Ontario · G1 · April 2026 · 10 min read
Ontario G1 Test 2026: Everything You Need to Know
The Ontario G1 knowledge test is the first step toward getting your driver's licence in Ontario. It is a 40-question multiple-choice exam that tests your knowledge of road signs and the rules of the road. Here is everything you need to know about the format, cost, how to study, and what to expect on test day.
What is the G1 Test?
The G1 knowledge test is administered by the Ministry of Transportation of Ontario (MTO) at DriveTest centres across the province. It is a computer-based multiple-choice exam that you must pass to receive your G1 learner's permit. You must be at least 16 years old to take the test. No appointment is needed — the test is available on a walk-in basis at any DriveTest centre during business hours.
The G1 permit is the first stage of Ontario's graduated licensing system (GLS). After holding your G1 for at least 12 months (or 8 months with an approved driver education course), you can take the G2 road test. The G1 test itself focuses entirely on written knowledge — there is no driving component.
How the Test is Structured
The G1 test has 40 multiple-choice questions divided into two separate sections of 20 questions each:
Section 1: Road Signs (20 questions)
Tests your ability to identify and understand traffic signs, signals, and road markings. You will see images of signs and must choose the correct meaning. You need at least 16 out of 20 correct (80%) to pass this section.
Section 2: Rules of the Road (20 questions)
Tests your knowledge of driving laws, right of way, safe driving practices, and what to do in specific situations. You also need at least 16 out of 20 correct (80%) to pass this section.
You must pass both sections independently. If you score 18/20 on signs but only 14/20 on rules, you fail the entire test and must retake both sections. The test has no official time limit, but most people finish in 20 to 30 minutes.
What the Test Covers
All questions are based on the Official MTO Driver's Handbook, which is available free online. The key topics include:
Traffic Signs & Signals
Regulatory signs (speed limits, stop, yield), warning signs (curves, school zones), construction signs, information signs, and traffic signals including flashing lights and pedestrian signals.
Right of Way
Who goes first at intersections, 4-way stops, T-intersections, roundabouts, and when merging. Yielding to pedestrians and emergency vehicles.
Safe Driving Practices
Following distance (2 seconds), lane changes, passing, highway driving, driving in bad weather, and sharing the road with cyclists and pedestrians.
Impaired Driving & Penalties
Blood alcohol limits (zero for G1/G2), distracted driving laws, demerit points, licence suspensions, and penalties for common offences.
How to Study for the G1 Test
Start by reading the Official MTO Driver's Handbook cover to cover. Pay special attention to the chapters on signs and signals, rules of the road, and safe and responsible driving. Many people underestimate the test and skip this step — that is the number one reason people fail.
After reading the handbook, take practice tests to identify your weak areas. ExamCanada offers free Ontario G1 practice tests with questions based on the official handbook, complete with instant feedback and explanations. Aim to consistently score 18/20 or better on both sections before taking the real test.
Cost and Where to Take the Test
The G1 knowledge test package costs $158.25 (as of 2026). This fee covers the knowledge test, a vision test, your G1 licence issuance, and your future G2 road test — so you only pay once for the full licensing process. If you fail the knowledge test, you can retake it by paying a $15.75 retake fee.
You can take the G1 test at any DriveTest centre in Ontario on a walk-in basis. No appointment is needed. Bring two pieces of acceptable identification that together prove your legal name, date of birth, and signature. Check the DriveTest website for current accepted ID requirements and centre hours before you go.
The test is available in English and French. If you need the test in another language, some DriveTest centres offer additional language options — check with your local centre in advance.
G1 Restrictions After Passing
Once you pass the G1 test, you receive your G1 learner's permit. The G1 comes with several restrictions you must follow:
1.Zero blood alcohol level (0.00 BAC) — no drinking and driving at all
2.Must be accompanied by a fully licensed driver (G licence) with at least 4 years of experience
3.Your accompanying driver must sit in the front passenger seat
4.No driving on 400-series highways or high-speed expressways (unless your accompanying driver is a licensed instructor)
5.No driving between midnight and 5:00 a.m.
6.Every occupant must wear a seatbelt — one person per seatbelt
You must hold your G1 for at least 12 months before you can take the G2 road test. If you complete an MTO-approved beginner driver education course (BDE), the waiting period is reduced to 8 months.
Free G1 Practice Tests
ExamCanada offers free Ontario G1 practice tests with questions covering both road signs and rules of the road. Each test gives you instant feedback with explanations for every answer. Use the practice tests alongside flashcards and the study guide to build confidence before your real test.
Ready to ace your G1 test?
Free practice questions with instant feedback, based on the Official MTO Driver's Handbook.