Ontario licence guide
G2 vs G licence in Ontario: what is the difference?
Understand what each licence stage allows, what each road test evaluates, and how to prepare for the next step in Ontario’s graduated licensing system.
A G2 licence lets you drive independently with novice-driver conditions. A full G licence is earned after the second road test and completes the graduated licensing process. The G2 road test checks foundational city-driving skills; the G road test evaluates more advanced driving, including major roads and expressways.
What is the difference between the G2 and G road tests?
Both tests require safe observation, control, and decision-making, but they represent different stages of driving experience.
G2 road test
The first road test, also called the G1 exit test. It focuses on everyday driving fundamentals such as turns, intersections, lane use, observation, parking, and vehicle control.
G road test
The second road test, also called the G2 exit test. It focuses on advanced driving, including major roads, expressway merging and exiting, lane changes, speed, space, and traffic decisions.
After you pass
Passing the G2 test gives you a G2 licence. Passing the G test gives you a full Class G licence and completes Ontario’s graduated licensing process.
Which preparation do you need?
Choose lessons based on the test you are actually taking and the skills that still need to become consistent.
- G2 preparation: observation routines, full stops, turns, lane position, parking, three-point turns, and residential or business-area driving
- G preparation: highway merging and exiting, lane changes, following distance, speed management, major intersections, and independent traffic decisions
- Mock-test feedback for either level
- Road-test vehicle support when booked in advance
- Targeted practice instead of repeating skills you already perform consistently
Frequently asked questions
Clear answers before you practise or book.
How long do I wait between G2 and G?
Ontario’s standard graduated-licensing guidance says new drivers can take the G road test after 12 months with a G2 licence. Confirm your individual eligibility with DriveTest.
Does the G test include highway driving?
Yes. Ontario describes the G test as covering advanced skills, including driving on major roads and expressways.
Is the G test simply a longer G2 test?
No. The G test places more emphasis on advanced traffic judgment, highway driving, speed and space management, and independent decisions.
Can an international driver follow a different path?
Previous driving experience may affect eligibility, but DriveTest must assess the documents and confirm the correct licensing path.
Prepare for the correct test
Tell us whether your appointment is for G2 or G and which skills you want to improve.
What is the difference between a G2 and a full G licence?
A G2 licence allows independent driving with novice-driver conditions. A full G licence completes Ontario’s graduated licensing process after the advanced road test.
| Comparison | G2 licence | Full G licence |
|---|---|---|
| Requirements to get it | Hold a G1 licence and pass the first road test after the required waiting period. Completing an approved BDE course can reduce the standard wait from 12 months to 8 months. | Hold a G2 licence for at least 12 months and pass the G road test. |
| What you are allowed to drive | You may drive independently on all Ontario roads and at any time in most cases. | You may drive Class G vehicles without G2 novice-licence conditions, subject to general driving laws and any conditions printed on your licence. |
| Restrictions | Zero alcohol and drugs are required. Every passenger needs a working seatbelt, and additional overnight passenger limits apply to G2 drivers aged 19 and under. | G2 novice conditions no longer apply. General impaired-driving laws still apply, and drivers aged 21 and under must maintain zero blood alcohol. |
| The road test | The first road test checks basic skills such as turns, stops, parking, lane changes, three-point turns, signs, and residential driving. | The second road test checks advanced skills, including major roads, expressway merging and exiting, speed, space, signalling, turns, and lane changes. |
| Typical next step | Build safe independent experience, practise highway driving, and prepare for the G road test. | Keep the licence valid and continue developing safe, defensive driving habits. |
Source: Ontario Ministry of Transportation driver licensing guidance. Check Ontario.ca or DriveTest for current individual eligibility.