Your teenager can apply for a G1 license at 16 by passing a vision test and a knowledge test. Ontario’s graduated system then outlines the five phases, when you reach each stage, and how much independence you gain. This guide covers the rules, what lessons teach, and what you can do at home.
Stage | How you get there | What to know as a parent |
G1 | Age 16, vision test, knowledge test | Must drive with an experienced licensed driver. Zero blood alcohol. No 400 series highways above 80 km/h unless the accompanying driver is a certified instructor. |
G2 | 8 months on a G1 with an approved course, or 12 without, then a road test | Can drive alone. Zero blood alcohol. If under 19, passenger limits apply between midnight and 5 a.m. |
G | 12 months on a G2, then a second road test | Most restrictions end. |
The five phases start with G1, where the driver must be accompanied by a fully licensed driver with at least four years of driving experience. Next is G2: under-19 drivers may carry one passenger aged 19 or under for the first six months, then up to three. Immediate family members are exempt. Tell your insurer as soon as a G1 driver is in the household.
Ontario introduced graduated licensing in 1994. An early evaluation covering 1993 to 1996 found novice driver collisions down 31 percent and injury and fatality rates down 24 percent. These are older figures from a government summary, but the principle holds. Learning in steps, with limits, works.
What beginner lessons cover
The first lesson is not about traffic. It covers seat position, mirrors, hand placement, and how the car responds to light pedal pressure. After that, lessons move through quiet streets, intersections, busier roads, and highways. A good instructor adjusts the pace to the student, not a schedule.
Most families structure their training around the BDE course. It combines 30 hours of online learning with in-car training, and we offer it in three tiers. Our approach is simple: no rushing, no pressure, and no judgment. Some students pick it up quickly. Others need more time and encouragement, and that is fine.
If your teen already has some seat time, the Regular package (10 in-car hours) may be enough. If they are starting from zero, or a road test date is already booked, Advanced (12 hours) or Premium (15 hours) gives more runway. You can compare them on our BDE program and pricing page, or read our analysis of whether it is worth it.
If you live in or near Peel, our Brampton driving lessons page covers local details, and we include pick-up and drop-off across our service area.
To get started, register here today, or call or text 647 407 5665 now.
