G2 vs G Road Test: What’s the Difference?

If you’re working toward your full Ontario driver’s licence, you’ve probably wondered about the difference between the G2 and G tests — and which one is harder.

The truth?
Both tests check for safe driving, but they focus on very different skills.

Here’s a simple breakdown so you know exactly what to expect.

What the G2 Test Is About

The G2 road test is your first real driving exam.
It’s shorter, slower-paced, and focused on basic city driving skills.

What examiners look for:

• Smooth acceleration + braking
• Proper lane positioning
• Right and left turns
• Parking skills
• Obeying signs and speed limits
• Strong observation (mirrors + shoulder checks)

Length of the test

15-20 minutes

Roads used

Mostly:

• Residential streets
• Small intersections
• Plazas
• Parking lots

The G2 does not usually include:

• Highway driving
• Complex multi-lane intersections
• High-speed merging

It’s beginner-friendly as long as your fundamentals are solid.

What the G Test Is About

The G road test is your final exam — the last step to becoming a fully licensed Ontario driver.

It’s longer, faster, and covers much more advanced driving, including highways.

Examiners check for:

• Confident merging onto the highway
• Smooth lane changes at high speed
• Following distance + speed discipline
• Multi-lane intersections
• Advanced observation skills
• Emergency roadside stop

Length of the test

25–40 minutes

Roads used

A mix of:

• City streets
• Rural/industrial roads
• 400-series highways
• Multi-lane routes
• School zones and traffic-heavy areas

This test proves that you can drive safely in any real-world situation.

Which Test Is Harder?

No surprise — the G test is harder.
Students struggle the most with:

• Highway merging
• Maintaining speed
• Lane changes at 90–100 km/h
• Hesitation at major intersections

But if you’ve been driving regularly with your G2, the test is very manageable.

Why You Need Both Tests

Ontario uses a graduated licensing system to help new drivers build confidence safely.

• G2 test: proves you can handle everyday city driving.
• G test: proves you can handle highways and complex real-world situations.

Both matter — and both are required before you get full driving privileges.

How Many Lessons Do You Need for Each?

Most students need:

For G2:

• Beginners: 8–12 lessons
• Some experience: 4–6
• Confident drivers: 1–3

For G:

• Students who drove often: 1–2 lessons
• Students who rarely drove on highways: 3–5
• Nervous drivers: 5+ recommended

A proper practice session on real test routes usually makes the biggest difference.

Want Help Preparing for Your Test?

Golden Key Driving School offers:

• G2 and G test prep
• Highway practice
• Real test simulations
• One-on-one professional training

Whether you're getting ready for G2 or aiming for your full G, we’ll help you feel confident and pass with ease.