Most Common G2 Mistakes Ontario 2026 — Examiner Tips to Pass First Try
These are the exact mistakes Ontario examiners see every single day. Avoid them and your chances of passing the G2 first try increase dramatically.
Based on the official Ontario Driver's Handbook and real DriveTest scenarios. Updated October 2026.
Top G2 Mistakes — Examiner Perspective
Rolling Stop at Stop Signs
CriticalExaminer Tip: Count "one-one-thousand" after stopping. Wheels must be fully stopped.
Missing Shoulder Checks
CriticalExaminer Tip: Turn your head visibly. Examiners watch for this on every lane change and turn.
Poor Intersection Observation
CriticalExaminer Tip: Scan left-right-left before entering any intersection, even on green.
Not Yielding to Pedestrians
CriticalExaminer Tip: Stop for pedestrians at all crosswalks — marked and unmarked.
Driving Too Slowly
Minor (accumulates)Examiner Tip: Drive at or near the posted speed limit when safe. Excessive slowness is penalized.
Forgetting to Signal
Minor (accumulates)Examiner Tip: Signal every turn and lane change, minimum 30 metres in advance.
Parallel Parking Too Far from Curb
MinorExaminer Tip: Aim within 30 cm of the curb. Practise until it's automatic.
Incorrect Following Distance
MinorExaminer Tip: Maintain a 2–3 second gap. Increase in bad weather.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an automatic fail on the G2 test in Ontario?
Automatic fails include: running a red light or stop sign, dangerous actions that require examiner intervention, driving the wrong way, or any action that endangers the public.
How many minor errors can I make on the G2 test?
There is no fixed number. Minor errors accumulate — too many in the same category (e.g., observation) will result in a fail even without a single critical error.
Is a rolling stop an automatic fail?
A rolling stop (not fully stopping at a stop sign) is typically a critical error and will result in a fail. Your wheels must completely stop.
Do I need to check mirrors at every intersection?
Yes. Mirror checks and shoulder checks at intersections are expected. Missing them repeatedly is a common fail reason.
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