How to Get Your Ontario Driver's Licence as a Newcomer

Ontario uses a graduated driver's licensing (GDL) system with two stages: G1 (learner's) and G2 (restricted) before the full G licence. As a newcomer with a valid foreign driver's licence, you may be eligible to start directly at a higher stage — but the rules vary by country of origin.

Step 1: Visit a DriveTest centre with your foreign licence, passport, and proof of Ontario residency. Step 2: Pass a knowledge test (available in multiple languages). Step 3: After 12 months on G1, pass a road test for G2. After a further 12 months on G2, pass your final G road test. Drivers from certain countries including India and Sri Lanka may qualify for an accelerated process — ask at the DriveTest centre about international licence exchange agreements.