The G1 test checks whether you know the rules of the road before you drive on your own

The G1 is a written test about traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You answer multiple-choice questions on a computer or paper, and you need to pass it before you can get a learner's permit and start driving with a licensed adult in the car. The test is run by your province's licensing authority — in Ontario, that's ServiceOntario; in other provinces, it's the equivalent motor vehicle office.

You do not need to have driven before to take the G1. The test measures whether you have studied the rules, not whether you can actually drive. Most people take it in their teens or early twenties, but you can take it at any age once you meet your province's minimum age requirement.

Key Takeaways

  • The G1 is a written test of about 40 questions covering traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving rules.
  • You must pass the G1 before you can get a learner's permit and drive with a licensed adult supervising.
  • Study materials are free from your provincial licensing office and cover everything the test asks.
  • You can retake the test if you fail, usually the same day or within a few days, depending on your province.
  • Passing the G1 does not mean you can drive alone — you still need a licensed adult in the car and must follow learner permit rules.

What the G1 test covers

The test asks about road signs and what they mean, speed limits and when they change, right-of-way rules at intersections and roundabouts, parking rules, and what to do in bad weather or at night. You will also see questions about alcohol and driving, distracted driving, and how to share the road with pedestrians and cyclists.

The exact number of questions varies by province. Ontario's G1 has 40 questions, and you need to get at least 16 right to pass. Other provinces may have different totals and passing scores, so check your provincial licensing office website for the exact numbers.

The test does not ask you to identify cars, calculate stopping distances, or demonstrate any physical skill. It is purely about knowing the rules and recognizing situations where those rules explore.

How to study for the G1

Your provincial licensing office publishes a free study guide — in Ontario, it is called the Official Driver's Handbook and is available online and in print at ServiceOntario offices. This guide covers everything the test asks. Reading it once is usually not enough; most people study it over several weeks, focusing on the sections that confuse them.

Many people also use practice tests, which are available free from the provincial office or from third-party websites. Practice tests show you the format and the kinds of questions you will see, which reduces anxiety on test day. Taking a practice test more than once helps you spot the rules you have not yet memorized.

Some people find it helpful to study with a friend or family member, or to watch videos that explain road signs and rules. The key is to spend time on the material before test day rather than cramming the night before.

When and where to take the G1 test

You book your test appointment through your provincial licensing office. In Ontario, you book online through ServiceOntario or by phone. Other provinces have similar systems. You choose a date and time that works for you, and you show up at the office on that day.

The test usually takes 30 to 45 minutes. You will be in a quiet room with a computer or paper test, and an examiner will be present to make sure you follow the rules — no phones, no talking to other people, no looking at study materials during the test.

You will need to bring identification and proof of your address. Check your provincial office website for the exact documents they require, as this varies slightly by province.

What happens if you fail the G1

If you do not pass, you can retake the test. In Ontario, you can retake it the same day if you want, or you can book another appointment for a later date. You will pay the test fee again. There is no limit to how many times you can retake the G1, so failing once does not prevent you from trying again.

Most people who fail the first time pass on the second or third attempt, especially if they spend time studying the sections where they struggled. The examiner will not tell you which questions you got wrong, but you can review the study guide and practice tests to figure out which topics need more work.

After you pass the G1

Once you pass, you get a G1 learner's permit. This permit lets you drive, but only with a licensed adult in the front passenger seat. The adult must have a valid driver's license and be at least 21 years old (the age varies slightly by province). You must follow all the rules on your permit — usually no highway driving, no driving between midnight and 5 a.m., and no passengers other than the supervising adult.

You hold the G1 for a minimum of 8 to 12 months, depending on your province. During this time, you build driving experience with supervision. When you are ready, you book a road test — the G2 test — where an examiner watches you drive and scores your actual driving skills.

The G1 is a stepping stone, not the end of the licensing process. It proves you know the rules; the road test proves you can follow them while driving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a G1 to get a learner's permit?

Yes. You must pass the G1 written test before the licensing office will issue a learner's permit. The permit is what allows you to drive with a supervising adult.

Can I take the G1 test online from home?

In most provinces, no — you must go to a licensing office to take the test in person. Some provinces have tested remote testing during emergencies, but the standard is in-office. Check your provincial licensing office for current rules.

What happens if I bring my phone into the test room?

You will be asked to put it away before the test starts. If you use it during the test, your test will be cancelled and you will lose your fee. Leave your phone in your car or at home.

How long is the G1 permit valid?

A G1 permit is usually valid for 5 years from the date you pass the test. If you do not take and pass your road test (G2) within that time, you will need to retake the G1 written test to renew your learner's permit.

Can I drive on the highway with a G1 permit?

No. G1 permits do not allow highway driving. You are limited to local roads and secondary highways, depending on your province. Once you pass your road test and get a G2 license, you can drive on highways (with some restrictions that vary by province).