What happens at the DriveTest Centre when getting a G1 licence in Ontario?
- Getting your G1 licence involves a vision test and a knowledge test at a DriveTest centre.
- The entire visit takes 2 to 3 hours.
- Tuesday to Thursday mornings (10 AM, 2 PM) often have the fastest turnaround times.
Step-by-Step Walkthrough
Can a parent or another person come inside with a G1 applicant?
A parent or support person can come to the centre, but staff may control who remains at the counter or in the testing area. The applicant must complete the identity, vision, photo/signature, and knowledge-test steps personally. If you need an accommodation, tell staff before testing.
Do you receive your temporary G1 before leaving DriveTest? Yes, after you meet the G1 requirements. DriveTest issues a temporary paper driver's licence that lets you drive under G1 conditions while the plastic photo card is mailed. The temporary licence is valid for up to 90 days. See DriveTest Class G licensing steps.
Check in, submit ID, pass vision test, pay fee, take the knowledge test, collect temporary licence if you pass.
- Check-in (Reception/Kiosk):
Go to the reception desk or a self-serve kiosk. - You will get a ticket number (e.g., A-001) that tracks your progress.
- Bring original, unexpired identification documents; digital copies or photocopies are rejected.
2. Document Verification:
A customer service agent checks your accepted original identification and application form. Detailed document requirements belong in the Required Documents article.
- Fee Payment:
Pay the $159.75 G1 licence package fee. - This covers the knowledge test, your future G2 road test, and your five-year driver's licence card.
- A re-test after failing the written test costs $16.00.
4. Photo & Signature Capture:
Take your official photo and provide a digital signature before the knowledge test. Remove non-religious headwear and glasses for the photo.
- Vision Screening:
Read an eye chart through a telescopic device. - You need at least 20/50 visual acuity (glasses/contacts allowed) and 120 degrees of peripheral vision.
- Failing requires a Form SR-LC-055 from an optometrist.
- Written Knowledge Test:
Take the on-site G1 knowledge test at the testing station. Detailed question counts, scoring and topic coverage belong in the Permit Test Format article.
7. Permit Issuance:
After a passing score, return to the counter for your temporary paper G1 licence. It is valid immediately for driving with a licensed accompanying driver who has at least 4 years of experience and a blood alcohol level under 0.05%.
If You Fail the Knowledge Test During Your Visit
If you fail the knowledge test, you may pay the $16.00 retest fee and try again. A normal failed attempt does not automatically require waiting until the next day; another attempt depends on available testing time before the centre closes.
Detailed retake rules and failure scenarios belong in the dedicated Failed & Retakes article.
After Your G1 Visit: Restrictions and Unfinished Applications
- Zero Tolerance: Maintain a 0.00% blood alcohol concentration (BAC) at all times while driving.
- The Waiting Period: Hold the G1 for 12 months before scheduling a G2 road test (8 months with an approved BDE course).
- Road Restrictions: No driving on 400-series highways or high-speed expressways unless with a licensed driving instructor.
- Curfew: No driving between midnight and 5:00 a.m.
What happens if DriveTest cannot finish your G1 application that day?
If the centre closes or a required step cannot be completed, ask staff what remains outstanding before you leave. You may need to return to finish the application or test. Keep any receipt or temporary paperwork you are given so the next visit starts from the correct point.
DriveTest Timing and What to Bring
Wait times vary by centre, day and current queue. Check your chosen DriveTest centre before travelling; detailed location hours, busy periods and best-time guidance belong in the DriveTest Hours & Best Times article.
- Bring the accepted original documents required for your application.
- Wear your corrective lenses for the vision screening if you normally need them.
- Report testing-equipment problems to staff before submitting the knowledge test.
