G & G2 Road Test Routes - Ontario

The G & G2 Road Tests

All driving tests in Ontario are carried out by DriveTest Centres on behalf of the Ministry of Transportation (MTO). To earn your full Class G licence, you’ll need to move through two road test stages under Ontario’s Graduated Licensing System:

G2 Road Test (G1 Exit)

After holding your G1 licence for a minimum of 12 months (8 months if you complete an approved driver education course), you can then take your first road test.

This is often called the “G1 exit test”and it focuses on basic driving skills such as:

1. Turning

2. Lane changes

3. Parking

4. Following traffic signs and signals.

Passing your G1 exit test earns you your G2 licence, which then allows you to drive without an accompanying driver.

G Road Test (G2 Exit)

If you’ve had your G2 licence for at least 12 months, you can take the second test, often called the “G2 exit test”. This exam is more advanced than the G1, covering:

1. Highway driving

2. Merging at higher speeds

3. Handling more complex traffic situations.

Passing your G2 exit test gives you your full Class G licence with no restrictions.

Restrictions

While holding your G1 or G2 licence, there will be restrictions that apply:

• G1 drivers: you must always drive with a fully licensed driver who has at least 4 years’ experience. Additionally you cannot drive on 400-series highways or high-speed expressways without a qualified instructor present.

• G2 drivers: you cannot drive if you have any alcohol in your system. If you’re under 19 years old, you will face additional passenger restrictions during late-night hours.

How The Road Tests Work

All road tests are booked and conducted through DriveTest Centres across Ontario:

• Booking your test – Schedule online through the DriveTest website, by phone, or in person at your chosen centre. Plan ahead as high-demand areas like Toronto and Ottawa fill up quickly.

• Costs – There are set fees which apply to both the G2 and G tests. You can pay individually, or as part of a package when you get your G1 licence.

• What to bring – Your current licence, valid identification, and proof of payment being made.

• Your vehicle – You must bring along a safe, roadworthy vehicle with valid insurance, registration, and working equipment (lights, horn, seatbelts, brakes, and windshield wipers) to your test.

• On the day – The examiner guides you through a predetermined route close to the test centre. If you’re taking the G test, the route will also include a stretch of highway driving. They’ll give you clear directions as to where to go, but won’t offer any advice on yr driving.

Driving Advice

You may encounter very different driving conditions depending on where you take your test in ON:

• Winter weather – Snow, ice, and freezing rain makes driving a challenge. Adapt by braking smoothly, accelerating gently, and keeping a safe distance.

• Highway driving – For your G test, you’ll need to demonstrate proper merging technique , lane discipline, and safe following distances on 400-series highways (or equivalent).

• Urban traffic – Busy areas like Toronto, Mississauga, or Ottawa, feature multi-lane roads, heavier congestion, and frequent pedestrian crossings.

• Rural routes – Smaller centres may test you out on country roads, where watching for wildlife and farm vehicles becomes a unique additional challenge.

• School zones – Stick to the reduced speed limits in school zones, especially during the signposted hours.

Avoid These Mistakes

1. Incomplete rolling stops – ALWAYS come to a complete stop at both stop signs and red lights, or risk failing.

2. Improper lane changes – Forgetting to signal, forgetting your blind spot checks, or changing lanes too abruptly can lead to an automatic fail.

3. Speed control – Going too fast or too slow for the conditions is a common reason reported for losing points.

4. Highway hesitation – While on your G test, failing to merge confidently or not matching highway speeds can cause an avoidable problem.

5. Not scanning properly – Examiners want to see you constantly scanning your surroundings. Keep checking your mirrors, all directions at intersections, and for pedestrians at crossings.