How Many Mistakes Can You Make on the G Test in Ontario?
Like the G2 test, the Ontario G road test does not have a fixed number of allowed mistakes. The examiner assesses the type, frequency, and context of errors — with the added complexity of highway driving. Here is what you need to know.
Based on the official Ontario Driver's Handbook and real DriveTest scenarios. Updated October 2026.
Quick Answer
There is no fixed number of mistakes allowed on the Ontario G road test. The examiner scores based on the type and frequency of errors. One critical error ends the test immediately. Repeated minor errors — especially in observation or highway driving — can also result in failure.
How the G Test Is Scored
The G road test uses the same error classification system as the G2 test, but with higher expectations. You are being assessed as a fully independent driver — someone who can handle all driving conditions, including highway driving.
Critical Error / Unsafe Action
Result: Immediate test failure
Examples: Collision, requiring examiner intervention, running a red light, unsafe highway merge.
Serious Error
Result: Likely failure if repeated
Examples: Consistently missing shoulder checks, repeatedly poor highway lane discipline, multiple incomplete stops.
Minor Error
Result: Recorded but not immediately failing
Examples: One missed signal cancellation, one slightly wide turn, one stall.
Highway Driving — Where Most G Test Failures Happen
The highway component is where candidates who passed the G2 test comfortably often struggle. The most common highway errors on the G test are:
Merging too slowly
Accelerate on the on-ramp to match highway speed before merging. Entering at 60 km/h when traffic is at 100 km/h is dangerous.
Missing observation before merging
Check mirrors and do a shoulder check before every merge. At highway speed, blind spots are more dangerous.
Driving significantly below the speed limit
On a 100 km/h highway, driving at 70 km/h without reason is an error. Drive at a speed appropriate for conditions.
Sitting in the left lane
Keep right except to pass. Occupying the left lane without passing is an error.
Braking on the highway before the off-ramp
Slow down on the off-ramp, not on the highway itself. Braking on the highway disrupts traffic flow.
City Driving on the G Test
The G test includes driving on major roads and in business areas — intersections, turns, lane changes, and observation. At full-time DriveTest centres and temporary road-test locations, the G test does not include residential-neighbourhood driving, parallel parking, 3-point turns, or roadside stops (these are covered by the G2 test). Part-time Travel Point locations continue to offer the standard G road test. The examiner expects confident, independent driving throughout. Common city errors on the G test include:
- Incomplete stops at stop signs
- Missing shoulder checks on turns and lane changes
- Poor observation at intersections
- Hesitation at intersections or when merging
- Incorrect lane positioning on turns
Preparing for the G Test
Because there is no fixed number of allowed errors, the best preparation is to build consistent, confident driving habits — especially on the highway.
- Get significant highway driving practice before the test — not just one or two trips.
- Practise merging at highway speed, not just at slow speeds.
- Shoulder check on every lane change and merge — make it automatic.
- Drive at a reasonable speed. Confidence matters as much as caution.
- Review the current test format at your specific DriveTest location.
Note: GTestCanada is an independent study resource. We are not affiliated with DriveTest Ontario, the Ministry of Transportation, or any government body. For official test information, visit drivetest.ca.
Related G Test Resources
Practice Quiz
5 QuestionsIs there a fixed number of mistakes allowed on the Ontario G road test?
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the G test scored differently from the G2 test?
The same error categories apply — critical, serious, and minor. However, the G test adds highway driving, which introduces new error types and holds you to a higher standard of confident, independent driving.
How long does the G road test take?
The G road test typically takes 30–45 minutes, including the highway portion. The exact duration depends on your test location and route.
What if I make an error on the highway but recover safely?
The examiner assesses the overall quality of your driving. A single minor error that you handle safely and calmly is very different from a pattern of errors or a dangerous situation. Recovery and composure matter.
Does the G test include city driving as well as highway driving?
Yes. The G test includes driving on major roads and expressways, as well as city driving in business areas — intersections, lane changes, turns, and observation. At full-time DriveTest centres and temporary road-test locations, the G test does not include residential-neighbourhood driving, parallel parking, 3-point turns, or roadside stops, as these are covered by the G2 test. Part-time Travel Point locations continue to offer the standard G road test.
What happens to my G2 licence if I fail the G test?
Your G2 licence remains valid. Failing the G test does not affect your G2 status. You must wait at least 10 days before rebooking.
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