Ontario’s Graduated Licensing System is designed to make new drivers safer by introducing them to the road in stages. After earning your G1 license and passing your first road test, you upgrade to the G2 license. This is the “intermediate” stage of driving in Ontario.
Limited Time Automotive Amazon DealsThe G2 license in 2026 still comes with several restrictions that all drivers must follow — including zero alcohol tolerance, cannabis restrictions, night passenger limits, seatbelt rules, and more.
This 2026 guide provides a complete breakdown of Ontario G2 restrictions, penalties for violations, and how to successfully move on to your full G license.
Ontario uses a graduated licensing system with three levels:
A G2 license means:
| Restriction | 2026 Rule | Who It Applies To |
|---|---|---|
| Alcohol | 0.00 BAC required. | All G2 drivers. |
| Cannabis/Drugs | Zero tolerance for THC or impairing substances. | All G2 drivers. |
| Seatbelts | One passenger per working seatbelt. | All G2 drivers. |
| Passenger Limits (at night) | First 6 months: Only 1 passenger age 19 or under between midnight–5 a.m. After 6 months: Up to 3 passengers age 19 or under. | G2 drivers 19 and under. |
| Highways | Driving allowed on all highways, including 400-series and QEW. | All G2 drivers. |
| Distractions | Same penalties as full G license drivers, with novice-level consequences. | All G2 drivers. |
With cannabis legalized in Canada, Ontario has strengthened zero-tolerance policies for novice drivers:
These rules are aimed at reducing teen driver collisions at night.
Unlike G1 drivers, G2 drivers can drive on:
👉 There are no time-of-day restrictions for highway driving with a G2.
| Time of Day | Rule | Applies To |
|---|---|---|
| Daytime (5 a.m. – midnight) | No passenger restrictions. | All G2 drivers. |
| Nighttime (midnight – 5 a.m.) | Passenger restrictions apply (1 or 3 under-19 passengers). | G2 drivers age 19 and under. |
Distracted driving penalties are especially harsh for novice drivers:
Breaking G2 restrictions in 2026 can lead to:
| Feature | G2 License | Full G License |
|---|---|---|
| Drive Alone | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Highways | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Alcohol | ❌ Zero tolerance | Allowed up to 0.05 BAC |
| Cannabis | ❌ Zero tolerance | ❌ Impairment prohibited |
| Night Passenger Restrictions | ✅ Yes (under-20 only) | ❌ None |
| Validity | 5 years | 5 years (renewable) |
1. What are the restrictions for G2 drivers in Ontario?
Zero alcohol, zero cannabis, mandatory seatbelts, and passenger limits for drivers under 20 between midnight and 5 a.m.
2. Can G2 drivers drive on highways in Ontario?
Yes. Unlike G1 drivers, G2 drivers can use all highways, including the 400-series and QEW.
3. What are the G2 night driving restrictions?
If you’re 19 or under: only 1 passenger under 19 for first 6 months, then 3 passengers after.
4. Can you drink alcohol with a G2 license?
No. G2 drivers must have 0.00 BAC at all times.
5. Can G2 drivers use cannabis in Ontario?
No. Like alcohol, G2 drivers must maintain zero THC levels.
6. Can G2 drivers be insured in Ontario?
Yes, but premiums are higher due to novice-driver risk.
7. How long do G2 restrictions last?
Until you pass your G road test or your G2 expires (5 years).
8. Can you drive in the U.S. with a G2 license?
Yes, but insurance coverage and state laws apply.
9. Are there highway restrictions for G2 drivers?
No — all Ontario highways are open to G2 drivers.
10. What happens if you break G2 restrictions?
Fines, suspensions, demerit points, and possible insurance rate increases.
In 2026, Ontario’s G2 license restrictions remain a critical step in the province’s graduated licensing system. They balance independence with safety, ensuring novice drivers gain valuable experience before moving on to a full G license.
From zero alcohol tolerance to passenger limits at night, the rules may feel strict — but they’re designed to protect new drivers and everyone on the road. Once you’ve completed your G2 stage and passed the G road test, you’ll enjoy the full freedom of Ontario driving without restrictions.
