Ontario Rules of the Road 2026 — G1 Knowledge Test
The rules of the road section covers about half of the Ontario G1 knowledge test. This guide explains right of way, intersections, lane changes, speed limits, G1 licence restrictions, and new driver responsibilities — in plain, beginner-friendly language updated for August 2026.
Based on the official Ontario Driver's Handbook and real DriveTest scenarios. Updated 2026.
Right of Way Rules in Ontario
Right of way determines who moves first at intersections and crossings. Getting this wrong is one of the most common G1 test mistakes — and one of the most dangerous errors on the road.
Speed Limits in Ontario (2026)
Speeding 1–15 km/h over the limit carries no demerit points in a regular zone but does carry 2 demerit points in a school or community safety zone. Speeding 16–29 km/h over = 3 demerit points. Speeding 50+ km/h over = stunt driving.
Lane Change Rules
Follow these steps every time you change lanes. Examiners look for all four steps during road tests:
- 1Signal your intention at least 30 metres before changing.
- 2Check your rear-view and side mirrors.
- 3Check your blind spot by looking over your shoulder.
- 4Move smoothly into the new lane if it is clear.
- 5Cancel your signal after the lane change is complete.
Failing to signal a lane change carries 2 demerit points. Improper lane changes that endanger other drivers can result in a careless driving charge (6 demerit points).
G1 Licence Restrictions
As a G1 driver, you are in the first stage of Ontario's graduated licensing system. These restrictions exist to help you build safe driving habits before driving independently:
Accompanying driver required
A fully licensed driver with 4+ years of experience must sit in the front passenger seat at all times.
No driving midnight–5 a.m.
G1 drivers cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m. regardless of accompanying driver.
No 400-series highways
G1 drivers cannot drive on 400-series highways or high-speed expressways (DVP, Gardiner, QEW). Exception: licensed driving instructor.
Zero blood alcohol
Any detectable amount of alcohol is illegal for G1 drivers. Zero tolerance applies 24/7.
Zero cannabis impairment
G1 drivers cannot drive while impaired by cannabis or any drug.
All passengers must wear seatbelts
As the driver, you are responsible for ensuring all passengers are buckled. Fines apply for each unbelted passenger.
BAC of accompanying driver
The accompanying driver must have a BAC under 0.05 — they cannot be impaired either.
New Driver Responsibilities
Ontario's graduated licensing system places extra responsibilities on new drivers. Understanding these is essential — both for the G1 test and for staying safe on the road:
Lower demerit threshold
G1/G2 drivers face suspension at 9 demerit points vs. 15 for fully licensed drivers. One distracted driving conviction (3 pts) uses one-third of your limit.
Zero tolerance for alcohol & drugs
G1 and G2 drivers must have zero blood alcohol and zero cannabis impairment. Any detectable amount results in an immediate roadside suspension.
Seatbelt responsibility
You are legally responsible for ensuring all passengers under 16 are wearing seatbelts. Fines apply for each unbelted passenger.
Vehicle roadworthiness
You are responsible for ensuring the vehicle you drive is in safe operating condition — working lights, adequate tire tread, functioning brakes, and no warning lights.
Distracted driving impact
A distracted driving conviction as a G1 driver costs $615–$1,000 and 3 demerit points. A second conviction triggers a 30-day licence suspension.
Insurance implications
New drivers already pay higher premiums. Any conviction — speeding, distracted driving, or running a red light — can significantly increase your insurance costs.
Quick Summary
- ✅ Four-way stop: first in, first out. Tie = driver on right goes first.
- ✅ Default urban speed: 50 km/h
- ✅ Lane change: signal → mirrors → blind spot → move
- ✅ Right on red: allowed after full stop unless signed otherwise
- ✅ School bus red lights: stop both directions on undivided roads
- ✅ No hand-held devices while driving — ever
- ✅ G1: no highways, no midnight–5 a.m., zero alcohol, accompanying driver required
- ✅ G1/G2 suspension threshold: 9 demerit points (60 days)
- ✅ All passengers must wear seatbelts — driver is responsible
Practice Quiz
5 QuestionsAt a four-way stop, who goes first?
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the right-of-way rule at an uncontrolled intersection?
At an uncontrolled intersection (no signs or signals), yield to the vehicle on your right. If you arrive at the same time as another driver, the driver on the right goes first.
Can you use a cell phone while driving in Ontario?
No. Using a hand-held device while driving is illegal in Ontario. You must use hands-free technology. Fines start at $615 and you receive 3 demerit points.
What is the minimum following distance on a highway?
Ontario recommends at least a 2-second following distance in good conditions, and 4 seconds or more in rain, snow, or fog.
What are the main G1 licence restrictions?
G1 drivers must be accompanied by a fully licensed driver (4+ years) in the front passenger seat, cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m., cannot drive on 400-series highways or high-speed expressways, and must have zero blood alcohol. All passengers must wear seatbelts.
What happens if a G1 driver violates their licence conditions?
Violating G1 conditions can result in fines and demerit points. Because G1/G2 drivers face suspension at just 9 demerit points, even a single violation can significantly impact your driving privileges.
How long must you hold a G1 before taking the G2 road test?
You must hold your G1 for at least 12 months before taking the G2 road test. This is reduced to 8 months if you complete an approved driver education course.
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