If you’re asking, “Can I get insurance with a G1 in Ontario?” or “Do G1 drivers even need insurance?” — you’re not alone. These are super common questions for new drivers (and their parents). Here’s the straightforward answer: G1 drivers don’t usually have their own insurance policies, but they do need to be covered. Most of the time, that means being added to a parent or guardian’s policy.
Why? Because even though a G1 driver is learning and always has a fully licensed driver in the car with them, insurance is still required. It protects everyone if something goes wrong. Now, here’s where it gets real: adding a G1 driver to an existing policy might raise the premium a bit, but it’s necessary. Not adding them could create major headaches if there’s an accident — think unpaid claims and legal issues.
If this all sounds like a lot, don’t worry. I’ll break it all down for you step by step so you know exactly what to expect. Let’s get started.
Understanding the G1 License in Ontario
Ontario’s Graduated Licensing System (GLS) helps new drivers learn step by step. It starts with the G1 license—your learner’s permit. Here’s the deal:
– You must be 16 or older, pass a knowledge test, and meet basic vision standards.
– Always drive with a fully licensed driver (4+ years of experience) in the passenger seat.
– No alcohol. No driving between midnight and 5 a.m. No highways with speeds over 80 km/h unless you’re with a licensed instructor.
After 12 months (or 8 months with driver’s ed), you can graduate to your G2 license, where you get more freedom. Another year after that, you’re eligible for your full G license.
The GLS is all about building confidence and skills while keeping you (and others) safe. It works—and it’s the foundation for every driver in Ontario.
Can You Get Insurance With A G1 In Ontario?
No, you cannot get insurance solely under your name with a G1 license in Ontario. G1 drivers must be listed as secondary or occasional drivers on the insurance policy of a fully licensed (G2 or G) driver, such as a parent or guardian. This is because G1 drivers are required to have a fully licensed driver accompany them at all times, making it unnecessary for them to have their own standalone insurance policy.
Do G1 Drivers Need Insurance?
Yes, absolutely. Every driver in Ontario, including G1 learners, must be insured while driving. But here’s the thing: G1 drivers don’t need their own policy. Instead, they’re covered under the policy of the car they’re driving.
Insurance companies typically view G1 drivers as lower risk because they can’t drive alone. That means premiums aren’t as high as they might be for a fully licensed driver. When your G1 driver moves up to a G2 license, though, the insurance game changes.
How Are G1 Drivers Covered?
Most G1 drivers are added to a parent’s or guardian’s car insurance. Here’s how it works:
– Occasional Driver: G1 drivers are listed as occasional drivers on the family policy.
– Minimal Premium Impact: Since G1 drivers can only drive with a licensed supervisor, insurance companies see them as lower risk. This usually means only a small increase in premiums.
– You Must Inform Your Insurer: Always notify your insurance provider when a G1 driver starts driving. If they’re not listed and there’s an accident, claims could be denied.
Getting Insurance with a G1 License
Can a G1 Driver Get Their Own Insurance?
Nope. G1 drivers can’t get their own insurance because they can’t drive alone. Insurance is tied to the car and its main driver, so G1 drivers are covered by being added to someone else’s policy—usually a parent or guardian.
What Happens When You Add a G1 Driver?
- Premiums Might Go Up: Adding a G1 driver can raise your insurance a little, but since they’re always supervised, the increase is usually small.
- Future Costs: Think of this as a practice run for the G2 stage, where premiums will likely rise more.
How Do You Add a G1 Driver?
- Call Your Insurer: Let them know there’s a new G1 driver in your household.
- Share Details: Provide the driver’s name, license number, and the car they’ll use most.
- Update the Policy: The insurer adds the G1 driver as an “occasional driver” and adjusts the premium.
- Confirm Coverage: Double-check that the policy now covers the G1 driver in case of an accident.
Why This Is Important ? Adding a G1 driver isn’t optional—it’s essential. Without this step, any claims involving the G1 driver could be denied, leaving you on the hook financially.
How Much Does G1 Insurance Cost in Ontario?
Adding a G1 driver to your car insurance in Ontario usually bumps up your premium by $500 to $1,000 a year. It’s an investment in safety—and a step toward helping your new driver build experience on the road.
Adding a G1 driver to your car insurance will increase your premiums, but not as much as you might think. Here’s what you need to know:
Why Does It Cost More?
- Inexperience: New drivers are more likely to make mistakes, even with supervision.
- Policy Adjustment: Adding a G1 driver changes the risk profile for your policy, which can raise costs.
How Much Will It Go Up?
The increase is usually small—typically a few hundred dollars per year. The exact amount depends on:
- The driver’s age (younger drivers cost more).
- The car they drive (older, less expensive cars cost less to insure).
- Your household’s driving history (claims or tickets can bump up costs).
How to Keep Costs Down
- Take Driver’s Ed: Many insurers offer discounts for completing a driver’s education course.
- Pick the Right Car: Adding a G1 driver to an older, less expensive vehicle can save money.
- Ask About Discounts: Bundling home and auto insurance or asking about family discounts can help.
What Happens If a G1 Driver Gets Into an Accident?
If a G1 driver causes an accident, the car’s insurance policy covers it. Since G1 drivers are usually listed under a parent’s or guardian’s policy, any claims go through that policy. But here’s the catch: an at-fault accident can raise premiums for the policyholder. That’s why it’s so important for G1 drivers to follow all the rules, like driving with a licensed supervisor. Breaking the rules could mean denied claims or legal trouble.
The good news? With proper coverage, everyone is protected—even when mistakes happen.
Moving to G2 and Full G Licenses
Moving from a G1 to a G2 is a big milestone for new drivers in Ontario. Hold your G1 for at least 12 months (or 8 months with driver’s ed) and pass a road test. With a G2, you can finally drive solo, but there are still rules, like limits on alcohol and passengers at night.
Insurance changes too. Premiums often go up because driving alone is riskier than supervised driving. Once you get your full G license (after 12 months with a G2), restrictions are lifted, and safe driving can help bring your premiums down. Each step gives you more freedom—and more responsibility—on the road and in your wallet.
FAQ:
1. Can a G1 driver practice in another car?
Yes, as long as the car is insured and there’s a fully licensed driver (4+ years of experience) supervising.
2. Does adding a G1 driver change the car’s insurance rating?
Nope. The car’s rating stays the same, but adding a G1 driver might raise the premium slightly.
3. What if a G1 driver gets a ticket?
Tickets can impact the primary policyholder’s premiums, so G1 drivers need to follow the rules to avoid fines.
4. Can G1 drivers rent a car?
No. Rental companies require a full G license to rent a car.
5. Do you have to tell your insurer about a G1 driver?
Yes. If you don’t list them and they get into an accident, your claims could be denied—or worse, your policy canceled.
6. Does driver’s ed help with G1 insurance costs?
Not right away. But it can unlock discounts once the driver moves to a G2.
7. Can G1 drivers drive outside Ontario?
Maybe. It depends on the local laws of the province, state, or country. Always check first.
8. What happens if a G1 driver drives alone?
That’s a big no. Driving solo as a G1 is illegal and can lead to fines, a suspended license, and invalid insurance if there’s an accident.
How Ontario Insurance Can Help with G1 Driver Coverage?
Getting the right insurance coverage for a G1 driver doesn’t have to be complicated. Our experts at Ontario Insurance can guide you through the process, ensuring your young driver is properly covered while keeping your costs manageable. Have questions about adding a G1 driver to your policy? Let’s talk—get the right advice and peace of mind today!
