FAQs
1. What is the minimum age to enrol in driving school in Ontario?
In Ontario, the minimum age to enroll in a driving school is typically 16 years old. However, individuals can start studying the official driver’s handbook and preparing for the written knowledge test at the age of 15 and a half.
2. Do I have to attend a driving school to get my driver's license in Ontario?
In Ontario, attending a driving school is not mandatory to get a driver’s license. However, completing a recognized driving education course can provide valuable knowledge and practice that may increase your chances of passing both the written and practical driving tests.
3. What is BDE course?
BDE stands for Beginner Driver Education. It’s a course designed to provide new drivers with the knowledge and skills needed to become safe and responsible drivers.
4. How many hours of in-class and in-car training are required?
In Ontario, individuals are encouraged to complete a government-approved Beginner Driver Education Course, which includes a minimum of 20 hours of classroom instruction and 10 hours of in-car training. This training is designed to provide foundational knowledge and practical skills for safe driving.
5. How long does it take to complete driving school in Ontario?
The duration of driving school in Ontario can vary depending on factors such as the schedule and pace of the course. Generally, the classroom portion of the Beginner Driver Education Course can be completed in about 4 to 6 weeks, with classes typically held several times a week. The in-car training portion may also take a few weeks to complete, depending on scheduling availability and individual progress. Overall, it often takes around 2 to 3 months to complete driving school in Ontario.
6. What documents do I need to enrol in driving school? / What documents do I need to apply for a driver’s license??
To enroll in driving school or to apply for a driver’s licence, you typically need:
- ID proof like passport or birth certificate
- Proof of residency (e.g., utility bill)
- Parental consent if under 18
- Payment for enrollment fees
- Contact the school for specific requirements
7. Can I do a course without G1?
Yes, you can enroll in a driving course even if you don’t have a G1 license yet. However, to start your in-car lessons, you have to have your G1 license.
8. How long will it take before I get my certificate?
The time it takes to receive your BDE course certificate varies. It typically depends on the driving school’s schedule and your progress in completing the course requirements. However, after issuing the certificate it may take 1-2 business days to get updated on your license record.
9. Where can the BDE certificate be picked up once the BDE program is completed?
In Ontario, once the BDE program is completed, you can pick up your BDE certificate from a ServiceOntario location.
10. How much Discount will I get on my Insurance with the BDE course certificate?
Insurance discounts for completing a BDE course vary but typically range from 5% to 15%.
11. How early can I go for my MTO road test?
You can typically schedule your MTO road test as soon as you feel ready and meet the eligibility requirements set by the Ministry of Transportation of Ontario (MTO).
12. How much does driving school cost in Ontario?
In Ontario, the cost of driving school typically ranges from $600 to $1,000 for a Beginner Driver Education Course, which includes both classroom and in-car training. Additional fees may apply for extra services like road test preparation.
13. Can I take the driving test without attending driving school?
Yes, you can take the driving test in Ontario without attending driving school. However, if you’re under 18, completing a government-approved Beginner Driver Education Course may shorten the waiting period for taking your road test and could also provide insurance discounts.
14. Is there a time limit to complete the driving test after completing driving school?
15. Is there a difference between defensive driving courses and regular driving lessons?
- Regular driving lessons primarily cover basic driving skills such as steering control, parking, and obeying traffic laws.
- Defensive driving courses go beyond basics, emphasizing techniques for anticipating hazards, maintaining safe distances, and reacting to adverse conditions effectively.
16. Do driving schools provide vehicles for the driving test?
Yes! Using a school vehicle for your driving test ensures added safety, as these cars are equipped with dual brakes. This feature allows your examiner to intervene if necessary, providing an extra layer of protection and confidence during your test. Be sure to inquire about this option with your driving school to make the most informed decision for your driving journey.
17. What happens if I fail the driving test?
If you fail the driving test in Ontario, you’ll receive feedback and can schedule another attempt after a waiting period of about 10 days. Keep practicing and don’t get discouraged!
18. Do driving schools provide insurance for learner drivers during lessons?
Yes, driving schools in Ontario generally provide insurance coverage for learner drivers during lessons. However, it’s advisable to confirm the details of insurance coverage with the driving school before enrolling.
19. How do I apply for a driver’s license in Ontario?
To apply for a driver’s license in Ontario:
- Pass vision test.
- Pass the G1 written test. (Wait for 12 months or 8 months to book G2)
- Take and pass the G2 road test.
- After holding your G2 license for a minimum period, take the final road test (G test) to obtain your full G license.
20. Do driving schools provide assistance with the written test preparation?
Yes, driving schools often assist with written test preparation, including practice tests and study materials. At GrayJays Driving School, we provide these resources to help our students succeed.
21. Can I use my own vehicle for in-car training sessions?
Generally, driving schools do not allow students to use their own vehicles for in-car training sessions due to safety concerns and the need for dual controls in the instructor’s vehicle for effective training.
22. What types of driver’s licenses are available in Ontario?
In Ontario, there are three main types of driver’s licenses:
- G1 License (learner’s permit)
- G2 License (probationary license)
- G License (full driver’s license)
23. How long does it take to get a driver’s license in Ontario?
It typically may take several months to obtain a driver’s license in Ontario, depending on factors like passing the written and road tests, completing driving school (if desired), and meeting the required waiting periods between license stages.
24. What restrictions are there for G1, G2, and G drivers in Ontario?
G1 License: Supervised driving, no alcohol, limited times.
G2 License: Limited passengers, no alcohol.
G License: No restrictions, follow all laws.
Elaborated:
G1 License (learner’s permit):
- Must have a fully licensed driver with at least four years of driving experience in the front passenger seat at all times.
- Zero blood alcohol concentration while driving.
- Limited to certain times of day for driving (e.g., no driving between midnight and 5 am).
G2 License (probationary license):
- Can drive without a fully licensed driver in the car, but with restrictions on the number of passengers and zero blood alcohol concentration.
- Can drive anytime, but still must adhere to the zero-blood alcohol concentration requirement.
G License (full driver’s license):
- No specific restrictions but must follow all traffic laws and regulations.
25. How many times can I take the G1 written test if I fail?
If you fail the G1 written test in Ontario, you can retake it as many times as needed. there is no waiting period to take another attempt at the G1 written test. However, additional fees may apply for each attempt.
26. Can international students enrol in driving school in Ontario?
Yes, international students can enroll in driving school in Ontario. They need to meet the same requirements as Canadian residents and ensure they have the appropriate visa status to study in Canada during their time in driving school.
27. How long is a driver’s license valid in Ontario?
In Ontario, a driver’s license is usually valid for five years before it requires renewal. If you do not obtain a G license before your G2 expires, you will need to retake both the G1 and G2 tests to obtain a new license.
28. How can I renew my driver’s license in Ontario?
To renew your driver’s license in Ontario:
- Visit a ServiceOntario location or renew online or by mail.
- Provide required documentation and pay the renewal fee.
- Complete any necessary vision or knowledge tests remaining.
- Receive your renewed driver’s license by mail or in person.
29. What do I do if I lose my driver’s license in Ontario?
- Report the loss to ServiceOntario or online.
- Apply for a replacement at a ServiceOntario location.
- Provide identification and pay the replacement fee.
- Receive your new driver’s license by mail or in person.
30. How do I exchange my out-of-province driver’s license for an Ontario driver’s license?
To exchange an out-of-province driver’s license for an Ontario driver’s license, you typically need to:
- Visit your nearest drive test centre.
- Provide identification and proof of residency.
- Surrender your current driver’s license.
- Pass a vision test, and any necessary driving tests or assessments, if required.
- Pay the license exchange fee.
- Receive your Ontario driver’s license.
31. Can I drive in Ontario with an international driver’s license?
Visitors to Ontario can typically drive with a valid international driver’s license for a limited period, usually up to 60-90 days.
32. Can I drive in Ontario with a driver’s license from another Canadian province?
You can drive in Ontario with a driver’s license from another Canadian province. However, it’s essential to ensure that your license is valid and not expired. Additionally, you must adhere to Ontario’s traffic laws and regulations while driving in the province.
33. Can I drive with a G1 license outside of Ontario?
While G1 licenses are generally only valid within Ontario, some provinces and countries may recognize them for certain purposes. It’s advisable to check with the specific jurisdiction you plan to visit for their regulations regarding G1 license holders driving in their area.
34. What is the process for upgrading from a G1 to a G2 license?
To upgrade from a G1 to a G2 license in Ontario:
- Hold your G1 license for at least 8-12 months.
- Pass the G2 road test. If you have an international driving license, you can take the test after obtaining your G1.
35. Is there a grace period to renew my driver’s license after it expires?
In Ontario, there is typically a grace period of up to 6 months to renew your driver’s license after it expires. However, it’s important to note that driving with an expired license is illegal, and you may face penalties if caught.
36. What should I do if I change my address after obtaining my driver’s license?
If you change your address after obtaining your driver’s license in Ontario, you must update your address information with ServiceOntario within 6 days of moving. You can update your address either online, by phone, by mail, or in person at a ServiceOntario location.
37. Can I use my driver’s license as a form of identification for non-driving purposes?
Yes, you can typically use your driver’s license as a form of identification for non-driving purposes in Ontario. It’s widely accepted as a valid form of identification for various transactions, such as opening a bank account, verifying age at establishments, or proving identity in other non-driving situations.
38. What is a graduated license?
A graduated license is a step-by-step system for new drivers, like in Ontario with G1, G2, and G levels, each with specific requirements and privileges.