FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
DRIVEWISE NEW DRIVER TRAINING
A : Yes! Drivewise a certified Beginner Driver Education (BDE) provider. This means our program meets Ontario’s official standards for driver training, helping students learn safe, responsible and regulated driving.
A: Our student-centered approach combines in-class, in-car, and online learning tailored to individual needs. We prioritize safety, teaching defensive driving techniques to prepare students for real-world conditions. Find out more about what makes Drivewise unique from other driver training programs HERE.
A: Yes. Our inclusive training welcomes learners of all backgrounds and abilities, including nervous drivers – with patient, MTO-certified instructors dedicated to their success.
A: The Drivewise Safe Start program includes a total of 40 hours including in-class sessions, online learning (Homelink) and in-car lessons.
- 20 hours of interactive and engaging in class training
- 10 hours of private one-on-one in-car training
- 10 hours of Homelink online learning
Drivewise is one of the most advanced and interactive MTO-certified programs for new drivers in Ontario.
A: Homelink is the online portion of the Drivewise Safe Start program. Students complete it at home at their own pace before beginning in-car training.
Access Homelink at https://drivewisesafetyonline.com/. If you forget your password, click “Forgot your password?” on the login page or contact us directly.
PAYMENTS & FEES
A: At Drivewise, our Safestart program fees are based on a full beginner driving course program that includes in-class, in-car and online learning. Please visit our website fees schedule. The cost of a certified driver training program will help you save money on your car insurance.
We accept cash, cheque, or e-transfer with the following payment options:
- Pay Now: Complete payment during online registration.
- Pay Later: Receive an invoice one week before your course start date. Payment is due within the first week of the course and can be sent via e-transfer to [email protected].
CERTIFICATES & INSURANCE
A: Yes! Completing a Ministry of Transportation Ontario (MTO)-approved Beginner Driver Education (BDE) program, like Drivewise, can help you save on car insurance. Many insurance providers offer discounts for new drivers who complete an accredited driver training program. Savings vary by provider, so we recommend checking with your insurance company to see how much you can save!
A: After completing all course components (in-class, Homelink, and in-car training), submitting a copy of your driver’s license, and making full payment, we will certify you and email your certificate to the address on your registration form. You can then forward it to your insurance provider to qualify for potential discounts.
A: A Driver’s History Report, available from Service Ontario, provides details about your driving record, including any tickets or collisions. It can be purchased at Service Ontario.
IN-CAR LESSONS & SCHEDULING
A: In order to start your in-car lessons, you must complete your classroom sessions and Home Link assignments. Once these are completed, please contact our office at [email protected] to be assigned to an instructor.
A: Missed in-class sessions may need to be rescheduled. Contact us for options. If you miss an in-car lesson, inform your instructor as soon as possible
MINISTRY OF TRANSPORTATION ONTARIO (MTO)
A: Ontario’s Graduated Licensing System (GLS) helps new drivers in Ontario gain experience over two stages before earning full driving privileges. The process for drivers allows time to gain valuable experience and skills. This process takes at least 20 months and includes new drivers applying for their first car or motorcycle license. Drivers have 5 years to complete the program.
A: Ontario’s Graduated Licensing Program involves the following steps:
- G1 Licence: Pass a vision and written knowledge test (road signs & rules). Must be at least 16 years old and provide valid identification. The written test is made up of two parts: Signs and Rules of the Road. To best prepare for this test, purchase and read ‘The Official MTO Driver’s Training Hand Book‘, or take the Drivewise Safe Start training program before your test.
- G2 Licence: Eligible after 12 months with a G1 (or 8 months if you complete an MTO-approved driving program like our Drivewise Safe Start Program). The G2 License requires a road test to pass. During your G2 road test, you are evaluated on your knowledge and skills behind the wheel.
- Full G Licence: Eligible 12 months after getting a G2. Includes a highway driving test. You must complete the process within five years of getting your G1. At Drivewise, our in-car training will help you prepare for both for G2 and G license.
A: You can book online at www.drivetest.ca or by visiting your local DriveTest centre. You will need to bring a safe, roadworthy vehicle for your road test.
A: After passing your G1 road test, you receive a G2 licence. You must practice with your G2 for 12 months. With a G2, you can:
- Drive without another experienced driver in the car.
- Drive on all Ontario roads at any time, in most cases.
A: The restrictions for a G2 license are:
- You must have a zero blood alcohol level.
- All passengers must have a working seatbelt.
- Drivers under 19: For the first 6 months, you can only carry one passenger under 19 between midnight and 5 a.m. After 6 months, you may carry up to three passengers under 19 during those hours.
- Exceptions: This restriction does not apply if you have a fully licensed driver (4+ years experience, zero alcohol) in the car or if your passengers are immediate family members.
Helpful Links
Obtaining a drivers licence in Ontario is no easy task. The links provided below are a great resource for understanding the process. Learn everything from what is needed from getting your G1 – to renewing your licence plate sticker, and more. When you are done here, please check out the Drivewise Safe Start program. The most advanced driving school in Simcoe. Need help for your road test? We offer driving lessons in Simcoe.
Official MTO Driver’s Handbook. The best way to study for the G1 test is to attend the Drivewise Safe Start drive’s training course. If that is not an option, the next best thing is the driver’s handbook. Purchase your own copy: click here
- Practice the Sign Portion of the G1 test: click here
- Head to DriveTest's Offical site to book your test: click here
- Vehicle Requirements for G2 and G road test: click here
- Declaration From a Guarantor: click here
- Driving information from Service Ontario (including renewing your licence plate sticker and renewing your licence): click here
- Driver’s Licence History Report that insurance companies require for proof of Driver Training completion: click here
