Toronto

1. Types of Driver’s Licenses in Ontario (Including Toronto)

In Ontario, licenses are categorized based on the type of vehicle you intend to drive. The most common types are:

G Class Licenses (Passenger Vehicles)

• G1 License: Learner’s permit for cars, vans, and small trucks.
• G2 License: Intermediate license with fewer restrictions than G1.
• Full G License: Full, unrestricted license for passenger vehicles.

Other Classes

• M Class: For motorcycles, with subcategories for mopeds and scooters.
• Commercial Licenses:
  • Class A: Tractor-trailers.
  • Class B: School buses.
  • Class C: Regular buses.
  • Class D: Heavy trucks.
  • Class E: Smaller school buses.
  • Class F: Ambulances and smaller buses.
  • Class Z: Air brake endorsement (required for certain commercial vehicles).

For this guide, we’ll focus on the G Class License, as it is the most relevant for passenger vehicle drivers in Toronto.

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2. Steps to Obtain a G Class Driver’s License

The process to obtain a G Class license in Ontario follows a graduated licensing system with three stages: G1, G2, and Full G.

Step 1: Obtain a G1 License

1. Eligibility:

   • Must be at least 16 years old.
   • Pass a vision test and a written knowledge test.

2. Written Knowledge Test:

   • Covers road signs, rules of the road, and safe driving practices.
   • Available in multiple languages.
   • Study materials: The Ontario Driver’s Handbook (available online or in bookstores).

3. Restrictions for G1 Drivers:

   • Must drive with a fully licensed driver (minimum 4 years of G experience) in the passenger seat.
   • No driving between midnight and 5 a.m.
   • No alcohol in your system while driving.
   • Cannot drive on 400-series highways or high-speed expressways.

4. Cost:

   • G1 Package Fee: $159.75 (includes the knowledge test, vision test, and your first road test attempt for G2).

5. Where to Apply:

   • Visit a DriveTest Centre (locations listed below).
   • Bring required documents (see Section 5).

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Step 2: Obtain a G2 License

1. Eligibility:

   • Hold a G1 license for at least 12 months (or 8 months if you complete an approved driver education course).
   • Pass a G2 road test (basic driving skills).

2. G2 Road Test:

   • Tests basic driving skills such as turning, parking, and obeying traffic signs.
   • Conducted on city streets.

3. Restrictions for G2 Drivers:

   • No alcohol in your system while driving.
   • Limited number of passengers under 19 (depending on the time of day and your driving experience).

4. Cost:

   • Road Test Fee: Included in the G1 package fee. If you need to retake the test, it costs $53.75.

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Step 3: Obtain a Full G License

1. Eligibility:

   • Hold a G2 license for at least 12 months.
   • Pass a G road test (advanced driving skills).

2. G Road Test:

   • Tests advanced driving skills, including highway driving, merging, and lane changes.

3. Cost:

   • Road Test Fee: $91.25.

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3. Total Costs for G Class Licensing

• G1 Package Fee: $159.75 (includes G1 knowledge test, vision test, and first G2 road test attempt).
• G2 Road Test Retake Fee: $53.75 (if needed).
• G Road Test Fee: $91.25.
• Driver’s License Renewal Fee: $90 (every 5 years).

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4. Testing Requirements

Vision Test:

• Conducted at the DriveTest Centre.
• Ensure you bring your prescription glasses or contact lenses if needed.

Knowledge Test:

• 40 multiple-choice questions (20 on road signs, 20 on rules of the road).
• Passing score: 80% (16/20 in each section).

Road Tests:

• G2 Road Test: Focuses on basic driving skills.
• G Road Test: Focuses on advanced driving skills, including highway driving.

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5. Documentation Needed

When applying for a G1 license, you must bring:

1. Proof of Identity:
   • Passport, Canadian citizenship card, or permanent resident card.
2. Proof of Legal Name and Date of Birth:
   • Birth certificate or immigration documents.
3. Proof of Residency in Ontario:
   • Utility bill, bank statement, or rental agreement.

Ensure all documents are original and not expired.

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6. Key Locations in Toronto

DriveTest Centres in Toronto:

1. Etobicoke DriveTest Centre:

   • Address: 5555 Eglinton Ave W, Unit B, Etobicoke, ON M9C 5M1.
   • Services: Knowledge tests, road tests, license renewals.
   • Note: This is one of the busiest locations; book appointments early.

2. Downsview DriveTest Centre:

   • Address: 37 Carl Hall Rd, Unit 2, Toronto, ON M3K 2E2.
   • Services: Knowledge tests, road tests, license renewals.

3. Metro East DriveTest Centre:

   • Address: 1448 Lawrence Ave E, Unit 15, Toronto, ON M4A 2V6.
   • Services: Knowledge tests, road tests, license renewals.

Tips for Booking Road Tests:

• Use the official DriveTest website (https://drivetest.ca/) to book appointments.
• Road tests can be booked up to 6 months in advance.
• Avoid peak times (e.g., weekends) to reduce wait times.

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7. Local Considerations and Tips for Toronto

1. Traffic Conditions:

   • Toronto has heavy traffic, especially during rush hours (7–9 a.m. and 4–6 p.m.).
   • Practice driving in various conditions, including highways like the 401 and 404.

2. Winter Driving:

   • Toronto experiences snowy and icy conditions in winter.
   • Consider taking a winter driving course to prepare for these challenges.

3. Public Transit as an Alternative:

   • Toronto has an extensive public transit system (TTC), which may reduce the need for a car in the city.

4. Driver Education Courses:

   • Completing a Ministry-approved driver education course can reduce your G1 waiting period from 12 months to 8 months.
   • Popular schools in Toronto include Young Drivers of Canada and All Star Driving School.

5. Parking in Toronto:

   • Parking can be expensive and limited in downtown Toronto. Familiarize yourself with parking rules and consider using apps like Green P for parking availability.

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By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to obtain your driver’s license in Toronto. Good luck, and drive safely!