It doesn’t take long for you to obtain the G1 licence after you’ve learned the traffic signs and rules of the road. The next step is to show up at a DriveTest Centre and take the exam that evaluates your driving knowledge.
Due to high demand, some of these locations will test your patience. By default, the system works on a first-come, first-served basis, so you’ll have to wait in line for a while. This can be anything between several minutes to a couple of long hours.
Most students are nervous on the big day, so they’re not comfortable with delaying the test. All that extra time allows self-doubt and intrusive thoughts to settle in, especially if you’re prone to overthinking.
That’s why you should try to book a G1 written test in advance. By reserving a time slot, you can show up as early as you want without worrying about waiting times. However, only a select few DriveTest centres offer appointments for the G1 written test. You may need to schedule an appointment several weeks in advance and be prepared for a long trip to reach one of those centres. You can locate a DriveTest centre that offers appointments for the written test through the ServiceOntario website.
There are three ways to book your G1 test in advance: online, by phone and in person.
1. Online Booking
The easiest option is to access the DriveTest website and navigate to the booking section. The interface is simple and easy to use, so even non-tech-savvy users can complete the scheduling process.
Clear instructions are provided on the site. All you need is an email address and a phone number, which will be used to reserve your chosen slot.
Keep in mind that some locations are experiencing higher-than-normal waiting times. Your local G1 test location might not accept appointments. Alternatively, it might not offer walk-ins for the written test, so an appointment will be required.
2. Phone Booking
If you prefer to speak directly with a customer service representative, you can book a slot through your phone. Before calling, gather all the necessary identification documents.
The DriveTest Customer Service number is 1-888-570-6110.
They operate during standard business hours, so waiting times can vary depending on their availability. Once you connect to an operator, they will ask you to provide your full name, date of birth and address.
Have a pen and paper nearby and note down the confirmation number and your appointment details.
After the call, your slot gets booked in their system, and you can show up at the time you are allocated to take your written G1 exam.
3. In Person Booking
Some people prefer face-to-face interactions. It is a simple way to book your G1 test without missing any important details.
Locate a DriveTest Centre that offers appointments, and go there during normal business hours. It’s recommended that you arrive early to avoid long lines. You’ll see some students ready to take the written test, and soon, you’ll be in the same position.
But for now, all you have to do is check in at the reception. Let the staff know you’re there to book and take the G1 written test at a later time. They will ask you for identification documents, proof of residency, and a time preference for the appointment.
At the end, you’ll be asked to pay the test fee. You can do this with cash, credit card or debit card. Confirm the amount with the receptionist and double-check the documents before leaving the DriveTest Centre.
If you have any questions about this process, don’t hesitate to ask the available staff. They are ready to assist students like you.
What About Payment?
The total fee for the G1 written test is $158.25 CAD. This fee covers the test itself, the future G2 road exam and a 5-year licence. All students must pay before they start the test, but you can do so in advance.
You can make your online payment when you schedule the written test. This way, you won’t waste time looking for the payment counter at the DriveTest location.
If an appointment is not scheduled and attached to the payment, funds will be reversed and you’ll have to pay in person.
It might take up to 7 business days for the refund to arrive in your account. If you decide to show up and take the test without an appointment, you’ll have to make this payment again.
The retake fee should be your last worry if you fail the test. It costs $16 CAD, and you’ll have to pay at the nearby counter.