If you have your G1 and you want to reach your G2 as quickly as possible, there’s one step that makes the biggest difference: completing an MTO-approved Beginner Driver Education (BDE) course.
Without a BDE course, you wait 12 months after getting your G1 before you can take your G2 road test. With an approved BDE course, that wait drops to 8 months. That’s 4 months back in your hands.
Here’s how it works, what the course covers, and how to get started.
What is the standard G1-to-G2 wait time in Ontario?
In Ontario, new drivers must hold a G1 license for a minimum period before they’re eligible to take the G2 road test.
The standard wait is 12 months. If you complete an MTO-approved BDE course, that wait is reduced to 8 months.
The 4-month difference is the main reason most new drivers choose to take a BDE course before booking their road test.
What is a BDE course and what does it include?
BDE stands for Beginner Driver Education. It’s a structured driver education program approved by Ontario’s Ministry of Transportation (MTO).
A full BDE program includes:
- In-class or online theory instruction covering Ontario road rules, traffic laws, and safe driving practices (20 hours)
- In-class or online practice or homework on the rules (10 hours)
- In-car lessons with a certified driving instructor (10 hours)
Completing an approved program is what qualifies you for the reduced 8-month wait. Not every driving course qualifies. It has to be specifically MTO-approved.
Can you take a BDE course online in Ontario?
Yes. MTO-approved BDE courses are available. You can complete the theory portion at your own pace, on your schedule, from any device.
Online BDE is the most common choice for students today because it doesn’t require attending in-person classes on a fixed schedule. You work through the material when it works for you, then pair it with in-car lessons to complete the program.
Drivisa offers an MTO-approved BDE course online, priced at $494. Once you complete it, you’re eligible to book your G2 road test at the 8-month mark instead of 12.
Do you still need in-car lessons if you take BDE online?
Not necessarily. The theory course covers the knowledge side of driving. In-car lessons are where you build the actual skills you need to pass your road test. Depending on each student and the driving they do, some might need extra classes and some might be good to go.
Driving and practicing driving skills with parents or experienced family members can be a great tool to limit extra classes.
Most students who pass on their first attempt combine the online BDE course with regular in-car practice. How many lessons you need depends on your comfort level and how quickly you pick things up behind the wheel.
With Drivisa, in-car lessons are from $52/hour. You choose your instructor based on reviews, availability, and language preference, then book directly through the app.
How much does it cost to get your G2 in Ontario?
Here’s a general breakdown of what to budget:
- G1 knowledge test fee: $156 (paid at the DriveTest center)
- MTO-approved BDE course: $494 (through Drivisa)
- Extra In-car lessons: starting from $52/hour (through Drivisa)
- G2 road test fee: $0 if its a first time (as it is part of the G1 payment) and $53.75 for renewals (paid to the DriveTest center)
- Test-day vehicle rental (optional): $170 (through Drivisa, if you need a certified vehicle for your road test)
The BDE course is your biggest single expense outside of lessons, but it’s also and investment, it is what unlocks the shorter wait time and qualifies you for insurance discounts once you’re licensed.
Does completing BDE help with car insurance?
Yes. Most insurance providers in Ontario offer a discount for new drivers who have completed an MTO-approved BDE program. The discount varies by provider, but it’s a recognized factor in how your rate is calculated.
If you’re planning to drive after you get your G2, the BDE course pays for itself in reduced premiums over time.
How to get your G2 faster: a step-by-step summary
- Get your G1 by passing the written knowledge test at a DriveTest centre
- Enroll in an MTO-approved BDE course and complete the theory online
- Book in-car lessons with a certified instructor to build your skills
- Book your G2 road test at the 8-month mark (instead of waiting 12)
- Show up prepared with a vehicle you’ve practiced in, or rent one through the platform on test day
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I book my G2 test before 8 months if I have BDE?
No. 8 months is the minimum wait with an approved BDE course. You can book your test anytime after that point.
2. Does it matter which BDE provider I use?
Yes. The course has to be MTO-approved. Always confirm before enrolling. Drivisa’s BDE course is MTO-approved.
3. Can I take BDE if I already have my G1?
Yes. You can start a BDE course at any point after getting your G1.
4. What happens if I don’t take BDE?
You can still get your G2 without BDE, you’ll just need to wait the full 12 months from your G1 test date before booking your road test.
Ready to get started? You can enroll in Drivisa’s MTO-approved BDE course at drivisa.com and get started for $49.
