An Ontario driver's Licence is your proof of your privilege to drive. You must carry it with you whenever you drive.
If you live in Ontario, you must be at least 16 years old and have a valid Ontario driver's Licence to drive in the province. A newcomer to Ontario is required to apply for an Ontario driver's Licence within 60 days of taking up residence in the province.
Graduated Licensing for Automobile Drivers
Class G1:
New drivers of passenger vehicles learn to drive with six important conditions with a G1 Licence. A new driver must hold a G1 Licence for a minimum of 12 months before attempting the G1 road test.This time can be reduced to eight months if you successfully complete an approved driver education course. Drivers earn more privileges after passing their G1 road test.
As a G1 driver, you are required to:
- maintain a zero blood alcohol level while driving;
- be accompanied by a fully Licenced driver, who has at least four years driving experience, and a blood alcohol level of less than .05 per cent, in case he/she needs to take over the wheel;
- ensure the accompanying driver is the only other person in the front seat;
- ensure the number of passengers in the vehicle is limited to the number of working seat belts;
- refrain from driving on Ontario's "400-series" highways or on high speed expressways such as the Queen Elizabeth Way, Don Valley Parkway, Gardiner Expressway, E.C. Row Expressway and the Conestoga Parkway;
- refrain from driving between midnight and 5:00 a.m.
Class G2:
New drivers must hold a G2 Licence for a minimum of 12 months before they can attempt the G2 road test. At this level, you have more privileges because of your driving experience. You may drive without an accompanying driver on all Ontario roads anytime.
However, you are still required to:
- maintain a zero blood alcohol level while driving;
- ensure the number of passengers in the vehicle is limited to the number of working seat belts.
Ministry-Approved Beginner Driver Education Courses
By taking an MTO-approved Beginner Driver Education Course at a driving school, G1 Licence holders may qualify for a four-month reduction in the 12-month minimum G1-licensing period as well as a potential reduction in insurance premiums as long as the course is ministry-approved.
How do you choose a ministry-approved driver education course?
Not all driving schools offer ministry-approved beginner driver education courses. Look for schools that offer MTO-approved beginner driver education courses? or ministry-approved beginner driver education courses?
** This information was taken from the Ministry of transportation of Ontario website. For further information on Ontario drivers Licences or vehicle licensing in Ontario please go to their website at
http://www.mto.gov.on.ca/english/index.html