As you are aware Ontario, Canada has a graduated licensing system. This graduated licensing process lets new drivers get driving experience and skills gradually. The two-step licensing process takes at least 20 months to complete. The first step is the G1 and the second is the G2 before you move up to a full valid G driver's license.

When the new driver has completed the G1 road test and progressed in their driving skills so that they can obtain their G2 license there are less restrictions placed on the driver. While there are still some restrictions in place at this level, the driver has more privileges because of their driving experience.

Now as a G2 driver you may drive without an accompanying driver on all Ontario roads anytime according to what we have read on the Ontario Ministry of Transportation (MTO) site. The MTO notes that since you have been issued a G2 licence you are no longer subject to the six restrictions of the G1 license, including the requirement to have a fully licensed driver accompany you in the vehicle and prohibition from driving on 400-series expressways.

As a G2 license holder you do still have some restrictions or conditions placed upon you which include to:

• maintain a zero blood alcohol level while driving;
• ensure the number of passengers in the vehicle is limited to the number of working seat belts.

To further protect youth on the roadways since September 1, 2005 the MTO has limited the number of young passengers that teen G2 drivers can carry from midnight to 5 a.m. as follows:

• Initially, G2 drivers 19 or under can carry only one passenger aged 19 or under.
• After the first six months, and until the G2 driver earns a full G licence or turns 20, they can carry only three passengers aged 19 or under.

The passenger restrictions do not apply if the G2 driver is operating a motor vehicle after 5 a.m. and before midnight.

These restrictions also do not apply if the G2 driver is accompanied by a full G licensed driver (with at least four years driving experience) in the front seat, or if the passengers are immediate family members.

For more information on the whole licensing process, restrictions on drivers, etc in Ontario contact MTO directly. As a G2 holder you should be listed on your parents Canadian car insurance. There is a premium charge for a G2 driver. Typically credit will be given for the one year driving experience you received as a G1. You might also be able to receive a rate reduction for any driver's training you have taken.