The Ontario driver's license process has three stages: the written knowledge test, the road test, and the medical form

To get a driver's license in Ontario, you move through three distinct steps. First, you pass a written test about traffic laws and road signs at a ServiceOntario office. Second, you pass a practical driving test with an examiner. Third, you submit a medical form signed by your doctor. You cannot skip any step, and you must complete them in order. The entire process typically takes several weeks to a few months, depending on how quickly you book your tests and how many attempts you need.

Ontario has two license classes for most new drivers: the G1 (learner's permit) and the G (full license). You start with the G1, which lets you drive only with a licensed supervisor in the car. After passing the road test, you get the G, which has no restrictions. Some people move through both in a few months; others take longer. The cost varies by test type but ranges from roughly $50 to $150 per test, plus the medical form fee.

Key Takeaways

  • You must pass the written test at ServiceOntario before you can book a road test, and you must pass the road test before you can get your full license.
  • The written test covers Ontario traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices; you need 16 out of 20 correct answers to pass.
  • For the road test, you must bring your own vehicle, proof of insurance, and a licensed supervisor who is at least 18 years old and holds a valid G license.
  • Your doctor must complete a medical form (Form DL 180) confirming you are fit to drive; this is required before ServiceOntario will issue your license.
  • You can book both tests online through ServiceOntario or by phone, and cancellations often open up within days if you check regularly.

What you need before you book the written test

Before you walk into a ServiceOntario office to take the written test, gather proof of identity and proof of residence. Acceptable identity documents include a passport, birth certificate, or a document issued by a Canadian government body. Proof of residence can be a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last three months and showing your current address.

You do not need a learner's permit or any prior document to take the written test. You straightforward show up with your ID and proof of address, pay the test fee (around $50), and sit for the exam. The test is 20 multiple-choice questions about Ontario traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving. You have 30 minutes to complete it. You need 16 correct answers to pass. If you fail, you can retake it, but you must wait at least one week and pay the fee again.

Booking and passing the written test

Book your written test online at the ServiceOntario website or by calling 1-800-387-3556. Online booking is faster and shows you available dates and times at your nearest office. You can book weeks in advance or sometimes find same-week slots, depending on your location and how busy the office is.

On test day, arrive 15 minutes early with your ID and proof of residence. The test is administered on a computer at most ServiceOntario offices. You will see questions about speed limits, right-of-way rules, what different road signs mean, and how to handle hazards. Study the official Ontario driver's handbook, which is free and available online at ontario.ca/drivershandbook. Many people also use practice tests available on the same website. After you pass, you receive a receipt confirming you passed the written test. Keep this receipt; you will need it to book your road test.

Finding a vehicle and supervisor for the road test

The road test is a 40-minute drive with an examiner. You must provide your own vehicle, and it must be insured, registered, and in safe working condition. The examiner will check the brakes, lights, windshield wipers, and mirrors before you start. If anything is broken or missing, the test will not proceed.

You must also bring a licensed supervisor — someone who is at least 18 years old and holds a valid Ontario G license. This person sits in the front passenger seat during the test. They cannot help you drive or give you directions, but their presence is required. Many people ask a parent, older sibling, or friend who holds a full license. If you do not know anyone who can supervise, some driving schools offer this service for a fee.

Booking and taking the road test

Book your road test online or by phone using the same ServiceOntario channels. You will need your receipt from the written test. Road test wait times vary widely by region; in busy areas like Toronto, you may wait 4 to 8 weeks, while in smaller towns the wait might be 2 to 3 weeks. Cancellations happen frequently, so if you check the online booking system every few days, you may find an earlier slot.

On test day, bring your written test receipt, proof of insurance for the vehicle, the vehicle's registration, and your ID. The examiner will ask you to perform basic maneuvers: starting the car, turning, stopping, parking, and reversing. They will also ask you to drive on different road types — residential streets, busier roads, and sometimes highways. The examiner is looking for safe habits: checking mirrors, signaling before turns, maintaining safe speed, and responding correctly to traffic signs. If you fail, you can retake the test, but you must wait at least two weeks and pay the fee again.

Getting the medical form completed and submitting it

After you pass the road test, you need a medical form signed by your doctor. ServiceOntario will give you Form DL 180 (the medical report form) when you pass your road test, or you can read it from ontario.ca. Schedule an appointment with your family doctor or any licensed physician in Ontario. The form asks about your vision, hearing, and any medical conditions that might affect your ability to drive safely. Your doctor signs it and returns it to you.

Bring the completed medical form to a ServiceOntario office along with your road test receipt, ID, and proof of residence. ServiceOntario will review the form and, if everything is in order, issue your G license on the spot or mail it to you within a few business days. The medical form itself is free; you pay only your doctor's office fee, which varies.

What happens if you fail a test or need to retake it

If you fail the written test, you can retake it after one week. If you fail the road test, you can retake it after two weeks. Each retake costs the same fee as the original test. There is no limit to how many times you can retake either test, so failing does not disqualify you.

If you fail the road test, ask the examiner for feedback on what you need to improve. Common reasons for failure include not checking mirrors, not signaling, speeding, or hitting a curb while parking. Many people book a few lessons with a driving instructor between attempts. Instructors can focus on your weak areas and build your confidence. After you pass on a later attempt, you proceed to the medical form step as usual.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the written test before I turn 16?

No. You must be at least 16 years old to take the written test in Ontario. You can book the test as soon as you turn 16. There is no waiting period after your birthday.

Do I need to take a driving course before the road test?

No, it is not required. However, many people take lessons with a certified driving instructor to build confidence and practice specific skills. Some insurance companies offer discounts if you complete an approved course, so it may save you money even if it is not mandatory.

What if I lose my written test receipt before I book the road test?

Contact ServiceOntario and provide your name and date of birth. They can look up your test result and issue a replacement receipt. You can do this by phone at 1-800-387-3556 or in person at any ServiceOntario office.

Can I use someone else's car for the road test?

Yes, as long as the car is insured, registered, and in safe condition. The insurance must be valid on the day of the test. The owner does not need to be present, but the vehicle must be insured in Ontario.

How long is the G license valid once I receive it?

Your first G license is valid for five years from the date it is issued. You will need to renew it before it expires. Renewal can be done online, by mail, or in person at ServiceOntario.