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Ontario Driver's Handbook Summary

Sep 16, 2025,

Overview

This lecture introduces Ontario's driver's handbook, focusing on licensing requirements, the graduated licensing system, license classes, testing procedures, and guidance for both new and experienced drivers, particularly those new to Ontario.

Introduction to Ontario Driving

  • Ontario's Ministry of Transportation prioritizes road safety and driver education.
  • Most collisions are caused by driver error, such as speeding or not yielding right of way.
  • New drivers are at higher risk for accidents due to inexperience or overconfidence.
  • Professional driver instruction and experience are recommended for skill development.

Driver Licensing Requirements

  • Ontario residents must be at least 16 years old and have a valid Ontario driver’s license.
  • New residents can use a previous license for 60 days; afterward, they must apply for an Ontario license.
  • Visitors must be 16+, have a valid license, and an International Driving Permit if staying over 3 months.
  • There are 12 license classes in Ontario, each allowing operation of specific vehicle types.

License Classes and Key Rules

  • Class G: Most common, for cars, vans, and small trucks up to 11,000kg.
  • Other classes (A, B, C, D, E, F, M) are for trucks, buses, ambulances, motorcycles, etc.
  • G1 (level one) and G2 (level two) are part of the graduated licensing for new drivers.
  • G1 drivers require a fully licensed accompanying driver and face restrictions (e.g., no driving alone, no driving between midnight and 5 a.m., speed and highway limits).
  • G2 drivers can drive alone but must maintain zero blood alcohol and follow passenger restrictions, especially under age 20 and at night.

Applying for a License

  • Applicants must provide original, valid proof of legal name and date of birth.
  • Accepted documents: passport, citizenship card, permanent/temporary immigration documents, birth certificate, marriage certificate, and court orders.
  • Parent or guardian identification is not acceptable.

Testing and Graduated Licensing

  • G1: Minimum 12 months (or 8 with approved driving course); must pass knowledge and vision tests.
  • G1 Exit Test (for G2): Must bring ID, test fees, and a working vehicle.
  • G2: Minimum 12 months; zero BAC for drivers under 21; further restrictions apply for young drivers at night.
  • G2 Exit Test (for G): Must demonstrate highway driving experience; complete declaration form required.

Road Test Procedures and Fees

  • Road tests check practical driving skills and knowledge of road rules.
  • No driving aids allowed during the test (e.g., backup cameras, auto-parking).
  • Arrive 30 minutes early; missing/canceling tests with short notice may forfeit prepaid fees.
  • Out-of-order tests (due to vehicle/driver issues) lose 50% of the test fee.

New Ontario Residents & License Exchanges

  • License exchange agreements exist with specific countries; credit depends on documented experience.
  • Non-reciprocating countries: must pass vision, knowledge tests, and provide proof of experience.
  • Only recent (within 3 years) foreign driving experience counts.

Choosing a Driving School

  • Approved beginner driver education (BDE) courses must be 40 hours: 20 in-class, 10 in-vehicle, 10 flexible.
  • Driving schools and instructors must be ministry-approved.
  • Look for modern equipment, clear contracts, and positive references.
  • Successful BDE completion reduces level one time and may lower insurance premiums.

Key Terms & Definitions

  • Graduated Licensing System (GLS) — A two-step process (G1, G2) for new drivers to gain experience under restrictions.
  • BAC (Blood Alcohol Content) — The amount of alcohol in a person’s blood; must be zero for G1/G2 and all drivers under 21.
  • Class G License — License for cars, vans, and small trucks up to 11,000 kg.
  • G1/G2 — Levels in the graduated licensing for new drivers, each with specific restrictions.
  • International Driving Permit — Translation of a foreign license, required for visitors driving in Ontario over 3 months.

Action Items / Next Steps

  • Study the official MTO Driver’s Handbook before attempting the G1 knowledge test.
  • Gather and bring all required identification and applicable fees to the testing center.
  • Consider enrolling in an approved BDE course for faster progression and insurance benefits.
  • Review passenger and driving restrictions for G1/G2 drivers, especially if under 21.
  • Visit the Ministry of Transportation website for updated documentation and approved driving school lists.

Full transcript