How to Pass the G1 Test in Ontario on Your First Try (2026)
The Ontario G1 knowledge test is the first step toward getting your driver's licence. With the right preparation, most people pass on their first attempt. Here's exactly what you need to know — from what's on the test to the G1 restrictions you'll be living with once you pass.
This guide is based on the official Ontario Driver's Handbook and the real G1 test format used at DriveTest centres across Ontario. Updated August 2026.
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What's Actually on the G1 Test
The G1 knowledge test is a computer-based, multiple-choice exam administered at DriveTest centres across Ontario. It has exactly 40 questions split into two equal sections — and you must pass both independently:
- Section 1 — Road Signs: 20 questions. You need at least 16/20 (80%) to pass.
- Section 2 — Rules of the Road: 20 questions. You need at least 16/20 (80%) to pass.
- There is NO time limit — take as long as you need.
- Results are displayed immediately on screen when you finish.
- The test is available in multiple languages at DriveTest centres.
A high score on one section cannot compensate for a low score on the other. If you score 20/20 on rules but only 14/20 on signs, you fail — and must retake the entire test after 10 days. This is why studying road signs is non-negotiable.
Top 5 Topics That Appear on Every G1 Test
Based on the Ontario Driver's Handbook, these five topic areas are tested on virtually every G1 exam. Master these before anything else:
Road Sign Shapes and Colours
Shape = category. Colour = urgency. Red octagon = stop. Yellow diamond = warning. White rectangle = regulatory. Orange = construction. Blue = services. Know every sign in the handbook.
School Bus Rules
When a school bus displays flashing red lights, you must stop in BOTH directions on an undivided road. On a divided road (with a median), only vehicles behind the bus must stop. This is tested every time.
Right-of-Way at 4-Way Stops
First to arrive goes first. Simultaneous arrival: yield to the vehicle on your right. Turning left always yields to oncoming traffic going straight — even if you arrived first.
G1 Licence Restrictions
Zero BAC, no driving midnight–5 a.m., accompanying driver must have 4+ years experience and sit in the front passenger seat, no 400-series highways unless with a licensed driving instructor.
Speed Limits by Zone
Default urban: 50 km/h. Highways: 100 km/h. School/playground zones: 40 km/h when children are present (some municipalities 30 km/h). Construction zones: as posted, fines doubled.
G1 Licence Restrictions You Must Know
Once you pass the G1 test, you'll drive under Ontario's graduated licensing restrictions. These rules are also tested on the exam itself — so knowing them helps you both pass the test and drive legally:
- Zero blood alcohol concentration (BAC) — absolutely no alcohol or cannabis while driving
- No driving between midnight and 5 a.m.
- Accompanying driver must hold a full G licence with at least 4 years of driving experience
- Accompanying driver must sit in the front passenger seat at all times
- No driving on 400-series highways or high-speed expressways — UNLESS accompanied by a licensed driving instructor
- All passengers must wear seatbelts — you are responsible
- Number of passengers cannot exceed the number of working seatbelts
The highway restriction is commonly misunderstood: a G licence holder in the passenger seat does not allow G1 drivers on 400-series highways. Only a licensed driving instructor qualifies. See our G1 Rules of the Road guide for the full breakdown.
How to Study Effectively for the G1 Test
Read the Ontario Driver's Handbook — Once Through First
The entire G1 test is based on this handbook. It's free on the MTO website. Read it cover to cover at least once before taking any practice tests. Pay special attention to road signs, right-of-way rules, speed limits, school bus laws, and G1 restrictions. Most people underestimate how detailed the questions can be.
Start With Road Signs — They Trip People Up Most
Road signs are the most commonly failed section. Many people know the rules of the road but struggle with less common signs — regulatory signs, warning signs, and temporary construction signs. Study every sign in the handbook, not just the obvious ones. Our dedicated road signs practice test isolates this section.
Take 3+ Full 40-Question Practice Tests
Practice tests are the single most effective preparation tool. They familiarize you with the question format, help you identify weak areas, and build confidence. Take at least 3–5 full practice tests before your real exam. Review every wrong answer — understand WHY the correct answer is right, not just what it is.
Review Mistakes and Repeat Until Scoring 90%+
Don't just take tests — review every wrong answer and re-read that section of the handbook. Keep taking tests until you're consistently scoring 90%+ (36/40). That buffer protects you against tricky wording on the real exam.
Book Your Test When You're Ready
Book your G1 test at DriveTest.ca. Bring acceptable ID and the test fee. Arrive 15 minutes early. The test is done on a computer — you'll get your results immediately after finishing.
Common Mistakes That Cause G1 Test Failures
Over 30% of first-time G1 test takers fail. Here are the most common reasons — and how to avoid them:
✗ Mistake: Not reading the handbook
✓ Fix: Read the full Ontario Driver's Handbook before your test — don't rely on practice tests alone.
✗ Mistake: Guessing on road signs
✓ Fix: Study every sign systematically. Many signs look similar but have different meanings.
✗ Mistake: Skipping practice tests
✓ Fix: Take at least 3 full practice tests. Familiarity with the format reduces test anxiety.
✗ Mistake: Rushing through questions
✓ Fix: Read every word carefully. Many questions have tricky wording — "always", "never", "except".
✗ Mistake: Not knowing G1 restrictions
✓ Fix: Zero BAC, no midnight–5 a.m. driving, no 400-series highways without a driving instructor — these are tested directly.
For a deeper dive, see our article on the most common G1 test mistakes Ontario drivers make.
What to Expect on Test Day
Here's what happens when you arrive at a DriveTest centre for your G1 test:
- 1Arrive at the DriveTest centre with your ID and payment
- 2Check in at the front desk and complete paperwork
- 3Wait to be called to a computer station
- 4Complete the 40-question test at your own pace (no time limit)
- 5Get your results immediately on screen
- 6If you pass, receive your G1 licence document
- 7If you fail, you can rebook after 10 days
After You Pass: What's Next?
Once you have your G1 licence, you can start driving — but under the restrictions listed above. After holding your G1 for at least 12 months (or 8 months with a certified driving course), you can take the G2 road test.
Use your G1 period wisely: practice in a variety of conditions (night, rain, highway with an instructor), and study the full G1 guide to understand every rule you'll need for the G2 road test too.
Conclusion: Your G1 Pass Checklist
Passing the Ontario G1 test on your first try is very achievable with focused preparation. Here's your action plan:
- Read the Ontario Driver's Handbook cover to cover
- Study road signs by shape and colour — not just name
- Memorize G1 restrictions (BAC, hours, highway rules, accompanying driver)
- Take at least 3 full 40-question practice tests
- Review every wrong answer until you understand why
- Score 90%+ consistently before booking your real test
Ready to start? Take our free G1 practice test, explore the G1 study guide, or brush up on Ontario road signs before your exam.
Frequently Asked Questions — G1 Test Ontario
How many questions are on the Ontario G1 test?
The G1 knowledge test has 40 multiple-choice questions — 20 on road signs and 20 on rules of the road. You need to score at least 16/20 on each section to pass. Both sections are scored independently.
How long does the G1 test take?
There is no time limit. Most people finish in 20–30 minutes. Take your time reading each question carefully — rushing is one of the most common causes of avoidable errors.
What happens if I fail the G1 test?
You can retake it after 10 days. There is no limit on attempts, but you pay the test fee each time. Most people pass within 1–2 attempts with proper preparation.
Can I study for the G1 test online?
Yes. The best resources are the official Ontario Driver's Handbook (free on the MTO website) and free practice tests like the ones on GTest Canada.
What ID do I need to bring to the G1 test?
You need acceptable government-issued ID (e.g., passport, birth certificate, or permanent resident card). Check DriveTest.ca for the full accepted list before your appointment.
Is the G1 test the same across Ontario?
Yes. The G1 knowledge test is standardized across all DriveTest centres in Ontario — whether you're in Toronto, Brampton, Mississauga, Ottawa, or Hamilton.
Can G1 drivers go on 400-series highways?
No — unless accompanied by a licensed driving instructor. A G licence holder in the front passenger seat does not qualify for highway driving. This restriction is frequently tested on the G1 exam.
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