How does Ontario’s graduated licensing system work?
Before we dive into mandatory car insurance coverage for G2 drivers in Ontario, let us first explain how the province’s graduated licensing system works. Ontario has three levels to its licensing program: G1, G2, and G.
- Level one: After you pass a written test that tests your knowledge of the road, you will be granted a G1 license.
- Level two: You will be granted a G2 licence only once you successfully complete the G2 road test, which can be taken no sooner than eight to twelve months after you obtain a G2 licence.
- Level three: You will receive a full G licence once you pass your second road test, the G road test (which includes highway driving).
The G2 road test
Passing the G2 road test requires regular practice and careful preparation. The first step to taking the G2 road test is booking it. This can be done over the phone, online, or in person at a DriveTest Centre in Ontario. Keep in mind that you are only eligible to book a G2 road test if you are a G1 licence holder that received your G1 twelve months prior (or eight months prior if you completed an approved driving program).
On the day of the test, bring a car with you (it can be a family member’s car or even a driving instructor’s car) and arrive at the DriveTest Centre 30 minutes before your scheduled appointment. Have the necessary documents ready and wait for your name to be called.
When your name is called, you will follow the examiner outside and lead them to your vehicle. From there, the examiner will explain what to expect and the test will commence. The purpose of the G2 road test is to assess your basic driving skills and comfort level at driving on non-highway roads.
Therefore, during the test, you should expect to perform manoeuvres like parking, reversing, parallel parking, turning (including three-point turns), stopping, passing, changing lanes, and more. As you complete these manoeuvres, the examiner will assess your ability to follow the rules of the road and practice safe driving behaviour.
The G2 road test will last approximately 20 minutes, and once you’re safely back in the parking lot and the engine is off, the examiner will inform you of your grade (pass or fail). Please note that the fee for the G2 road test is included in your G1 licence packaging, which is valid for six years from the date of payment. If you fail your first G2 road test, you will need to pay $53.75 each time you need to retake it.
G2 driver’s licence restrictions
By now, you are probably familiar with Ontario licence restrictions, especially since you would have been subject to several as a G1 driver. Now that you are a G2 licence holder, there are fewer restrictions but still some to be aware of.
As with your G1 licence, your blood alcohol level must be zero at all times while driving. Similarly, you are prohibited from driving with any cannabis or drugs in your system. G2 drivers are also personally responsible for ensuring that all passengers in their vehicles are wearing seatbelts while the car is on.
Furthermore, during the first six months of holding your G2 licence if you are 19 years old or younger, you can only carry one passenger who is 19 years old or younger. After six months or when you turn 20, whichever comes first, you can carry up to three passengers in your vehicle who are 19 years old or younger.
What to do after you pass the G2 road test
Congratulations - you’ve passed the G2 road test! Now you’re officially a G2 driver. What you should do is as follows. First, carefully read through the restrictions and limitations for G2 licence holders to ensure you comply with them at all times. Second, notify your insurance provider that you’ve completed your G2 test, as you might receive a discount on your premium for achieving this milestone.
Once you’ve notified your insurance company and confirmed you are covered, it’s time to hit the road. With this new level of freedom, driving has probably never been more exciting. Driving regularly can help you hone your skills while allowing you to practice before you take the final G road test.
