Introduction
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.
What Is a G2 License in Ontario? (2026 Update)
Limited Time Automotive Amazon DealsOntario uses a graduated licensing system with three levels:
- G1 (Learner’s Permit) – Must drive with a fully licensed driver, no highways, no night driving.
- G2 (Intermediate License) – Can drive alone, with some restrictions.
- Full G License – No restrictions.
A G2 license means:
- You can drive alone.
- You can drive anywhere in Ontario, including highways.
- You are still considered a novice driver, so extra restrictions apply.
Ontario G2 Restrictions 2026 (Full List)
| 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. |
Alcohol Restrictions for G2 Drivers in Ontario
- G2 drivers must maintain 0.00 BAC (Blood Alcohol Concentration).
- Even a small amount of alcohol will result in suspensions, fines, and possible license cancellation.
- Penalties include:
- 3-day roadside suspension for first offence.
- Longer suspensions and higher fines for repeat offences.
Cannabis & Drug Restrictions (2026 Update)
With cannabis legalized in Canada, Ontario has strengthened zero-tolerance policies for novice drivers:
- G2 drivers must not have any THC in their system.
- Police use roadside saliva and field sobriety tests.
- Penalties are similar to alcohol violations.
Seatbelt Rules for G2 Drivers
- Every passenger must wear a seatbelt.
- You cannot carry more passengers than there are working seatbelts in the car.
- Breaking this rule can cost $240 per offence and 2 demerit points.
Night Driving Restrictions for G2 Drivers Under 20
These rules are aimed at reducing teen driver collisions at night.
- First 6 months with a G2 (age 19 or under):
- Only 1 passenger age 19 or under allowed between midnight and 5 a.m.
- After 6 months or after turning 20:
- Up to 3 passengers age 19 or under allowed between midnight and 5 a.m.
- Exemption: If accompanied by a full G licensed driver with 4+ years of experience, the rule does not apply.
Highway Restrictions for G2 Drivers
Unlike G1 drivers, G2 drivers can drive on:
- 400-series highways (401, 403, 404, 407, etc.).
- Queen Elizabeth Way (QEW).
- Other high-speed freeways in Ontario.
👉 There are no time-of-day restrictions for highway driving with a G2.
Daytime vs. Nighttime Driving (Clear Breakdown)
| 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 Restrictions for G2 (2026 Penalties)
Distracted driving penalties are especially harsh for novice drivers:
- First offence: $615 fine, 3-day suspension, 3 demerit points.
- Second offence: $615 fine, 7-day suspension, 6 demerit points.
- Third offence: $615 fine, 30-day suspension, possible license cancellation.
Penalties for Breaking G2 Restrictions in Ontario
Breaking G2 restrictions in 2026 can lead to:
- Fines ($60–$500 depending on violation).
- Immediate suspensions (3–30 days).
- Demerit points (2–6 depending on the offence).
- Higher insurance premiums.
- Possible license cancellation requiring re-testing.
How Long Do G2 Restrictions Last in Ontario?
- The G2 license is valid for 5 years.
- Restrictions apply until you pass the G road test.
- Most drivers attempt the G test after 12–20 months of G2 driving.
G2 vs. G License in 2026
| 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) |
Common FAQs on Ontario G2 Restrictions 2026
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.
Conclusion
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.