Your Ontario DriveTest Document Checklist: What to Bring for Your G1, G2, and G Tests
A trip to a DriveTest Centre in Ontario is a major step in your driving journey. Whether you're writing your G1 test or taking your G2 or G road test, the last thing you want is to be turned away because of missing or incorrect paperwork. The documentation requirements are strict, and there are no exceptions.
To ensure your appointment is smooth and successful, use this complete document checklist. We've broken it down by appointment type so you can be confident you have everything you need.
The Most Important Rule: Originals Only!
Before we begin, remember this critical rule: you must bring original documents. Photocopies, expired documents, or digital pictures on your phone will not be accepted.
Checklist 1: Applying for Your G1 License
This is your first visit to a DriveTest Centre and has the strictest identity requirements. You must apply in person and cannot book an appointment. You will need documents that prove your legal name, date of birth, and signature.
[ ] Proof of Identity (One primary document OR a combination of documents):
- Option A: Bring ONE of the following original documents:
- Valid Canadian Passport
- Canadian Citizenship Card with photo
- Permanent Resident (PR) Card
- Secure Certificate of Indian Status
- Option B: Bring an original Canadian Birth Certificate PLUS one of the following:
- Valid foreign passport
- Permanent resident card
- Record of landing
- Student authorization/study permit
- Option A: Bring ONE of the following original documents:
[ ] Proof of Signature: Your chosen identity document may already have your signature. If not, you'll need a separate original document with your signature, like a valid passport or a signed bank card.
[ ] Parental Consent (if under 18): A parent or legal guardian must accompany you to provide written consent.
[ ] Payment for Fees: You will need to pay a package fee that covers the written test, your first road test attempt, and a five-year licensing term. DriveTest centres accept cash, debit, credit (Visa, MasterCard), and certified cheques.
[ ] Corrective Lenses: If you wear glasses or contact lenses, bring them with you. You will be required to take a vision test on the spot.
Checklist 2: Your G2 or G Road Test Appointment
For your practical road tests, you need to provide documentation for yourself and for the vehicle you'll be using for the test.
[ ] Your Current Ontario Driver's License:
- For a G2 test, you need your valid, physical G1 license card.
- For a G road test, you need your valid, physical G2 license card.
- Important: You cannot use a temporary paper license for a road test.
[ ] Valid Vehicle Permit (Registration): The original green permit slip for the vehicle. Ensure it is not expired and that the license plate on the permit matches the car's plate.
[ ] Valid Insurance Liability Card (Pink Slip): The original, unexpired insurance card for the vehicle. The name on the policy should correspond with the vehicle owner.
[ ] Corrective Lenses: If your license has a condition "X" (must wear glasses/contacts), you must be wearing them. The examiner will check.
[ ] Payment for Licensing Fee (After you pass): While your test fee is pre-paid when you book, you will need to pay for your new license card after you successfully pass your test. Be prepared with a payment method.
Checklist 3: Exchanging an Out-of-Country License
If you are a new resident with a license from a country that does not have a reciprocal exchange agreement with Ontario, you will need to provide specific documents to get credit for your experience.
- [ ] Your Original, Valid Foreign Driver's License.
- [ ] Official, Certified Translation (if applicable): If your license is not in English or French, you need a certified translation.
- [ ] Proof of Identity Documents: The same requirements as applying for a G1 license.
- [ ] Official Letter of Authentication / Driver's Abstract: You may need an official letter from the licensing authority in your home country that confirms you held a valid license and for how long. This is crucial for bypassing parts of the graduated licensing system.
Taking a few minutes to organize these documents in a folder the night before your appointment can save you a huge amount of time and stress. A prepared applicant is a successful applicant.
