are accompanied by a certified driving instructor.
  • Every person in the vehicle must wear a seatbelt.

These conditions give new drivers time to build experience with supervision.

G2: independent driving with novice conditions

After passing the G2 road test, you can drive independently on all Ontario roads, including 400-series highways. You still need to maintain zero blood alcohol and follow the seatbelt rules.

G2 drivers aged 19 or under have late-night passenger limits between midnight and 5 a.m. During the first six months, they may carry only one passenger aged 19 or under. After six months, they may carry up to three passengers aged 19 or under until they receive a full G licence or turn 20. Ontario lists exceptions, so check the official guidance before planning a trip.

Full G: the final Class G stage

After passing the Class G road test, you receive the full G licence. The novice graduated-licensing conditions no longer apply, but Ontario's regular road-safety and impaired-driving laws still do.

Full G drivers can drive independently on Ontario roads, including highways.

When can you take the next road test?

You normally need to hold G1 for at least 12 months before taking the G2 road test. An approved beginner driver education course can reduce that G1 waiting period to eight months.

You need to hold G2 for at least 12 months before taking the Class G road test. These are minimum periods, so use the official information if your licence has a special condition or you are moving from another jurisdiction.

Which road test belongs to which step?

  • The G2 road test assesses the basic driving skills needed to move from G1 to G2.
  • The Class G road test covers advanced and highway driving skills needed to move from G2 to full G.

DriveTest can update test formats and route availability, so confirm the current requirements before booking. See the current G1 package and retake fees before you apply.

Read the current DriveTest road-test guide

Is there a G3 licence in Ontario?

Ontario does not have a standard G3 licence. The three stages are G1, G2, and full G.

For current eligibility, identification, and licence conditions, use the Ontario new-driver guide and the DriveTest Class G licence guide.

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Use the free visual practice tests on this site, then download the app for more study material.

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