How many questions are on the Ontario G1 permit test and what does it cover?

The Ontario G1 permit test has 40 multiple-choice questions. The exam is divided into two equal sections of 20 questions each.

Question Content and Test Structure

• ? The permit test question count is fixed at 40, but the specific questions are not.
• ? The system pulls from a pool of over 200 verified questions based on the MTO Driver's Handbook.
• ? This ensures every test is unique.

• Question Format: All questions are multiple-choice. There are no true/false questions.
• Question Categories: The 40 questions are split evenly between identifying traffic signs and understanding Ontario's rules of the road.
• Random vs. Fixed: While the total number of questions on the permit exam is fixed (40), the specific questions you receive are randomly selected from the larger pool.

A common question format presents an image of a road sign and asks you to select its correct meaning from four multiple-choice options.

Another format describes a driving scenario, such as approaching a 4-way stop, and asks you to identify who has the right-of-way.

Questions often list specific fines or demerit points for violations, like the penalty for failing to stop for a school bus, and you must select the correct consequence.

Are Ontario G1 road signs and road rules tested in separate sections?

Yes. The G1 knowledge test is split into two sections: 20 road-sign questions and 20 rules-of-the-road questions. Each section is scored separately, so you must meet the passing standard in both.

How many answer choices does each Ontario G1 question have?

The test is multiple-choice. The MTO's official sample questions use four answer choices per question, which is the format applicants should expect when practising.

Does every Ontario G1 applicant get the same questions?

No public source says every applicant receives the same live questions. DriveTest and the MTO publish the test structure and study topics, not the live question bank, so prepare for the rules and signs rather than memorizing one fixed set.

Differences by Test Version

The permit test number of questions is the same for most applicants, but the process differs for specific cases.

• New Applicants & Reinstatements: All new drivers and those reinstating a licence expired 3-10 years take the full 40-question test.
• Senior Renewals (80+): Drivers aged 80+ typically complete a cognitive and vision test instead of the written exam. They may be required to take the written test if concerns arise.
• Retests: If you fail one section, you only retake that 20-question section, not the full permit test.

Can you skip a G1 test question and come back to it? On computerized knowledge-test kiosks, DriveTest says applicants can skip or repeat questions as needed. Paper tests do not use the same on-screen controls.

Ontario G1 Test Length and Timing

The Ontario G1 knowledge test is not timed. Most applicants finish in about 20–30 minutes, but you must complete testing before the centre closes.

Keep detailed score rules in the dedicated Passing Score guide and detailed road-sign coverage in the Road Sign Questions guide.

Average Completion Time and Operational Limits

DriveTest recommends arriving at least one hour before the office closes. The knowledge test itself has no fixed timer.

• Ordinary failed attempt: You may pay the $16 fee and try again, subject to the centre having enough time to complete another attempt before closing.
• Cheating or disruption: DriveTest requires the applicant to wait until the following day before trying again.

For the full timing and break rules, use the dedicated Test Time Limit article. Official guidance: https://drivetest.ca/tests/knowledge-tests/