G1 Test Ontario: Format, Cost & Pass Mark
The Ontario G1 test is a 40-question, computer-based knowledge exam given at DriveTest centres, split into two 20-question sections: rules of the road and traffic signs. To pass, you need at least 80% correct (16 of 20) on each section separately, not just an overall average. Below is exactly what to expect, what it costs, and what to bring on test day.
Key takeaways
- 40 questions total: 20 on rules of the road, 20 on road signs.
- You must score at least 80% on each section on its own, a great score on one section can't make up for a weak score on the other.
- The G1 knowledge test fee is a small provincial charge set by MTO, separate from your G2 and G road test fees.
- A health card cannot be used as ID for the test, bring other acceptable identification.
- Passing gives you a G1 licence valid for 5 years, letting you begin supervised driving practice right away.
How Many Questions Are on the Ontario G1 Test?
The G1 test has 40 multiple-choice questions total, delivered on a computer at your local DriveTest centre. It's split into two distinct parts: 20 questions on the rules of the road (right-of-way, speed limits, safe following distance, and general driving law) and 20 questions on road and traffic signs. Most people finish in well under the allotted time, since the format is straightforward multiple choice rather than written answers.
What Score Do You Need to Pass the G1 Test?
You need to answer at least 80% correctly, that's 16 out of 20, on each section independently. This trips up a surprising number of people, because MTO doesn't blend the two scores together. If you get 20/20 on signs but only 14/20 on rules of the road, you still fail overall, since the rules-of-the-road section fell below 80%. The practical takeaway: study both sections evenly rather than leaning on whichever one feels easier.
How Much Does the G1 Test Cost in Ontario?
The G1 knowledge test fee is a modest, government-set charge that's separate from the road test fees you'll pay later for your G2 and G tests. Because it's a computer-based knowledge test rather than an in-car evaluation, it's priced lower than the road tests. Provincial fees are reviewed periodically, so always confirm the current amount on the official DriveTest booking site before you go, rather than relying on a number you saw somewhere else.
What Do You Need to Bring to Your G1 Test?
Bring acceptable identification that confirms your legal name, signature, and date of birth, DriveTest typically asks for two pieces of ID. One important note: a health card cannot be used as ID for a driver's licence test in Ontario, even though it's accepted in many other situations. If you wear glasses or contacts for driving, bring them, since you'll also complete a short vision screening before the knowledge test.
How Do You Prepare for the G1 Test?
Start with the official MTO driver's handbook, then work through practice questions until you're consistently scoring above 80% on both sections, not just memorizing answers, but actually understanding why each rule or sign exists. That distinction matters once you're behind the wheel, and it's the difference between walking into DriveTest anxious and walking in confident that you already know the material cold. If you'd rather follow a structured study plan instead of piecing one together yourself, our G1 knowledge preparation program walks through both sections in detail.
What Happens After You Pass the G1 Test?
Once you pass, you're issued a G1 licence valid for 5 years. You can start practicing right away, but only with a fully licensed supervising driver in the front passenger seat who has at least 4 years of driving experience, and your own blood alcohol level must stay at zero. From there, you'll need to hold your G1 for a minimum of 12 months before booking your G2 road test, or as little as 8 months if you complete an approved beginner driver education (BDE) course. If you don't pass the knowledge test on your first attempt, you can rebook and try again; there's no cap on the number of attempts, though the fee applies each time.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many questions are on the G1 test in Ontario?
The G1 test has 40 questions total, divided into two 20-question sections: rules of the road and road signs.
What is the passing mark for the G1 test?
You need at least 80% correct, 16 out of 20, on each section separately, not just an overall average across both sections.
How much does the G1 knowledge test cost?
The G1 test carries a small provincial fee set by MTO, lower than the G2 and G road test fees. Confirm the current amount on the official DriveTest site before booking, since government fees can change.
What ID do I need for the G1 test?
Bring two pieces of acceptable identification showing your name, signature, and date of birth. A health card cannot be used as ID for a driver's licence test in Ontario.
Can I retake the G1 test if I fail?
Yes. You can rebook and rewrite the G1 knowledge test with no limit on the number of attempts, though you'll pay the test fee again each time.
How long does a G1 licence last?
A G1 licence is valid for 5 years from the date you pass the knowledge test, giving you plenty of time to progress to your G2 and full G licence.
Ready to turn your G1 pass into real confidence behind the wheel? Check out our Programs and Fees page to find the right in-car and BDE package for you, and see our G1 knowledge preparation program for a structured way to study before test day.