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Ontario G1 overview

G1 study guide: key rules on all 19 topics

Free Ontario G1 study guide: 772 key points from the Official MTO Driver's Handbook in plain words, organised by topic, each topic linked to its practice questions.

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  • 19 topics
  • 751 key points
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This study guide collects our notes on every topic of the Ontario G1 Knowledge Test on one page: 772 short points in our own words, grouped by topic and by handbook section. Read it from top to bottom before your first practice test, or jump to a topic from the list below.

Each topic ends with a link to its practice questions, so you can check what you just read straight away, and a link to the official chapter for the full wording. The notes summarise the Official MTO Driver's Handbook from the Ontario Ministry of Transportation (MTO); they do not replace it, and where our notes and the official source differ, the official source wins.

Study these notes as flashcards →

Regulatory signs

Stop, yield, school zone and railway crossbuck shapes, permissive and prohibitive signs, no stopping, standing and parking, community safety zones, school bus and HOV lane signs.

Practise Regulatory signs questionsFlashcardsOfficial chapter

introduction (Ch. 3 Traffic signs and lights)

  • Signs do three jobs: tell you the law, warn of dangerous conditions, and help you find your way. Symbols, colours and shapes make them quick to identify.
  • Besides the four special-shape signs below, there are four kinds of signs: regulatory, warning, temporary condition, and information and direction.

Stop sign

  • Shape/colour: eight sides, red background, white letters.
  • Meaning: come to a complete stop.
  • Where to stop, in order: at the stop line if one is painted; if no stop line, at the crosswalk; if no crosswalk, at the edge of the sidewalk; if no sidewalk, at the edge of the intersection.
  • After stopping, wait until the way is clear before entering the intersection.

School zone sign

  • Shape/colour: five sides, fluorescent yellow/green background, black symbols.
  • Meaning: a school zone is coming. Slow down, use extra caution, watch for children.

Yield sign

  • Shape/colour: triangle, white background, red border.
  • Meaning: let traffic in the intersection or close to it go first; stop if needed; go only when the way is clear.

Railway crossing sign

  • Shape/colour: X-shaped, white background, red outline.
  • Meaning: railway tracks cross the road. Slow down, look both ways for trains, be ready to stop.

Regulatory signs

  • Purpose: give a direction that must be obeyed.
  • Usual look: rectangular or square; white or black background; black, white or coloured letters.
  • Green circle: you may or must do the activity shown inside the ring.
  • Red circle with a line through it: the activity shown is not allowed.
  • Bicycle route sign: road is an official bicycle route; watch for cyclists and be ready to share the road.
  • Permissive parking sign: you may park between the signs during the posted times (used in pairs or groups).
  • Snowmobile sign (regulatory): snowmobiles may use this road.
  • Do not enter this road.
  • No stopping (pairs/groups): you may not stop in the area between the signs, even for a moment.
  • No standing (pairs/groups): you may not stop between the signs except while loading or unloading passengers.
  • No parking (pairs/groups): you may not stop between the signs except to load or unload passengers or merchandise.
  • Strictness order: no stopping (nothing) > no standing (passengers only) > no parking (passengers or merchandise).
  • Prohibitions at intersections: no left turn; no driving straight through; no U-turn (turning to go the opposite direction); no right turn when facing a red light; no left turn during the times shown.
  • Accessible parking space: only for vehicles displaying a valid Accessible Parking Permit.
  • Separate curb-area sign: reserved for vehicles displaying a valid Accessible Person Parking Permit that are picking up / dropping off passengers with disabilities.
  • No bicycles on this road. No pedestrians on this road.
  • Keep to the right of the traffic island.
  • Speed limit changes ahead (listed as a regulatory sign).
  • Do not pass on this road.
  • Slow traffic on multi-lane roads must keep right.
  • Community safety zone: area where the community has identified a special risk to pedestrians; traffic offences in the zone get increased fines.
  • School-area speed sign: lower speed limit during school hours; obey the posted limit when the yellow lights are flashing.
  • Stop for school bus when its signals are flashing.
  • Sign on multi-lane highways with no centre median divider: drivers from BOTH directions must stop for a school bus with flashing signal lights.
  • Lane-use signs: above the road or on the pavement before an intersection; show the direction each lane must travel. Handbook example: lane 1 must turn left; lane 2 may turn left or go straight; lane 3 must turn right.
  • One-way: traffic may travel in one direction only.
  • Pedestrian crossover sign: be prepared to stop and yield right-of-way to pedestrians.
  • Two-way left-turn lane sign (above the road or on the ground): the lane is only for left turns, from both directions.
  • Reserved-lane signs: lanes only for specific vehicle types, all the time or during certain hours. Symbols include buses, taxis, vehicles with three or more people, and bicycles.
  • Keep right except when passing, on two-lane sections where climbing or passing lanes are provided.
  • Yield-to-bus sign on the back of transit buses: reminds drivers of the law — when a bus stopped at a dedicated bus stop has signalled it is returning to the lane, approaching vehicles must yield to it.
  • Road forks to the right.
  • School bus loading zone: zone where school buses load/unload WITHOUT using the red alternating lights and stop arm.

High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) signs

  • Ontario’s current HOV guidance normally requires at least two people, including the driver, in an ordinary car. Some vehicles, including motorcycles, licensed taxis, buses and vehicles with Ontario green licence plates, have exemptions. Follow the lane signs; a reserved-lane example in an older handbook is not a universal three-person rule.
  • Second HOV sign: no lane changes into or out of the HOV lane in this area.

Warning signs

Yellow diamond warning signs for curves, hills, merges, lane endings, crossings, animals and hazards, plus the slow-moving vehicle and long commercial vehicle placards.

Practise Warning signs questionsFlashcardsOfficial chapter

Warning signs

  • Purpose: warn of dangerous or unusual conditions ahead (e.g. curve, turn, dip, sideroad).
  • Usual look: diamond-shaped, yellow background, black letters or symbols.
  • Narrow bridge ahead.
  • Road branching off ahead.
  • Intersection ahead: the arrow shows which direction of traffic has the right-of-way.
  • Roundabout ahead: reduce speed; counter-clockwise arrows show the direction traffic travels in the roundabout.
  • Hidden sideroad: drivers on the sideroad at the intersection ahead don't have a clear view of traffic.
  • Pavement narrows ahead.
  • Slight bend or curve ahead.
  • Advisory speed tab: posted under a curve warning, shows the maximum safe speed for the curve.
  • Sharp bend or turn ahead.
  • Chevron (arrowhead) signs: posted in groups to guide drivers around sharp curves.
  • Winding road ahead.
  • Lift/swing bridge ahead: bridge lifts or swings to let boats pass.
  • Paved surface ends ahead.
  • Bicycle crossing ahead.
  • Stop sign ahead: slow down.
  • Two-way traffic: share the road with oncoming traffic.
  • Share the road sign: motorists must give safe space to cyclists and other vehicles; also warns motorists AND cyclists to use extra caution on the upcoming section.
  • Slippery when wet: slow down, drive with caution.
  • Hazard marker: hazard close to the road edge; the downward lines point to the side on which you may safely pass.
  • Divided highway begins: separated roads ahead, traffic in both directions; keep to the right-hand road; each road is one-way.
  • Right lane ends: if in the right lane, merge safely with traffic in the lane to the left.
  • Traffic lights ahead: slow down.
  • Steep hill ahead: you may need a lower gear.
  • Merge: two roads going the same direction join into one; drivers on BOTH roads share responsibility for a smooth, safe merge.
  • Snowmobiles cross this road (warning sign; compare the regulatory sign that says snowmobiles may use the road).
  • Divided highway ends: two-way traffic on the same road ahead; keep to the right-hand road.
  • Underpass ahead: take care in a tall vehicle; the sign shows how much room (clearance) there is.
  • Bump or uneven pavement ahead: slow down, keep control.
  • Railway crossing ahead: be alert for trains; the sign also shows the angle at which the tracks cross the road.
  • Checkerboard border sign: sharp turn or bend in the direction of the arrow; the checkerboard border warns of danger; slow down.
  • Deer regularly cross: be alert for animals.
  • Truck entrance: truck shown on the right = entrance on the right side ahead; truck shown on the left = entrance on the left.
  • Ramp advisory: shows the maximum safe speed on the ramp.
  • Pedestrians: watch for them and be ready to share the road.
  • Fallen rock: watch for it and be prepared to avoid a collision.
  • Water may be flowing over the road.
  • Hidden school bus stop ahead: slow down, extra caution, watch for children and for a school bus with flashing red lights.
  • Bus entrance on the right ahead: be prepared to yield to buses entering the road.
  • Fire truck entrance on the right ahead: be prepared to yield to fire trucks entering the road.
  • School crossing signs: watch for children; follow the directions of the crossing guard or school safety patroller.

Other signs (slow-moving vehicle)

  • Shape/colour: orange triangle with a red border.
  • Meaning: the vehicle will travel at 40 km/h or less.
  • Must be displayed (when on a road) by farm tractors, farm implements/machinery, and any vehicle not able to sustain speeds over 40 km/h.
  • Drivers: watch for these vehicles and reduce speed as needed.

Other signs (long commercial vehicle, LCV)

  • Placard on the rear identifies an LCV: a double-trailer truck up to 40 metres long.
  • When preparing to pass one on the highway, anticipate its extended length and limited speed.

Construction, information and direction signs

Orange temporary condition signs in work zones, doubled construction-zone fines, green guide signs, freeway exit numbering, emergency detour routes and bilingual signs.

Practise Construction, information and direction signs questionsFlashcardsOfficial chapter

Temporary condition signs

  • Purpose: warn of unusual temporary conditions — road work zones, diversions, detours, lane closures, traffic control people on the road.
  • Usual look: diamond-shaped, orange background, black letters or symbols.
  • Construction work one kilometre ahead.
  • Road work ahead.
  • Survey crew working on the road ahead.
  • Traffic control person ahead: drive slowly, watch for instructions.
  • Entering a construction zone: extra caution, be prepared for a lower speed limit.
  • Temporary detour from the normal route.
  • Flashing arrow board: the flashing lights on the arrows show the direction to follow.
  • Milled/grooved pavement: stopping ability may be affected — obey the speed limit, extra caution; motorcyclists may have reduced traction.
  • Lane closed for roadwork ahead: obey the speed limit and merge into the open lane.
  • Closed lane with arrow: adjust speed and merge into the lane the arrow shows.
  • Sign on a pilot or pace vehicle: do not pass that vehicle.
  • Reduce speed and be prepared to stop.
  • Detour marker: follow it until you are back on your regular route.
  • Fines-doubled sign: Highway Traffic Act (HTA) fines for speeding are doubled in a designated construction zone when workers are present.

Information and direction signs

  • Purpose: distances and destinations. Usual look: rectangular, green background, white letters. Other colours guide you to facilities, services and attractions.
  • Direction sign: directions to nearby towns and cities.
  • Distance sign: distances in kilometres to towns and cities along the road.
  • Freeway exit signs: in urban areas many exit ramps have more than one lane; overhead and ground-mounted signs help you pick the right lane to exit or stay on.
  • Advance exit signs use arrows to show which lanes lead off the freeway; signs are also posted at the exit itself.
  • When one or more lanes lead off, the matching arrows on the advance sign sit in a yellow box with the word "exit" under them.
  • Interchange/exit numbers = distance in km from the start of the freeway. Example: interchange 204 on Highway 401 is 204 km from Windsor, where the 401 begins. Subtract one interchange number from another to get the distance between them.
  • "VIA" names the roads you must follow to reach a destination.
  • Roundabout guide sign: shows the upcoming roundabout exits and where they lead.
  • Changeable message signs: change with traffic conditions; give current information on delays and lane closures.
  • Off-road facility signs: hospitals, airports, universities, carpool lots.
  • Other guide signs: route to a passenger railway station; route to an airport; facilities accessible by wheelchair.

Other signs (EDR)

  • Emergency Detour Route (EDR) signs: used during an UNSCHEDULED closure of a provincial highway, when the OPP detour all traffic off the highway. Markers along alternative routes guide drivers around the closure and back onto the highway.

Emergency response signs

  • Some information signs carry a numbering system along the bottom to help emergency vehicles and drivers work out an appropriate route.

Bilingual signs

  • Watch for them in designated bilingual areas; read the message in the language you understand best.
  • English and French may be on one sign, or on separate signs with the English sign immediately followed by the French one.

Traffic lights and pedestrian signals

Green, yellow and red lights, turns on red, advance green and left-turn arrows, flashing lights, transit priority signals, dark signals during power failures and pedestrian signals.

Practise Traffic lights and pedestrian signals questionsFlashcardsOfficial chapter

Green light

  • Steady green: you may turn left, go straight or turn right, but first yield to vehicles and pedestrians already in the intersection.
  • When turning left or right on green, yield to pedestrians crossing.

Yellow light

  • Yellow (amber) warns that red is coming next.
  • Stop if you can do it safely; if you can't, continue with caution.

Red light

  • Red = complete stop. Where to stop, in order: marked stop line → crosswalk (marked or unmarked) → edge of sidewalk → edge of intersection.
  • Move only once the light is green and the intersection is clear.
  • Right on red: allowed unless a sign forbids it, only after a complete stop and once the way is clear.
  • Left on red: allowed only from a one-way road onto a one-way road, after a complete stop and once the way is clear.

Advance green light or arrow

  • Flashing green, or a left green arrow together with a green light = advance green: left, straight or right from the proper lane.
  • Called "advance" because oncoming traffic is still held on red.
  • Pedestrians may not cross on a flashing green unless a pedestrian signal allows it.

Simultaneous left turn

  • Left green arrow shown with a red light: turn left from the left-turn lane; opposite-direction left-turners may be turning at the same time (they also have the arrow).
  • Yellow arrow after the green arrow: a green is about to appear for traffic in one or both directions. Don't start the turn; stop if safe, otherwise finish with caution.
  • Left turns are still allowed on the following green, but only when clear of traffic and pedestrians. If the light goes red while you are in the intersection, complete the turn when safe.
  • Pedestrians may not cross on a left-turn green arrow unless a pedestrian signal allows it.

Transit priority signals

  • Drivers and pedestrians yield to public transit vehicles at a transit priority signal.
  • Look: round signal mounted above a regular signal; white vertical bar on a dark background.
  • Lets transit go straight, turn right or turn left while all conflicting traffic faces red.

Fully protected left turn

  • Separate signals for left-turners vs through/right-turning traffic.
  • Left green arrow: left-turn lane may go; through and right-turn traffic usually sees red; opposite left-turners may also be turning.
  • Sequence for left-turners only: green arrow → yellow → red. Through/right traffic then gets green or straight/right green arrows.
  • You may not start a left turn once the through traffic gets its green.
  • If it turns yellow while you are in the intersection, complete the turn with caution.

Flashing red light / Flashing yellow light

  • Flashing red light: complete stop, proceed only when safe.
  • Flashing yellow light: caution approaching and through the intersection (no stop required).

Blank traffic lights

  • Power loss = signals dark. Yield to vehicles in the intersection and to vehicles entering from your right; go cautiously; treat as an all-way stop.

Traffic beacons

  • A beacon is a single flashing light, hung over an intersection, placed over signs, or on obstacles in the road.
  • Flashing red beacon (over an intersection or a stop sign): complete stop, proceed when safe.
  • Flashing yellow beacon (over an intersection, over a warning sign, or on an obstruction): drive with caution.

Pedestrian signals

  • Walk = white walking-person symbol. Don't start crossing = orange hand, flashing or steady.
  • Pedestrian with a walk signal may cross in that direction and has right-of-way over all vehicles while crossing.
  • If the hand appears after they started, they should get to a safe area quickly; they still keep right-of-way over vehicles while crossing.
  • Intersection with traffic lights but no pedestrian signals: pedestrians may cross on a green light, but not on a flashing green or a left-turn green arrow.

Intersection pedestrian signals

  • Where push-buttons exist, the pedestrian must press one to get the walk signal.
  • Pedestrian signals give more crossing time than regular traffic lights.
  • Intersection pedestrian signal: used on a busy main road; has one or more crosswalks, walk/don't walk signals, push-buttons, and traffic lights on the main road only. Stop signs control the smaller crossroad.

Pavement markings

Yellow and white lines, solid and broken lines, continuity lines, stop lines, crosswalks, lane arrows, pedestrian crossovers and markings around obstacles.

Practise Pavement markings questionsFlashcardsOfficial chapter

Introduction

  • Markings work with signs and lights: they divide lanes, show turning lanes, mark pedestrian crossings, flag obstacles and show where passing is unsafe.

Diagram 3-1 (yellow and white lines)

  • Yellow lines separate traffic going in opposite directions.
  • White lines separate traffic going in the same direction.

Diagram 3-2 (solid line)

  • Solid line on the left of your lane = passing is unsafe.

Diagram 3-3 (broken line)

  • Broken line on the left of your lane = you may pass if the way is clear, and only if enough broken line remains ahead to finish the pass safely.

Diagram 3-4 (continuity lines)

  • Continuity lines = broken lines that are wider and closer together than normal broken lines.
  • On your left: generally your lane is ending or exiting; change lanes to keep going the same direction.
  • On your right: your lane continues unaffected.

Diagram 3-5 (stop line)

  • Stop line = one white line across the road at an intersection; it marks where to stop.
  • No stop line → stop at the crosswalk (marked or not) → no crosswalk → edge of sidewalk → no sidewalk → edge of intersection.

Diagram 3-6 (crosswalk)

  • Marked crosswalk = two parallel white lines across the road.
  • Crosswalks at intersections are not always marked. Same stopping order as above.

Diagram 3-7 (lane arrows)

  • White arrow painted in a lane: you may move only in the arrow's direction.

Diagram 3-8 (pedestrian crossover)

  • Identified by specific signs, overhead yellow lights and pavement markings.
  • Markings: two sets of white double parallel lines across the road, with an X in each approaching lane.
  • Drivers AND cyclists stop before the line and yield until pedestrians have completely crossed and cleared the roadway.

Diagram 3-9 (markings around objects)

  • Two solid lines guide traffic away from fixed objects (e.g. bridge piers, concrete islands).
  • The objects themselves carry yellow and black warning markings.

Graduated licensing: G1, G2 and G

G1 and G2 conditions, the accompanying driver, zero blood alcohol, highway and night limits, passenger limits for young drivers, waiting periods, road tests and new residents.

Practise Graduated licensing: G1, G2 and G questionsFlashcardsOfficial chapter

Requirements for driving in Ontario

  • Ontario residents must be at least 16 and hold a valid Ontario licence to drive.
  • New Ontario resident: may keep using the existing (other province/country) licence for 60 days; after 60 days an Ontario licence is required.
  • Visitors: at least 16, valid home licence; an international driver's permit is needed if visiting for more than 3 months. Visitors cannot get an Ontario licence.
  • You cannot hold an Ontario Photo Card and an Ontario driver's licence at the same time; the Photo Card is given up when you apply.
  • From May 11, 2026, applicants for a class G or M licence declare that Ontario is their primary residence and that their presence in Canada is legal.

Driver's Licence Classification Chart / What kind of licence?

  • 12 licence classes; the class must match the vehicle you drive.
  • Class G: car, van, small truck, or a vehicle-plus-towed combination up to 11,000 kg total, where the towed vehicle is no more than 4,600 kg.
  • G1 holders drive Class G vehicles only with an accompanying fully licensed driver with at least 4 years' experience. G2 holders may drive without an accompanying driver, with conditions.
  • Class M holders may also drive a Class G vehicle under G1 conditions.
  • You need a Class G before any other class; only exception is a motorcycle (Class M).
  • "T" (RV) endorsement: lets E, F and G licence holders drive an RV up to 14,000 kg. "Z" endorsement: required for any air-brake-equipped vehicle.
  • No licence is needed to ride a bicycle, but a bicycle is a vehicle under the Highway Traffic Act.

Graduated licensing

  • Two-step system takes at least 20 months.
  • To apply: at least 16, pass a vision test and a knowledge test (rules of the road and signs) → G1.
  • Two road tests: first moves you to G2, second gives full G.

Applying for a licence / Proof of identification / Photos

  • ID must prove legal name and full date of birth (day, month, year); originals and valid only — no photocopies or expired documents.
  • Direct identification by a parent or guardian is not accepted.
  • Physicians, optometrists and nurse practitioners must report specified high-risk conditions for patients aged 16 or over; other concerns can be reported under discretionary powers. Not every condition triggers mandatory reporting.
  • Licence photo: face fully visible, neutral expression (no smile), facing straight; religious/medical headwear allowed if it covers no part of the face; hair must not cover the eyes.

Level One (Class G1)

  • Lasts 12 months; can be cut to 8 months by passing an approved driver-education course.
  • Blood-alcohol must be zero.
  • Never drive alone: accompanying driver sits in the front passenger seat and is the only other person allowed in the front seat.
  • Accompanying driver: valid Class G or higher, at least 4 years' driving experience, BAC under .05% while accompanying. Time on a valid (not suspended) G2 counts toward the 4 years. Demerit points allowed; licence cannot be suspended.
  • Every person in the vehicle must have a working seatbelt.
  • No 400-series highways with posted limit over 80 km/h; also not QEW, Don Valley Parkway, Gardiner Expressway (GTA), E.C. Row Expressway (Windsor), Conestoga Parkway (Kitchener-Waterloo). Exception: if the accompanying driver is a driving instructor, any road is allowed.
  • No driving between midnight and 5 a.m.
  • Pass a road test to move to G2.

Level Two (Class G2)

  • Lasts at least 12 months; road test for full G allowed after 12 months at G2.
  • Blood-alcohol must be zero; every person must have a working seatbelt.
  • G2 drivers aged 19 and under, between midnight and 5 a.m.: first 6 months — only one passenger aged 19 or under; after 6 months until full G or age 20 — up to three passengers aged 19 or under.
  • Exemptions: a fully licensed driver in the front passenger seat, or passengers who are immediate family (guardian, or related by blood, marriage, common-law or adoption).
  • All drivers 21 and under, any licence class, must have zero BAC.

Road tests

  • Bring a vehicle that is fit, in working order, plated and insured.
  • G1 driver: an accompanying driver must come to the test centre. G2 driver: arrange other transport home in case you fail.
  • No pets or passengers besides the examiner; instructors, friends, relatives and translators cannot ride along.
  • Examiner tells you the time limit, won't ask you to do anything illegal, and cannot coach you — ask questions before starting.
  • Do not rely on automatic parking, lane monitoring or cruise control to demonstrate driving skills. DriveTest’s current FAQ permits a vehicle with a rear camera, while requiring head turns, mirror checks and observation when backing.
  • At least 10 days between test attempts.
  • Arrive at least 30 minutes before a road test appointment (G1 and G2 exit checklists).
  • G2 exit test: need highway experience on highways with limits of at least 80 km/h and must complete a Declaration of Highway Driving Experience form.

New Ontario residents

  • Reciprocating jurisdictions (all Canadian provinces/territories, U.S., and listed countries): full G if you have an equivalent class. With fewer than 2 years' experience you can enter Level Two; once you have 2 years total you can take the Level Two road test.
  • Non-reciprocating jurisdictions: valid foreign licence + ID + vision and knowledge tests → G1.
  • From July 1, 2026, at most 12 months of foreign experience can be credited, and only experience within the past 3 years.
  • Authentication letter (if needed): from within the previous 6 months, from embassy/consulate/licensing agency, in English or French.
  • With at least 12 months foreign experience: may take the G2 road test right away, then wait at least 12 months before the G road test.
  • With 6 months foreign experience: hold G1 another 6 months (12 total) before G2 road test; reduced to 8 months with an approved BDE course.

Choosing a driving school

  • Approved BDE course: may let you test sooner and may lower insurance; reduces Level One time by 4 months; noted on your licence history.
  • Minimum 40 hours: at least 20 in-class, 10 in-vehicle, 10 flexible.
  • Driving-school licences renewed every 3 years; only licensed instructors at licensed schools teach BDE.

Protect yourself from fraud and identity theft

  • Don't share licence info with unauthorized people or post licence images online.
  • Distrust services promising a licence without testing or guaranteeing a pass.

Getting ready to drive

Seat belts and who is responsible, child car seats and booster seats, seat, head restraint and mirror adjustment, blind spots and pre-trip checks.

Practise Getting ready to drive questionsFlashcardsOfficial chapter

Be physically and mentally alert

  • If you doubt your physical, mental or emotional state, vehicle or conditions, don't drive.
  • Fatigue slows thinking and makes you miss things; you may decide wrongly or too slowly in an emergency.
  • Strong emotions (upset, anger) reduce ability to think and react quickly.

Know your vehicle

  • Driver-assist technologies (steering, braking, accelerating help): you must stay ready to take over and remain responsible for all driving tasks.
  • A warning light that stays on after you drive away could mean a serious problem.
  • Learn wipers, washers, headlights, high beams, heater and defroster well enough to use without looking.

Get into position

  • Sit high enough to see over wheel and hood and see the ground 4 m in front; use a firm cushion if needed.
  • Upright, elbows slightly bent. Check: feet flat on the floor under the brake pedal without stretching.
  • Head restraint: back of the head directly in front of the middle of the headrest.
  • Don't overcrowd driving space with passengers or property.

Keep a clear view

  • Nothing in windows blocking view; no coating that stops you seeing out; windshield and front door windows must not be coated to stop people seeing in.

Find your blind spots

  • Blind spots in most vehicles: back left and back right.
  • Interior mirror: centre of mirror shows centre of rear window.
  • Left mirror: lean toward the window, adjust until you just see the rear of your car. Right mirror: lean to the centre of the vehicle, same check. Avoid overlap.
  • Shoulder checks are the only way to be sure blind spots are clear.
  • Learn your blind spots by watching someone walk around the car in your mirrors.

Fasten your seatbelt

  • Seatbelt required every trip in a vehicle with seatbelts; every passenger in own belt, car seat or booster.
  • Driver not buckled: fine and 2 demerit points. Driver can also be fined and get demerits if passengers under 16 aren't properly secured.
  • G1: only the accompanying driver in the front seat, with a seatbelt. Novice drivers must have a seatbelt for every passenger; failing that can mean losing the licence for at least 30 days.
  • Never more than one person per belt. Shoulder strap over shoulder (not under arm/behind back); lap belt low over hips.
  • Airbags don't replace seatbelts. Riding in a pickup box or towed trailer is unsafe.

Child safety

  • Correct child car seat cuts risk of injury/death by 75%.
  • Driver is responsible for all passengers under 16.
  • Seats must meet Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Standards; vehicles with UAS don't need the seatbelt to secure the car seat. Booster needs a lap-and-shoulder belt.
  • Infant under 9 kg (20 lb): rear-facing seat, best in back; never in front of an active airbag.
  • Toddler 9–18 kg (20–40 lb): child seat secured by belt or UAS, plus tether strap to tether anchor. Children over 9 kg may stay rear-facing if seat fits them.
  • Ontario exempts vehicles with only lap belts from the booster-seat requirement. Use the lap belt alone under that exception, not a standard booster with a lap belt. Having lap belts only in the back seat does not by itself establish this exception; choose an appropriate child restraint and follow its instructions.
  • Unused booster: belt it in or remove it.
  • Child can move to seatbelt (if it fits properly) when ANY one is met: turns 8, weighs 36 kg (80 lb)+, or 145 cm+ tall.
  • Safest place for a child under 13: back seat. Never in front of an airbag that isn't turned off.
  • Secure loose objects (cargo nets, straps, trunk).
  • Used car seat: complete instructions/equipment, no damage, never in a collision, not recalled, within useful life.

Seatbelts and child car seats save lives

  • Installed car seat should move no more than 2.5 cm (1 in) at the belt/UAS path; press with a knee to tighten.
  • Locking clip where needed (see owner's manual).
  • Transport Canada says to use the recline-angle range marked on the specific seat or in its manual, appropriate for the child’s weight. Follow both the child-seat and vehicle instructions. A general 45-degree example does not replace the manufacturer’s requirements.
  • Forward-facing seat: also use the tether strap.

Turn on headlights at night and in poor conditions

  • Headlights: white light visible at least 150 m ahead, bright enough to light objects 110 m away. Red rear lights visible 150 m; white light on rear plate when headlights on.
  • Switch to low beams within 150 m of an oncoming vehicle; low beams when less than 60 m behind another vehicle unless passing; applies on all roads including divided.
  • Headlights required from half an hour before sunset to half an hour after sunrise, and when poor light keeps you from clearly seeing people/vehicles less than 150 m away.
  • Don't drive with one headlight or misaimed lights.
  • Parking lights only for parking. Daytime running lights are not headlights — they may not turn on tail lights; use only in good light.
  • Automatic lighting setting recommended where available.

Driving along and intersections

Steering, signalling, speed and following distance, scanning ahead, controlled and uncontrolled intersections, four-way stops and yielding the right-of-way.

Practise Driving along and intersections questionsFlashcardsOfficial chapter

Introduction

  • Build a scanning routine: ahead, behind, side to side. Check mirrors about every 5 seconds.
  • Check blind spots by turning your head to look over your shoulder.
  • Change speed to keep others out of your blind spot; don't drive in other vehicles' blind spots, especially large commercial vehicles (big blind spots at sides and back).
  • Extra care at dusk and dawn (everyone struggles with changing light).
  • Keep a space cushion; watch people in parked vehicles (may pull out or open a door); watch for smaller vehicles, bicycles, pedestrians.

Steer smoothly

  • Steering smooth and precise; most steering and lane changes without taking either hand off the wheel.
  • Must be able to steer straight while shifting, adjusting controls or checking blind spot.
  • Hands at 9 o'clock and 3 o'clock.

Use of turn signals and brake lights

  • Signal before stopping, slowing, turning, changing lanes, leaving the road or pulling out from parking; signal well in advance and make sure it can be seen.
  • Signalling alone is not enough: check the way is clear and move only when safe.
  • If signal/brake lights fail, use hand signals: left turn = left arm straight out; right turn = left arm out, bent up at a right angle; slow/stop = left arm out, bent down at a right angle.
  • Cyclists may signal a right turn with the right arm straight out.

Keep right

  • Keep to the right / right-hand lane unless turning left or passing; especially if slower than other traffic.

Obey speed limits

  • Obey posted maximum, but always at a speed that lets you stop safely; go below the maximum in bad weather, heavy traffic, construction zones.
  • School and construction zones often have lower limits.
  • No posted limit: 50 km/h in cities, towns and villages; 80 km/h elsewhere.
  • Cruise control: not in adverse conditions (wet, icy, slippery), heavy traffic, or when tired.
  • Speed-measuring warning devices are illegal: fine plus demerit points (amounts not given).

Obey police

  • Officer directions override traffic lights and signs.
  • When signalled to pull over: as far right as safely possible, complete stop, stay in the vehicle.
  • Hand over licence, vehicle permit (or copy) and insurance immediately on request; there is no 24-hour allowance.
  • Not pulling over: risk of fine, licence suspension or prison.

Maintaining space

  • Generally match the speed of surrounding traffic without exceeding the limit; keep a space cushion.
  • Minimum following distance: at least 2 seconds behind the vehicle ahead (ideal conditions only).
  • Method: pick a fixed marker; start counting "one thousand and one, one thousand and two" when the rear of the vehicle ahead passes it; stop when your front reaches it. Reach it before "two" = too close.
  • More space needed: bad weather, following motorcycles or large trucks, carrying a heavy load.
  • Don't block normal and reasonable traffic movement.

Introduction

  • Scan for pedestrians, cyclists, vehicles, signs and lights; scan sidewalks and paths/trails too.
  • Children often don't know traffic rules; local bylaws may permit cycling on sidewalks.
  • Two main types: controlled and uncontrolled.

Controlled intersections

  • Controlled = traffic lights, yield signs or stop signs.
  • Green: steady speed; if it has been green a while, be ready to stop on yellow; if too close to stop safely, go through with caution. Red: complete stop until green.
  • On a main road with the intersection blocked: stop before entering and wait for traffic ahead to move (does not apply when turning left or right).
  • Yield sign: slow or stop if needed, wait until clear.
  • Stop sign: complete stop; go only when clear.

Uncontrolled intersections

  • No signs or lights; usually in low-traffic areas; be extra careful.
  • Two arriving at the same time from different roads: driver on the left lets the driver on the right go first.

Yielding the right-of-way

  • No signs/lights: yield to a vehicle that approached before you; tie → vehicle from the right goes.
  • Stop signs at all corners: yield to the first vehicle to stop completely; simultaneous → left yields to right.
  • Turning left: wait for approaching traffic to pass or turn and for pedestrians in or approaching your path.
  • Turning right: wait for pedestrians in or approaching your path; check blind spot for cyclists from behind (bike lane on the right, sidewalk, trail).
  • Yield sign: slow or stop if necessary; yield to traffic in the intersection or on the intersecting road.
  • Entering a road from a private road/driveway: yield to vehicles on the road and pedestrians on the sidewalk.
  • Pedestrian crossovers and school crossings with crossing guards: wait until pedestrians have completely crossed the road.
  • Signalling never gives you the right-of-way.
  • Roundabouts are not in these two source pages; they are in changing-directions.txt (turning topic), so no roundabout questions here.

Turning, signalling and changing lanes

Right and left turns, turns on red, left-turn lanes, roundabouts, backing up, U-turns and turning around, lane changes, passing, climbing lanes and passing streetcars.

Practise Turning, signalling and changing lanes questionsFlashcardsOfficial chapter

Turning a corner

  • Before any turn, lane change, reverse or turnaround: check mirrors and look over your shoulder.
  • Signal well before the turn; get into the far right lane (right turn) or far left lane in your direction (left turn).
  • Slow down before the turn; the sharper the turn, the slower. Finish braking before you start turning the wheel; avoid braking and steering at once.
  • Sharp turns: hand-over-hand steering. Afterwards let the wheel slip/feed back through your hands. Never steer with one finger or a flat palm. Speed up gradually as the turn ends.

Right turns

  • Start and finish close to the right side of the road unless signs/markings say otherwise. If the right lane isn't marked, keep as far right as possible.
  • Look ahead, left, right, left again; check right rear blind spot. Let cyclists, limited-speed motorcycles and mopeds clear the intersection before turning.
  • Finish in the right-hand lane of the new road.

Right turn on a red light

  • Allowed unless a sign forbids it: come to a complete stop first, wait until clear, signal, yield to pedestrians and other road users.

Left turns

  • Start and finish in the far left lane in your direction unless signs/markings say otherwise.
  • Look ahead, behind, left, right, left again; check blind spots.
  • While waiting for oncoming traffic, keep wheels straight until you can complete the turn (if hit from behind with wheels turned left, you could be pushed into oncoming traffic).
  • Two opposing vehicles both turning left: each passes to the left of the other, after yielding to pedestrians and oncoming traffic.
  • Behind a motorcycle, bicycle, limited-speed motorcycle or moped turning left: don't pull up beside it; stay behind, wait for it to move right before passing.
  • Two-way to two-way: from lane nearest centre line into lane just right of centre line (smooth arc), then move to right curb lane when you can.
  • Two-way to one-way: lane nearest centre line into left curb lane.
  • One-way to two-way: left curb lane into lane just right of centre line, then right curb lane when you can.
  • One-way to one-way: left curb lane into left curb lane.

Left-turn lanes

  • Marked left-turn lanes: turn from the marked lane and keep that lane position on the new road.
  • Two-way left-turn (centre) lane: signal and enter shortly before the turn, slow down, move up to a spot opposite where you'll turn, go when clear. Used by both directions; oncoming waiting vehicles can block your view. Not for passing.

Left turn on a red light

  • Only from a one-way road onto a one-way road, after a complete stop and when clear; yield to pedestrians and traffic.

Driving through roundabouts

  • Choose a lane as at any intersection: left lane = left or straight; right lane = right or straight. Don't enter from the right lane to turn left.
  • Cyclists keep to centre of the lane, or dismount and walk it like a pedestrian.
  • Slow down, watch for pedestrians approaching the yield line; stay in your lane.
  • Traffic already in the roundabout has the right-of-way; watch vehicles to your left; stop at the yield sign if needed.
  • Enter only with an adequate gap; don't enter right beside a vehicle already circulating (it may exit next).
  • Keep right of the central island, travel counter-clockwise.
  • Don't stop inside except to avoid a collision; don't change lanes inside. Missed exit in inside lane: keep circling until you reach it again.
  • Exit: keep your lane (left if entered left, right if entered right), keep position relative to others; turn on right signal once you pass the exit before yours; exiting from left lane, watch for vehicles on the right that keep circulating.
  • Large vehicles: give extra room; they may swing wide, use both lanes before entering, and use the full width including the apron (mountable part of centre island).
  • Emergency vehicle while inside: leave at your intended exit, go beyond the traffic island, then pull over. Not yet entered: pull right if possible and wait.
  • Older traffic circles: larger, higher speeds, merging and weaving. Modern roundabouts: smaller diameter, splitter islands; entry is "yield to the left".

Backing up

  • Move slowly; check behind first, especially for children and cyclists.
  • Reversing straight back or to the right: turn body/head right, look over right shoulder. Reversing left: look over left shoulder. Also check the opposite shoulder; watch the front end when turning.
  • Seatbelt not required while backing up; buckle again before going forward.
  • Illegal to reverse on a divided road with a speed limit over 80 km/h — includes the shoulder. Only exception: helping someone in trouble.

Turning around

  • Simplest and safest: drive around the block.
  • U-turn: check for a no-U-turn sign; illegal on a curve, on/near a railway crossing or hilltop, or near a bridge or tunnel blocking your view. Need at least 150 m of visibility in both directions.
  • U-turn steps: signal right, pull to the right side, stop; signal left, when clear both ways turn quickly and sharply into the opposite lane.
  • Three-point turn: used on narrow roads; start from the far right side; same location bans as U-turn. Signal left, turn sharply left to far curb, stop, reverse with right signal turning sharply right, stop, then drive forward.

Changing lanes

  • Never change lanes without signalling and checking.
  • Steps: mirrors; shoulder check (blind spot) in the direction of the move, watch for bicycles/small vehicles; signal; check again incl. vehicles coming fast from behind or two lanes over; steer gradually.
  • Don't slow down: keep speed or increase it gently.
  • Never cut in front of another vehicle (including bicycles); others expect you to yield even if you signal.
  • Avoid weaving/unnecessary changes. Don't change lanes in or near an intersection.

Passing

  • Never pass a moving snow plow under any conditions. If in doubt, don't pass.
  • Steps: left signal; check ahead and behind; watch for hidden bicycles, left-turners, vehicles/pedestrians entering. Return after signalling, once the whole front of the passed vehicle shows in your inside (rear-view) mirror.
  • If the vehicle you're passing speeds up, don't race — return to your lane. Speeding up while being passed is unlawful.
  • No passing within 30 m of a pedestrian crossover.
  • No passing left of the centre line within 30 m of a bridge, viaduct or tunnel.
  • Don't pass near a hill crest or on a curve where view of oncoming traffic is blocked.
  • Passing parked vehicles: watch for opening doors.
  • Motorcycles/bicycles/mopeds moving to one side of their lane are not inviting you to pass in the same lane; change lanes to pass.
  • Being passed: move right. On an undivided road where the passer is in the opposite lane, move toward the right of your lane and be ready to slow down.
  • High-speed roads with 3+ lanes each way: trucks often barred from the far left lane, so the next lane is the truck passing lane; move right if a truck wants to pass.

Passing at night

  • Low beams as you come up behind; switch to high beams once alongside; return when the whole front of the passed vehicle is in your rear-view mirror; signal.

Passing and climbing lanes

  • Slower vehicles move into the right lane so faster ones pass on the left. Advance sign announces the lane; another warns it is ending so right-lane drivers merge left.

Passing on the shoulder / on the right

  • Right shoulder: only to pass a vehicle turning left, and only if paved. Left shoulder: never, paved or not.
  • Passing on the right allowed on multi-lane or one-way roads, and when overtaking a streetcar or a left-turning vehicle. More dangerous than on the left; in the leftmost lane, wait for the slower vehicle to move right.

Passing streetcars

  • Pass streetcars on the right, unless on a one-way road.
  • At streetcar stops stay at least 2 m behind the rear doors where passengers get on/off. Doesn't apply where a passenger area is set aside; pass those at reasonable speed.

Stopping and parking

Braking, where to stop, railway crossings, school crossings and school buses, pedestrian crossovers, parallel parking, parking on a hill, accessible parking and roadside stops.

Practise Stopping and parking questionsFlashcardsOfficial chapter

Braking

  • See stops early, check mirrors, brake early and smoothly, press firmly and evenly.
  • Use the right foot for both brake and gas (avoids pressing both, avoids needless brake lights).
  • Manual transmission on long steep hills: shift to a lower gear before starting down (may not be possible once descending). Guide: same gear downhill as uphill.

Where to stop

  • Complete stop for every stop sign and red light.
  • Order: at the marked stop line; if none, at the crosswalk (marked or unmarked); if no crosswalk, at the edge of the sidewalk; if no sidewalk, at the edge of the intersection. Then wait until clear.

Railway crossings

  • Public-road crossings in Ontario are marked with large red-and-white "X" signs; may also have yellow advance signs, "X" pavement markings, flashing lights, gates/barriers, or stop signs at less-travelled crossings. Private-road crossings may be unmarked.
  • A train can need up to 2 km to stop under full emergency braking.
  • Slow, listen, look both ways. If a train is coming, stop at least 5 m from the nearest rail or gate.
  • Never race a train. Wait for lights to stop flashing and for the gate to rise fully.
  • Never go around, under or through a gate that is down, lowering or rising — illegal.
  • Don't stop on the tracks; make sure there's room to clear them. Avoid shifting gears on the tracks.
  • Trapped on a crossing: get everyone out and away right away, get to safety, then call authorities.
  • Most buses/public vehicles stop at crossings without gates, lights or stop sign. School buses stop at all crossings, protected or not, and don't use their upper red lights for these stops.
  • Crossing with a stop sign: must stop unless a flagman directs otherwise.

School crossings

  • Guard showing red-and-white stop sign: stop before the crossing; stay stopped until everyone, including the guard, has cleared the whole roadway.
  • Penalty: substantial fine and 3 demerit points.

School buses

  • All Ontario school buses: chrome yellow, marked "School Bus".
  • Stopped bus with upper alternating red lights flashing: stop whether behind it or approaching from the front.
  • From the front: stop a safe distance back so children can cross. From behind: stop at least 20 m away. Wait until the bus moves or lights stop.
  • Road with a median (physical barrier — raised, lowered, earth or paved strip): only traffic behind the bus must stop.
  • Applies on any road, any number of lanes, any speed limit, at any time (not just school hours).
  • Stop arm on driver's side swings out after the upper red lights start; remain stopped until arm folds and all lights stop.
  • Failing to stop: heavy fine and 6 demerit points (first offence). Bus drivers and witnesses can report; a registered owner can be fined, but owner liability excludes demerits and jail.

Pedestrian crossovers

  • Crossing areas without traffic lights; pedestrians may push a button to flash overhead yellow lights; they should point/signal before entering.
  • Drivers and cyclists must yield to pedestrians in the crossover; proceed only once pedestrians and school crossing guards are safely on the sidewalk.
  • No passing any vehicle within 30 m of a pedestrian crossover.

Basic rules

  • Obey signs; not all by-laws are posted.
  • Never park on the travelled part of a road; use the shoulder if you must stop.
  • Never park on a curve, hill, or anywhere without a clear view of at least 125 m both ways.
  • Don't block a parked vehicle, sidewalk, crosswalk, pedestrian crossing or road entrance.
  • No parking: within 3 m of a fire hydrant; on or within 100 m of a bridge; within 6 m of a public entrance to a hotel, theatre or public hall while open.
  • No parking within 9 m of an intersection; within 15 m if controlled by traffic lights.
  • No parking within 15 m of the nearest rail of a level railway crossing.
  • Don't park where you obstruct traffic or snow clearing.
  • Opening a door: make sure it's safe first; "Dutch reach" = open driver's door with the right hand, which forces a shoulder check; watch for cyclists; keep a traffic-side door open only as long as needed.
  • After parking: ignition and lights off, key out, lock doors; don't leave children or animals inside.
  • Leaving a parked spot: signal, check traffic, pull out only when safe.

Accessible Parking Permit

  • Laminated card shown on dashboard or turned-down sun visor of any vehicle carrying the person named on it; issued to the person, not a vehicle. Replaces the Disabled Person Parking Permit (old ones valid until expiry).
  • Free. Certified by a licensed physician, chiropractor, nurse practitioner (extended class), physiotherapist or occupational therapist.
  • Temporary (red): disability expected to last more than 2 months but not permanent; not renewable.
  • Traveller (purple): up to 1 year, for valid permit holders flying from an Ontario airport; left in the parked car while the regular permit travels with the person.
  • Company (green): up to 5 years, for companies/non-profits whose vehicles transport people with physical disabilities.
  • Misuse: report to police; fines and revoked privileges.
  • Never use a disabled space (or reserved pickup/drop-off curb) unless the permit belonging to you or a passenger is displayed.

Parallel parking

  • Park parallel to the curb unless signs require angle parking; right side in direction of traffic; both sides allowed on a one-way road unless signed.
  • Space about 1.5 times your vehicle's length. Signal, pull alongside the car ahead of the space about 1 m away, stop when rear bumpers line up.
  • Reverse slowly, wheel turned fully toward the curb; when you see the outside rear corner of the car in front of your space, straighten wheels while reversing; then turn wheel fully toward the road to line up; pull forward to straighten if needed.
  • Parking brake on, park (automatic) or first/reverse (manual); engine off, key out, check traffic before opening door, lock.

Parking on a hill

  • Facing downhill: front wheels toward the curb/right shoulder.
  • Facing uphill with a curb: wheel turned left (wheels toward the road), tires catch the curb if it rolls back.
  • Facing uphill, no curb: wheels sharply right so it rolls off the road.
  • Always: parking brake, park or first/reverse (manual), engine off, key out, check traffic, lock.

Roadside stop

  • Check mirrors and blind spot before slowing.
  • Signal before slowing, unless side roads/driveways with waiting vehicles lie between you and your stop — then wait until past them so they don't think you're turning there.
  • Slow steadily; stop parallel to the curb/edge, no more than about 30 cm from it; don't block entrances or traffic.
  • Signal off, hazard lights on. Automatic: park + parking brake. Manual: parking brake, neutral if engine stays on, low or reverse if engine off. On a hill, set wheels against the curb.

Pulling out from a roadside stop

  • Release parking brake, select drive/first; flashers off, left signal on; check mirrors and blind spot (vehicles and cyclists) just before moving; accelerate smoothly to blend (moderately in light traffic, faster in heavy); left signal off once back on the road.

Freeway driving

Entering and leaving a freeway, acceleration and deceleration lanes, lane choice, passing, HOV and toll lanes, and freeway safety.

Practise Freeway driving questionsFlashcardsOfficial chapter

Overview

  • Freeway (expressway): high-speed multi-lane road, directions separated, ramps for entry/exit; no intersections, bicycles or pedestrians.
  • New drivers should master low-speed driving in traffic first.
  • Class G1 drivers may drive on freeways only with a licensed driving instructor.

Entering a freeway

  • Usually two parts: entrance ramp, then acceleration lane.
  • On the ramp: look ahead, check mirrors and blind spots to pick your gap.
  • In the acceleration lane: speed up to freeway traffic speed, signal, merge smoothly.
  • Freeway drivers should move over (if safe) to leave room for merging vehicles.
  • Some ramps join on the left, putting you into the fastest lane first — accelerate more quickly.

Driving along a freeway

  • Steady speed; keep right; left lanes for passing.
  • Scan constantly; at higher speeds look 15 to 20 seconds ahead (or as far as you can see); check mirrors often.
  • Stay clear of large vehicles (they block your view); keep space all around.
  • Don't cut off any vehicle; a slower vehicle cutting in front of a faster one is dangerous and illegal.
  • Use the far left lane to pass traffic going slower than the limit, but don't stay there; drive in the right lane when possible.
  • Many freeways with 3+ lanes each way bar large trucks from the far left lane; they pass using the lane to its right.

Leaving a freeway

  • Usually three parts: deceleration lane, exit ramp, intersection (stop sign, yield sign or traffic light).
  • Signal into the deceleration lane but don't slow down until you're in it; then reduce speed gradually to the posted ramp speed; check the speedometer.
  • Speed adaptation / "velocitization": losing your sense of speed after high-speed driving — special danger when exiting.
  • Be ready to stop at the end of the ramp.
  • Exit signs come early enough for safe lane changes. Missed exit: don't stop or reverse; take the next exit.

HOV lanes

  • Open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
  • Allowed on provincial highways: vehicles with at least 2 people, buses, licensed taxis, green-plate vehicles, airport limousines, motorcycles, HOT permit holders (where permitted), emergency vehicles.
  • Large trucks never allowed, regardless of occupants.
  • Separated from general lanes by a striped buffer; crossing it is illegal.
  • Buses: any time, any number of occupants. Police, fire, ambulance exempt.
  • Improper use: police can stop and ticket you; you must return to general lanes at the next entry/exit zone.
  • Ontario’s current HOV page specifies at least two people, length less than 6.5 metres and gross weight of 4,500 kg or less for a qualifying commercial truck. Other vehicle classes and exemptions have separate rules.
  • Single-occupant taxis and airport limousines allowed. Green-plate vehicles allowed with any number of occupants; green plates are for eligible plug-in hybrid and full battery electric vehicles.

Special situations on the road

Emergency vehicles and the move-over law, construction zones, animals on the road, drowsy and distracted driving, aggressive driving, road rage and street racing.

Practise Special situations on the road questionsFlashcardsOfficial chapter

Aggressive driving and road rage

  • Aggressive behaviours named: tailgating, speeding, failing to yield, cutting in too closely; these can provoke road rage and retaliation.
  • Managing stress: fresh air, slow deep breathing, relaxing music; leave personal problems behind; on long trips, break every few hours.
  • Don't compete, retaliate or try to "teach" another driver; enforcement is the police's job; don't take others' mistakes personally.
  • Horn: avoid unless absolutely necessary; a light tap is usually enough.
  • Plan your route ahead (lost drivers drive erratically); be courteous; let signalling drivers in; apologise for your own mistakes.
  • Don't return aggression: no eye contact, no gestures back, stay away from erratic drivers.
  • If threatened by another driver: stay in the vehicle with doors locked; call police if you have a phone; use horn and signals to draw attention.
  • If you think you are being followed: do not drive home; go to a police station or busy public place.

Street racing

  • Street racing is among the most serious forms of aggressive driving; racers risk charges under the Criminal Code of Canada.

Drowsy driving

  • Tired drivers can be as impaired as drunk drivers: slower reactions, less alert.
  • Drowsiness collisions cluster between 2 a.m. and 6 a.m. and between 2 p.m. and 4 p.m.
  • Higher-risk groups: shift workers, people with undiagnosed/untreated sleep disorders, commercial-vehicle operators.
  • You can fall asleep without being aware of it.
  • Eight warning signs: trouble keeping eyes open; head tilting forward; wandering mind; frequent yawning; can't recall last few kilometres; missing lights/signals; drifting into next lane and jerking back; drifting off the road and nearly crashing.
  • Any one sign: pull off, park in a safe secure place (well-lit rest stops/truck stops on busy roads), lock doors, close windows, nap.
  • Caffeine, loud radio, open window are not substitutes for sleep; effects wear off quickly if sleep deprived.

Workers on the road

  • Construction zone: obey signs, people and devices directing traffic; lower posted limits are common.
  • In the zone: adjust to conditions, do not change lanes, be ready for sudden stops, watch for workers and equipment.
  • Other roadside hazards (roadside assistance, disabled vehicles, surveyors, maintenance/utility workers): slow down, pass with caution; move over a lane if safe.
  • Follow traffic-control persons' instructions day or night.
  • Lane blocked and no one directing traffic: yield to the driver coming from the opposite direction, then go around slowly.
  • Speeding fines are doubled in a construction zone when workers are present.
  • Disobeying STOP/SLOW signs shown by a traffic-control person or firefighter is an offence.

Animals on the road

  • Wild-animal collisions (mainly moose and deer) rose from 8,964 in 1999 to 12,791 in 2008, a 43% increase; many go unreported.
  • Scan shoulder to shoulder; animals may bolt; be most cautious dusk to dawn (wild animals most active).
  • Reduce speed in darkness, rain, fog; inattention and speed are common factors.
  • Watch for shining eyes at roadside: slow down, be ready to stop.
  • Keep windshield clean, headlights adjusted; use high beams when possible and safe.
  • If you see an animal: slow down and sound horn; expect others with it; don't try to drive around it (unpredictable).
  • To watch an animal, pull completely off the road and park; do not park on the shoulder.
  • Stay in your vehicle.
  • If you hit a deer or moose: report to local police or Ministry of Natural Resources; don't move an injured animal.

Distracted driving

  • Rules apply while driving, including when stopped in traffic or at a red light.
  • Illegal: texting/dialling on a hand-held phone or wireless device (except calling 911 in an emergency); hand-held entertainment devices (tablet, gaming console); viewing screens unrelated to driving (e.g., video); programming a GPS except by voice.
  • Allowed: hands-free devices with earpiece, lapel button or Bluetooth; viewing a GPS screen built into the dashboard or securely mounted.
  • Eating, drinking, grooming, smoking, reading, reaching are not covered by the distracted-driving law, but can lead to careless/dangerous driving charges.
  • Careless driving charge possible for any distraction that endangers others, including hands-free devices.
  • Dangerous driving is a criminal offence with heavier penalties including long jail terms.
  • Tips: phone off/silent, in glove box or back-seat bag; outgoing message; blocking/auto-reply apps; passenger handles calls; pull over to a safe area to call/text; silence notifications.
  • Ontario yearly: about 100 killed and 16,000 injured by distracted drivers; about 1 in 4 deaths are vulnerable road users.
  • Ages 16–25 most likely to drive distracted and most likely to be killed/injured in such crashes.
  • Texting/browsing raises crash risk 10 times.
  • Texting or changing music: 28 metres further travelled before reacting to a hazard (nearly half a hockey rink).
  • Each 10-year increase in driver age: 44% less likely to text, 38% less likely to use hand-held phone, 28% less likely to use hands-free phone.

Emergency vehicles

  • Emergency vehicles: police, fire, ambulance, special public-utility vehicles; identified by flashing red or blue lights, siren or bell, or alternating white flashes from high beams; can be bicycles, snowmobiles, ATVs, motorcycles, buses, trucks.
  • Approaching from any direction with flashing red (or red and blue) lights or siren/bell: required to stop immediately.
  • Stop as near as practical to the right-hand curb/edge; on a one-way road or divided highway with more than two lanes, move to the closest curb/edge.
  • Stop parallel to the road, clear of intersections and on/off ramps; do not move onto or stop on the shoulder (emergency vehicles may use it).
  • Look front, sides, rear; signal well in advance; brake gradually; avoid sudden direction changes or hard braking.
  • If in an intersection preparing to turn: abandon the turn, go straight through when safe, then pull right and stop.
  • After it passes: check, signal, merge back; watch for more emergency vehicles.
  • Illegal to follow within 150 metres of a fire vehicle responding to an alarm.
  • Flashing green light: some firefighters/volunteer medical responders in their own vehicles; yield the right-of-way.
  • Pulled over by police: same procedure but stop off the traffic lanes on the shoulder where possible, or turn onto a quieter side street nearby; follow officer's directions.
  • Freeways: don't drive on or block the shoulder; emergency vehicles use it if lanes are blocked.

Reacting to a stopped emergency vehicle or tow truck

  • Approaching a stopped emergency vehicle with red (or red and blue) flashing lights, or a tow truck with amber flashing lights, on your side: slow down and proceed with caution; consider surrounding traffic and road conditions; brake early and gradually.
  • Manual transmission: use brakes rather than downshifting so brake lights warn others.
  • Two or more lanes in your direction: also move into a lane away from the vehicle if safe; signal, mirror and shoulder check, change lanes well in advance.

Failing to respond to an emergency vehicle

  • First offence: fine and 3 demerit points.
  • Further offences: higher fines and possible jail up to six months.
  • Same law and penalties apply to a stopped tow truck with flashing amber lights.

Night driving and bad weather

Headlight rules and distances, glare, rain, hydroplaning, fog, snow, whiteouts, black ice, skids and winter driving.

Practise Night driving and bad weather questionsFlashcardsOfficial chapter

Introduction

  • At night and in rain, snow or fog you see less far even with headlights; slow down, especially on unlit roads.

Overdriving your headlights

  • Overdriving = going so fast that stopping distance is longer than what your headlights let you see.
  • Reflective road signs can trick you into thinking you see farther than you do.

Glare

  • Glare occurs on sunny and overcast days and at night from oncoming lights or lights in the mirror.
  • Oncoming bright headlights at night: look up, beyond and slightly to the right of them.
  • Daytime glare: sun visor or good sunglasses.
  • Entering a tunnel on a bright day: slow down, remove sunglasses, turn on headlights.
  • Low beams required within 150 metres of an oncoming vehicle and when following within 60 metres.
  • Country roads: switch to low beams at curves and hilltops; back to high beams when no headlights are visible.

Fog

  • Best: avoid driving in fog; delay trip if fog warning; if visibility drops rapidly, get off the road into a safe parking area.
  • Do: slow gradually; full lighting system on; low beams (high beams reflect off moisture); fog lights in addition to low beams; avoid passing, lane changes, crossing traffic; use the right edge of the road as a guide rather than the centre line; increase following distance; cut distractions; watch electronic warning signs; keep windows/mirrors clean.
  • Too dense to continue: pull completely off the road to a safe area, emergency flashers on plus low beams.
  • Don't: stop on the travelled road (chain-reaction risk); speed up suddenly even if fog seems to clear; speed up to pass or to escape a tailgater.
  • You may be going faster than you think; reduce speed gradually.

Rain

  • Roads are most slippery as the first drops fall.
  • Hydroplaning: tires ride on water like water skis when there's too much water or speed is too high; control is very difficult. Need good deep-tread tires; slow down.
  • Drive slow enough to stop within the distance you can see; replace streaking wiper blades.
  • Drive on clear sections; smooth steering/braking/accelerating; leave more space (also avoids spray).
  • Avoid puddles: hidden potholes, damage, spray blinding others or hitting pedestrians, stalling the engine, weaker brakes.

Flooded roads

  • Avoid flooded roads; water may stop brakes working.
  • The MTO handbook advises avoiding flooded roads: water can impair brakes, hide damage and make vehicle control difficult. Choose a safe alternative route rather than assuming the water is shallow or safe.
  • Still pulling or spongy once dry: get the vehicle repaired immediately.

Skids

  • Skid: one or more tires lose grip; most often on slippery surfaces; most result from driving too fast for conditions.
  • Hard braking, aggressive turning or accelerating can cause skids; braking or accelerating while steering pushes tires toward a skid.
  • In a skid: don't panic; ease off accelerator or brake; on very slippery surface shift to neutral if you can; steer where you want to go; don't oversteer; once in control brake gently.

Anti-lock braking systems (ABS)

  • Practise emergency braking, ideally with a qualified instructor.
  • ABS senses wheel speed; abnormal drop (impending lock) reduces brake force on that wheel, preventing skids and loss of steering.
  • ABS does not shorten stopping distance.
  • Pedal pulsation is normal under hard braking; don't release the pedal.
  • With ABS: press hard and let the system control lock-up.

Threshold braking

  • Mainly for vehicles without ABS; brake as hard as possible until a wheel begins to lock, ease slightly, re-apply; don't pump the brakes.

Snow

  • Snow can be hard-packed (icy), rutted, or smooth and soft; slow down on rutted roads; avoid sudden actions.
  • Do not use cruise control in snow or other bad weather.

Whiteouts

  • Blowing snow can fully block view; drive only if necessary.
  • Low beams (high beams reflect off ice particles); fog lights in addition; increase following distance; get off the road when visibility is near zero.
  • Don't stop on the travelled road; don't pass slow vehicles or speed away from tailgaters.
  • If stranded in a winter storm, stay with the vehicle, open a window slightly and use flashers. Before running the engine briefly for warmth, clear snow from the exhaust pipe and keep it clear to reduce carbon-monoxide risk.
  • Winter survival kit: warm clothing, non-perishable energy food, flashlight, shovel, blanket.

Ice

  • Shaded areas, bridges and overpasses freeze first.
  • Black ice: road looks black and shiny; normal winter asphalt looks grey-white.

Snow plows

  • Snow-removal vehicles have flashing blue lights visible from 150 metres.
  • Some plows have a wing extending up to 3 metres to the right.
  • On freeways plows may be staggered across lanes passing a snow ridge; never pass between them.

Emergencies and collisions

Brake failure, stuck accelerator, blowouts, running off the pavement, breakdowns, what to do at a collision and reporting thresholds.

Practise Emergencies and collisions questionsFlashcardsOfficial chapter

If your brakes fail

  • Pump the brake pedal to temporarily restore hydraulic pressure.
  • If that fails: apply the parking brake gently but firmly while holding the release button.
  • New drivers should practise a parking-brake stop with a qualified instructor.
  • Total brake failure is very rare on modern vehicles; after stopping, don't drive away — call for help.

If your gas pedal sticks

  • First slip your foot under the pedal to lift it; don't reach down with your hands while moving.
  • Then: hazard lights on, shift to neutral, stop as soon as safely possible (preferably off road), ignition off, don't drive away, call for help.

If your headlights go out

  • Check the switch at once; if still out, hazards on, stop safely off the road, call for help.
  • Driving at night without lights is dangerous and illegal.

If you have trouble on a freeway

  • Pull over at the first sign of trouble; don't wait to stall.
  • Mirrors, hazard lights, foot off gas, move to nearest shoulder quickly; never stop in driving lanes.
  • Exit through the door away from traffic if possible; do not raise the hood.
  • Wait inside with doors locked; ask helpers to call police or auto club; use your own phone if you have one.
  • QEW, 400-series and many high-speed roads are patrolled by the OPP; stay with the vehicle.

If your wheels go off the pavement

  • Don't panic; grip wheel firmly; foot off gas; avoid heavy braking.
  • Steer back toward the pavement once under control; be ready to correct steering and increase speed once fully back on.

If a tire blows out

  • Expect strong steering/wheel vibration; foot off gas; steer firmly where you want to go; stop off the road.

In a collision where someone is injured

  • St. John Ambulance recommends carrying a first-aid kit and knowing how to use it.
  • Every driver involved must stay at or return immediately to the scene and give all possible help.
  • Not involved: stop and offer help if police/officials haven't arrived.
  • Must report to police when anyone is injured or vehicle/property damage exceeds $5,000.
  • Engines off, flashers on; warning signals/flares or someone warning traffic.
  • No smoking, matches or flares near vehicles (fuel leak). Vehicle on fire: get people out and well away.
  • No fire/explosion danger: leave injured people where they are until trained help arrives.
  • Trained in first aid: treat by urgency within training (airway, rescue breathing, pressure on bleeding with clean cloth).
  • Not trained: cover a person in shock with a jacket or blanket.
  • Stay with injured people until help arrives.

In a collision where no one is injured

  • Drivable vehicles: move as far off the road as possible ("Steer it, Clear it"); this doesn't affect the police investigation; especially on busy/high-speed roads.
  • Can't move: set warning signals/flares far enough back for traffic to slow or stop.
  • Call provincial or local police depending on location; report if injuries or damage over $5,000.
  • Give police and owners of damaged vehicles: your name and address, registered owner's name and address, plate and permit number, liability insurance card.
  • Get names, addresses, phone numbers of all witnesses.
  • Damage under $5,000: still must exchange information; no police report required.
  • Take photos if safe.
  • If towed: get tow operator's name and licence number/company and know where the vehicle is going.
  • Contact your insurer as soon as possible if you plan to claim.

Sharing the road

Pedestrians, cyclists and the one-metre passing rule, motorcycles, large trucks and blind spots, buses, farm machinery, horse-drawn vehicles and snowmobiles.

Practise Sharing the road questionsFlashcardsOfficial chapter

Sharing the road with pedestrians

  • Safety is shared: pedestrians should confirm drivers have seen them and are stopping; drivers must respond to pedestrians, which usually means yielding.
  • Eye contact between driver and pedestrian is a key to pedestrian safety.
  • Children: drive slowly in school zones and residential areas; do not count on a child knowing traffic laws; extra caution at twilight, when children are hard to see.
  • A crosswalk can be the part of the road joining sidewalks on opposite sides, or the part marked with signs/lines. Not all crosswalks are marked; nearly all intersections have them.
  • Never pass a vehicle stopped at a crosswalk; it may be stopped for a pedestrian.
  • Drivers and cyclists must stop and yield the whole roadway at pedestrian crossovers, school crossings and wherever a crossing guard is present; proceed only once pedestrians and the guard are safely on the sidewalk.
  • Community safety zone signs mark areas the community has flagged as high risk for pedestrians.
  • Be patient with slow pedestrians, seniors and people with disabilities; blind/visually impaired pedestrians may use a white cane or guide dog.
  • Hybrid/electric vehicles make little or no noise when slowing/stopping; vision-impaired people rely on engine sound, so take extra care.
  • People in motorized wheelchairs/medical scooters are pedestrians.
  • Streetcar safety islands/zones: pass at a reasonable speed, be ready for sudden moves.
  • Distracted pedestrians with ear buds may not hear horns; dark clothing at night/twilight is hard to see.
  • E-bikes and e-scooters increasingly on roads.
  • Far more pedestrians are hit by left-turning vehicles than right-turning vehicles.

Sharing the road with cyclists

  • Slower bicycles/mopeds ride about 1 m from the curb or parked cars (or as near the right edge as practical with no curb).
  • Cyclists may use any part of the lane for safety: avoiding puddles, ice, sand, debris, potholes, sewer grates; crossing railway/streetcar tracks at 90 degrees; discouraging passing in a lane too narrow to share.
  • Cyclists need not keep right when going at or above the normal traffic speed, or when turning left / positioning to turn left; they may turn left from a left-turn lane.
  • Passing a cyclist: drivers must keep at least 1 m between vehicle and cyclist where practical; failure = fine + 2 demerit points. Change lanes to pass when possible.
  • Do not follow cyclists closely: no brake lights.
  • Right turn: signal, check mirrors and right blind spot. Left turn: stop and wait for oncoming bicycles to pass. Going straight: scan for cyclists waiting to turn left.
  • Avoid unnecessary horn when overtaking; if needed, tap lightly while still some distance away.
  • Bike lanes reserved for cyclists, usually marked by a solid white line; enter only when safe to turn right at a corner/driveway, then turn.
  • Cyclist extending right arm = right turn. Try to make eye contact.
  • Bike box: painted box with white bicycle symbol; at a signal, drivers stop behind it, never in it.
  • Sharrow: two chevrons over a bicycle symbol = shared lane.
  • Children on bikes may lack skills; oversized bikes may be hard for them to control.
  • Parked at roadside: check behind, mirrors and blind spots for cyclists before opening a door.

Motorcycles and limited-speed motorcycles

  • Motorcycles, mopeds and bicycles are harder to see, may move suddenly due to road surface/weather, and riders are more likely to be injured.
  • Motorcycles use a full lane; treat like other vehicles.
  • Many motorcycle signals don't self-cancel; before turning left in front of one with a signal on, make sure it is really turning.

Large commercial vehicles

  • Recent data: most deaths in collisions with large trucks result from the other driver's actions, not the truck driver's.
  • Big blind spots on both sides and directly behind; if you can't see the driver's face in their side mirror, they can't see you. Don't tailgate.
  • Much longer stopping distance: don't cut in closely after passing; leave more room.
  • Wide right turns: truck may swing left first; don't move into the gap on the right; stay back until it clears. Same with two left-turn lanes on off-ramps: don't pull up in the left lane beside a left-turning truck.
  • May roll back when brakes released after stopping: leave room.
  • Spray (mud, snow, debris) can block your windshield; turbulence can affect control when passing.

Municipal buses

  • Three types of bus bays: mid-block indented bays; indentations just before/after intersections; stops between parking areas.
  • Bus in a bay flashing its left signals and you are in the lane next to the bay: you must let the bus re-enter traffic.

Farm machinery

  • Most tractors/combines max 40 km/h, slower when towing.
  • Often oversized; driver may not see vehicles behind; farmers may turn directly into fields; common after dark in planting/harvest season.
  • Must show an orange-and-red slow-moving sign on the rear = travelling 40 km/h or less. Slow down, stay well back, pass only when safe.

Horse-drawn vehicles

  • Among the slowest road users; carts up to buggies carrying up to 8 people, and farm wagons.
  • Mostly on the shoulder, but may enter the lane where shoulders are narrow or absent (e.g. bridges).
  • Common in southwestern Ontario, increasingly in eastern and northern Ontario.
  • Must show orange-and-red slow-moving sign (40 km/h or less); many have reflective tape.
  • Oncoming horse-drawn vehicle: move to the far right of your lane. When passing, leave as much distance as possible; passing too close may startle the horse.

School buses

  • Overhead amber lights flashing: bus is about to stop; slow down and prepare to stop whether behind or approaching. With a median, only traffic behind the bus prepares to stop.
  • Overhead red lights flashing or stop arm out: must stop whether behind or approaching. With a median, only traffic from behind must stop.
  • Approaching from behind: stop at least 20 m away.
  • Do not go until the bus moves, red lights stop and the stop arm is withdrawn. Failing to stop is illegal.

Safe, responsible and efficient driving

Distracted driving and hand-held device rules, fatigue, defensive driving, and fuel-efficient driving habits.

Practise Safe, responsible and efficient driving questionsFlashcardsOfficial chapter

Introduction

  • Safe driving combines knowledge, skill and attitude.
  • Breaking the rules of the road is the major cause of collisions.
  • Traffic laws come from federal, provincial and municipal governments; police at each level can enforce them.
  • Breaking a traffic law can mean a fine, jail or loss of licence; driving while suspended can lead to vehicle impoundment.
  • Everyone is responsible for avoiding collisions; you can be found responsible even if another person did something wrong, if you could have avoided it.
  • Be predictable (do what others expect) and courteous (give space to change lanes, don't cut off, signal properly).

Defensive driving

  • Defensive (strategic) driving: seeing hazards early and responding in time; collision avoidance courses exist.
  • Based on three ideas: visibility, space, communication.
  • Visibility: scan ahead and to the sides; check mirrors about every 5 seconds; look far ahead; use signals so others see you.
  • Space: keep a cushion ahead, behind and on both sides; greatest collision risk is in front, so stay well back.
  • Communication: eye contact with pedestrians, cyclists, drivers at intersections; signal to slow, stop, turn or change lanes; use the horn to get attention.

Environmental effects

  • Gas/diesel exhaust: oxides of carbon, nitrogen and sulphur, hydrocarbons, soot.
  • Ground-level ozone is one component of smog; it forms when hydrocarbons and nitrogen oxides react in sunlight.
  • Acid rain = sulphur and nitrogen oxides + water vapour.
  • The handbook uses an older estimate that cars produce nearly half of transport CO2; it is not a current emissions inventory. Taking transit or sharing trips can reduce emissions per passenger.

Before you drive / While driving / At the garage

  • Combine errands; avoid rush hour; heed smog alerts; walk/cycle short trips; transit, carpool (free carpool lots).
  • Cold engine start releases a big burst of pollutants: avoid unnecessary starts.
  • Avoid unnecessary idling. In normal conditions, about 30 seconds can be enough before driving gently; this does not mean the engine has reached full operating temperature. Clear snow and ice and ensure visibility first.
  • Cruise control should not be used on slippery roads, in heavy traffic or when you feel tired.
  • Remove extra weight (baggage, wet snow, sand/salt) and unused roof racks; at high speed use vents, not open windows.
  • A/C: windows and vents in city/stop-and-go; at high speeds A/C is usually more efficient than open windows.
  • Don't top off the tank: spilled fuel releases vapours.
  • Keep engine tuned (worn plugs, dragging brakes, low transmission fluid raise fuel use), follow maintenance schedule, check leaks, keep tires inflated, check alignment.

10 ways to make Ontario's roads safer

  • Don't drink and drive or drive on impairing medication; wear seatbelts and use correct child seats; obey limits, slow in poor conditions.
  • Don't cut people off, make sudden lane changes or run yellow lights; don't drive tired, upset or sick.
  • When in doubt, yield the right-of-way.
  • Keep at least a 2-second gap: count from when the vehicle ahead passes a fixed object until you reach it.
  • Cut distractions: don't overcrowd the vehicle or play loud music.
  • Check mirror and over your shoulder before changing lanes; check all directions including sidewalks and paths before entering an intersection.

Continue to part 2

Written in our own words from: Official MTO Driver's Handbook

FAQ

Ontario G1 study guide: common questions

What is the best way to use this Ontario G1 study guide?

Read one topic, then answer that topic's practice questions while the rules are fresh. Note the questions you miss, re-read those notes, and finish with a full practice test across all 19 topics.

Is this the official Ontario G1 handbook?

No. It is our own summary of the Official MTO Driver's Handbook. Use it to review, and use the official handbook when you need the exact wording of a rule.

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