Taking your driving test in the winter can feel stressful—but with the right preparation, you can pass confidently and safely. Winter roads in Ontario bring snow, ice, poor visibility, and slower reaction times. Here are expert tips to help you get ready for your G2 or G road test this season.
1. Warm Up Your Vehicle Before You Go
A cold engine, fogged windows, and icy mirrors can affect your performance.
Arrive early to clear snow, warm the cabin, and ensure perfect visibility.
2. Drive Smoothly and Avoid Sudden Movements
Examiners look for control.
Avoid:
- Hard braking
- Sudden steering
- Quick acceleration
Smooth, steady movements show confidence in winter conditions.
3. Keep a Longer Following Distance
On icy roads, braking distance can double.
Use a 6–8 second following distance to show the examiner you understand winter safety.
4. Practice on Real Winter Roads
Before test day, practice in:
- Light snow
- Slush
- Parking lots with low grip
The more you experience beforehand, the calmer you’ll feel during the test.
5. Know How to Recover From a Skid
If the car begins to slide:
- Ease off the gas
- Steer gently where you want to go
This shows the examiner that you can stay calm under pressure.
6. Use Proper Lane Position and Speed
In winter, safe speed doesn’t always match the posted limit.
Drive at a speed appropriate for conditions, even if it’s slightly lower.
Winter tests aren’t harder—they just require more awareness and preparation. Practice consistently and stay calm, and you’ll have a great chance of passing confidently.