From G2 to a Full G Licence
The full G road test is the final milestone in Ontario's Graduated Licensing System. Pass it and every novice restriction disappears — you become a fully licensed driver. The main difference from the G2 test is one big addition: highway driving. This guide explains what to expect and how to be ready.
Quick summary: The full G test is longer than the G2 and includes higher-speed roads such as highways or expressways. Examiners assess merging, lane changes at speed, and confident, smooth control in faster traffic. You can take it after holding your G2 for at least 12 months.
When you can take the full G test
You must hold your G2 for at least 12 months before booking the full G road test. There's no rush — but driving regularly during that year, especially on highways, is the best preparation you can do.
What the test involves
The full G test is typically longer than the G2 (around 30 minutes) and is the only test that includes high-speed driving. Depending on the test centre, this means a highway, expressway or other fast road. Expect to demonstrate:
- Merging onto a highway — matching speed and blending smoothly with traffic.
- Lane changes at highway speeds — with full mirror and blind-spot checks.
- Maintaining safe following distances at speed.
- Exiting the highway safely and adjusting speed appropriately.
- All the everyday city skills from your G2 test, too.
If your local test centre has no nearby highway, the examiner will use the fastest available roads to assess high-speed driving.
What examiners are really watching
- Confident merging. Hesitating or stopping on an on-ramp is a common, serious mistake. Use the ramp to build speed and merge decisively.
- Smooth speed management. Keep pace with traffic safely without sudden braking or acceleration.
- Thorough observation. At higher speeds, checking mirrors and blind spots early matters even more.
- Lane discipline. Stay in the correct lane and don't drift.
Practise highways before test day. Many G2 drivers avoid highways out of nerves — then struggle on the full G test. Build comfortable highway experience well in advance, ideally in different traffic and weather conditions.
After you pass
Passing the full G test removes all novice restrictions. You'll be able to:
- Drive with any blood-alcohol level up to the legal limit (though staying well under is always the safest choice).
- Carry passengers without novice limits.
- Drive at any time without graduated-licensing curfews.
A full G licence is also when many drivers see insurance costs begin to ease, as you now have a longer, established driving record. Learn more in our guide to car insurance for new drivers.
Congratulations in advance! Reaching a full G means years of building real-world experience. Keep practising good habits — see our defensive driving guide to keep your record clean.