If you’re a new driver in Ontario, you’ll enter the province’s graduated licensing system. Graduated licensing allows new drivers to gain driving experience and skills gradually, with a two-step licensing process that takes at least 20 months to complete. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at how the system works and why it matters.
Getting Started
To apply for a licence in Ontario, you must be at least 16 years old, pass a vision test, and pass a test of your knowledge of the rules of the road and traffic signs. Once you’ve passed these tests, you’ll enter Level One and receive a Class G1 licence.
Level One
Level One is a period of supervised driving that lasts at least 12 months. During this time, you must have a fully licensed driver in the passenger seat at all times who has had a Class G licence for at least four years. You must also maintain a zero blood alcohol level while driving.
Level One drivers are subject to a number of restrictions, including a limit of one passenger in the vehicle (excluding the supervising driver) and a ban on driving between midnight and 5 a.m. However, there are some exceptions to the nighttime driving ban, such as driving to or from work or school.
Level Two
Once you’ve completed Level One and passed a road test, you’ll move to Level Two and receive a Class G2 licence. This level allows you to drive without a fully licensed driver in the passenger seat, but still with some restrictions. For example, you must maintain a zero blood alcohol level and are limited to carrying only as many passengers as there are working seat belts in the vehicle.
Level Two lasts for at least 12 months, or eight months if you’ve completed an approved driver education course. Once you’ve completed this level and passed another road test, you’ll receive a full Class G licence.
Why Graduated Licensing Matters
Graduated licensing is designed to help new drivers gain the skills and experience they need to become safe and responsible drivers. By gradually removing restrictions as drivers progress through the levels, the system helps to reduce the risk of accidents and fatalities among new drivers.
According to the Ministry of Transportation, drivers in their first year of licensed driving are almost four times more likely to be involved in a collision than those who have been driving for several years. Graduated licensing is just one of the ways that Ontario is working to address this issue and improve road safety for all drivers.
In conclusion, graduated licensing is an important part of the licensing process for new drivers in Ontario. By taking the time to gain experience and skills gradually, new drivers can become safer and more responsible drivers, helping to reduce the risk of accidents on the road.
