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What is graduated licensing?

Ontario uses a graduated licensing system. This means that new drivers have to complete 2 steps before they can get a full driver's licence.

It takes at least 20 months to complete the steps. But you have up to a maximum of 5 years to complete them.

The graduated licensing system applies to:

• G class licences (cars, vans, small trucks)
• M class licences (motorcycles, motor scooters, mopeds)

This article is about G class licences. Find more information about graduated licensing for motorcycle riders on the Ministry of Transportation website.

Step 1: G1 Licence

To get a G1 licence, you must pass a knowledge (written) test and a vision test.

There are restrictions for G1 drivers.

After 12 months, you can take the G1 road test. If you take driving lessons from an approved driving school, you can take the G1 road test after only 8 months.

If you pass the G1 road test, you will get a G2 licence.

Step 2: G2 Licence

With a G2 licence, you do not need to have a fully-licensed driver with you when you drive. You can also drive on any Ontario road, including highways. You can drive at any time of day.

However, there are some restrictions for G2 drivers.

After 12 months, you can take the G2 road test. If you pass the G2 road test, you will get a G licence.

G Licence

The G licence is a full driver's licence.

If you are 21 years old or younger, you must have 0% blood alcohol while driving regardless of your licence class or type.

Contact the Ministry of Transportation of Ontario

The Ministry of Transportation of Ontario (MTO) is the government department that controls driver's licences and vehicle registration in Ontario. Call the MTO if you have questions:

• In Ontario: 1-800-387-3445
• In Toronto: 416-235-2999
• TTY: 1-866-471-8929

For More Information

• Graduated Licensing - Information about the graduated licensing system in Ontario. From the Ministry of Transportation.
• Obtaining a Driver's Licence - Information for car drivers and motorcycle drivers. From the DriveTest website.
• Driver Examination Centres - You can take written tests and driving tests at these centres. From the DriveTest website.
• Driver's Handbook Online - Provides a guide to the rules of the road, safe driving practices and how to get your licence to drive a car, van or small truck.
• Out of Country Drivers - Information on how to get an Ontario licence if you have had a driver's licence before but are not eligible for a licence exchange. From the DriveTest website.