How to Prepare for the MTO Driving Test in Ontario

Passing the MTO (Ministry of Transportation) driving test in Ontario is a milestone toward independence — but it can feel daunting if you don’t prepare properly. Whether you’re getting ready for the written knowledge exam (G1) or the in-vehicle road test (G2 / G), a structured strategy and plenty of practice can make the difference. Below, we walk you through everything you need to know to succeed — from studying materials to test-day tips.

Understanding Ontario’s Graduated Licensing System

Ontario uses a graduated licensing system to help new drivers build experience gradually.

• G1 — Written / Learner Stage: You must pass a written knowledge test and a vision test. After that, you drive only under restrictions (e.g., supervised).

• G2 — First Road Test: You must hold G1 for a minimum period (commonly 12 months, or 8 months with approved driver education). The G2 test focuses on city driving skills.

• G / Full Licence: After holding G2 for a certain time and accumulating driving experience (including highway driving), you take a more advanced road test (sometimes called the “G test”) which tests highway skills and more complex maneuvers.

Knowing exactly which test you’re preparing for helps you tailor your study and practice.

Steps to Prepare for the MTO Driving Test

1 Study the Official MTO Driver’s Handbook

The driver’s handbook is your foundation. It covers rules of the road, traffic signs, signals, right-of-way, parking rules, highway driving, and more.

• Read thoroughly, highlight key sections, and make summary notes

• Especially focus on warning signs, regulatory signs, speed limits, demerit systems, and safe driving practices

2 Use Practice Tests & Sample Questions

Practice tests simulate the real exam environment and help you identify weak areas.

• The G1 knowledge test has 40 multiple-choice questions: 20 on rules, 20 on road signs. You must correctly answer at least 16 in each section to pass.

• Many online platforms offer sample quizzes built from past MTO / DriveTest question banks.

• Go through full practice exams under timed and untimed conditions

3 Take Driver Training & Professional Lessons

A certified driving instructor can guide you in applying theory to real road scenarios, correcting errors early, and building safe habits.

• Completing a Ministry-approved beginner driver education (BDE) course can reduce your waiting period between licensing stages by 4 months.

• Instructors often know common mistakes test-takers make and typical test routes

4 Log Highway / Expressway Experience

For the G / full road test, highway driving is typically part of the assessment. You’ll need real experience handling merging, lane changing, high speeds, and highway exits.

• If you live in a city, schedule practice sessions on nearby highways during less busy times

• Learn to anticipate gaps, speed differential, and safe merging

5 Learn the Testing Routes & Local Conditions

While test routes change, many test centres use similar roads, intersections, and traffic conditions repeatedly.

• Drive around the test centre’s area and practice turning, intersections, lane changes, parking

• Practice in different weather and light conditions

• Study local timing (rush hours, traffic patterns)

6 Prepare the Vehicle & Paperwork

On test day, not everything is about driving skill — you must satisfy technical requirements too.

• The vehicle must be in good working order: lights, brakes, signals, mirrors, tires, horn, etc.

• The vehicle must be licensed, insured, and registered

• Bring identification, license fees, your G1 / G2 permit, and any required documents

• Arrive 30 minutes early to allow check-in and paperwork

7 Mental & Physical Readiness

• Sleep well the night before

• Avoid stimulants (coffee) in excess

• Eat a light meal — not hungry, not too full

• Stay calm and focused; anxiety can lead to hesitation or errors

• Do visualization—imagine the route, maneuvers, and safe driving

What to Expect on Test Day

1 Knowledge / Written (G1) Test

• No appointment required in most cases; tests run first-come, first-served.

• It takes ~30 minutes.

• You’ll answer 40 multiple-choice questions (20 signs + 20 rules). You need at least 16 correct in each section.

• If you fail, you can retake (usually after paying a retest fee).

2 Road Tests (G2 / G)

• The examiner will explain the test route and what is expected before starting

• You will be assessed on maneuvers like driving through intersections, turns, lane changes, parallel parking, three-point turns, reversing, and highway driving (for full test)

• Do not use driver aids (lane assist, cruise control, etc.) during test.

• The examiner may ask you to perform additional maneuvers

• At the end, you’ll receive a score sheet with feedback, and whether you passed or failed

Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them

Final Checklist & Tips

• Read and re-read the official MTO Driver’s Handbook

• Complete full-length practice tests and correct weak areas

• Take professional driving lessons and feedback

• Accumulate highway driving experience

• Practice around the test centre’s area

• Inspect your vehicle thoroughly

• Bring required ID, proof, permit, and insurance

• Arrive early, rested, and calm

Bonus Tip: Before turning on the engine during the exam, do a quick safety check — seatbelt, mirrors, signals, lights, and adjust mirrors/seat. First impressions matter.

Conclusion & Call to Action

Preparing well is your best chance to pass on the first attempt. At Gold Star Driving, we guide learners through each stage of the MTO test process—with tailored lessons, mock test drives, and detailed feedback.

If you’re ready to sharpen your driving skills and approach the MTO test with confidence, contact us today or enroll in our MTO test preparation package.