Driver’s Ed 101—ON
A Step-by-Step Guide for Driver Education in Ontario
If you’re working toward your Ontario G2 or full G licence, completing an MTO-approved Beginner Driver Education (BDE) program can help you learn faster, drive safer, and become eligible for an insurance discount.
At Laurentian Driving School, we offer a complete BDE program that includes flexible online or in-person theory, 10 hours of in-car training with certified instructors, and 10 hours of self-paced online homework. Our courses are competitively priced to be highly affordable.
Whether you’re a teen getting behind the wheel for the first time or an adult looking to drive confidently, this guide will walk you through every step of the driver’s ed process.
Step 1 – Start In-Class or Virtual Instruction
When you sign up, you can select your preferred classroom course format for learning traffic laws and road signs; defensive driving strategies; risk perception and accident avoidance; and sharing the road with cyclists, pedestrians, and emergency vehicles.
Choose your classroom:
- In-Class Learning – Available at select Laurentian locations with scheduled group sessions.
- Virtual Class (Zoom) – Attend a live online session from anywhere in Ontario.
- Online Homework Modules – 10 hours of required e-learning you complete on your own schedule.
Once registered, you’ll receive access to the theory course materials and begin earning credit toward your BDE certificate. You’ll attend 20 hours of instructor-led in-person or virtual online classroom training. These are structured to help you understand the Ontario road system and prepare for real-life scenarios.
Recommended Reading
Browse your nearest Laurentian Driving School location to see in-class options.
Step 2 – Complete the 10 Hours of Online Homework
This Ministry-required e-learning is done independently through our secure online portal. You’ll work through interactive modules and quizzes that reinforce what you’ve learned in class.
Topics include:
Attitude and awareness on the road
Rules of the road and safe driving behaviours
Visual scanning and hazard detection
You must complete all modules and pass the quizzes to earn your full BDE credit.
Step 3 – Book and Begin In-Car Lessons
YOnce your theory and homework hours are in progress or complete, we’ll assign a certified driving instructor for your 10 hours of in-car lessons.
Why 10 hours?
10 hours of in-car training is the minimum required for Beginner Driver Education courses as mandated by the Ministry of Transportation. If you feel you need more than 10 hours, you can book additional hours at our hourly rate, or upgrade to a road test package which also allows you to use the instructor’s safety-certified car for your road test.
Lessons are usually booked in 1-2 hour blocks, and can be as spread out over time as you prefer.
What to Expect During Your Lesson
Your instructor will pick you up and drop you off at your preferred location. Please provide 24 hours notice if you expect to miss your in-car lesson; otherwise a no-show fee may apply.
You will practice driving behind the wheel of a Laurentian Driving School car with the instructor beside you. Please ensure you have your G1 licence with you at all times. As per MTO rules, you cannot have passengers in the vehicle with you during training.
Lessons are customized to your needs, and may include:
Parking, turns, lane changes, and intersection practice
- Defensive driving and speed management
- Prepping for your G2 road test with route simulations
Optional: Add a Road Test Package
Many students choose to add a G2 or G road test package that includes:
- Extra in-car lessons
- Use of the instructor’s vehicle on test day
- Pickup and drop-off at home or the test centre
This option is ideal if you’re nervous, unsure about test routes, or want the best chance of passing on your first try.
Practice for your test with Trubicars
Step 4 – Finish the Program & Receive Your Certificate
After completing your 20 hours of classroom (or virtual) learning, 10 hours of online homework, and 10 hours of in-car instruction, you’ll receive an MTO-certified Driver’s Education Certificate, automatically entered into the Ministry’s system. This may qualify you for:
- Insurance discounts from participating providers
- A reduced G1 licensing period (8 months instead of 12)
You will now be eligible to book your G2 road test.
For test details, visit:
Why Choose Laurentian Driving School?
With decades of experience, Ministry certification, and trusted instructors across Ontario, we’ve helped thousands of students become safe, confident drivers. We offer:
- Flexible course formats (in-class, Zoom, e-learning)
- Certified, patient instructors
- Road test packages and individual lessons
- BDE registration in both English and French
We’re proud to serve locations across Ontario including Chatham, Sudbury, Cornwall, Belleville, and more.