Ontario M1 Test
Ontario M1 Motorcycle Knowledge Test (M1 Licence Written Test)
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Cheat sheet
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ExploreAbout this exam
The M1 is Ontario's entry-level motorcycle licence, issued after you pass an eye test and a written knowledge test at a DriveTest centre. It is for new riders aged 16 or older who want to begin Ontario's graduated motorcycle licensing process, which runs M1, then M2, then a full M licence. The written test covers two areas: the rules of the road and traffic signs. Passing it grants an M1 licence valid for 90 days, during which you ride only in daylight, always alone, with zero blood alcohol, and not on roads with speed limits over 80 km/hour except the highways the province lists. You must wait at least 60 days before your first road test. To prepare, study Ontario's Official Motorcycle Handbook ($14.95 plus taxes), which covers rules of the road and practical riding tips, and review traffic signs until you can identify them instantly. Bring original identification showing your legal name, date of birth and signature to the DriveTest centre, and be ready for the eye test at the same visit. This guide is independent study material and is not affiliated with the Government of Ontario.
What you'll study
About Ontario M1 Test preparation
What does the M1 written test cover?
It is a written knowledge test about the rules of the road and traffic signs. You take it at a DriveTest centre along with an eye test. Ontario's Official Motorcycle Handbook is the province's stated study resource and covers rules of the road plus practical riding tips.
Who can apply for an M1 licence?
Anyone at least 16 years old. You must pass an eye test and the written test, and bring original identification showing your legal name, date of birth and signature. From May 11, 2026, applicants also declare that Ontario is their primary residence and that their presence in Canada is legal.
How long is the M1 licence valid, and when can I take the first road test?
The M1 is valid for 90 days, and you must wait at least 60 days before your first road test. If the M1 expires before you progress, you start over. Plan your practice so the wait period does not catch you unprepared.
What restrictions apply while I hold an M1?
Zero blood alcohol, riding only in daylight (from half an hour before sunrise to half an hour after sunset), an approved helmet, no passengers, and no roads with speed limits over 80 km/hour except highways 11, 17, 61, 69, 71, 101, 102, 144 and 655.
How much does the official handbook cost and where can I get it?
Ontario's Official Motorcycle Handbook costs $14.95 plus taxes. You can buy it online through ServiceOntario, at a DriveTest centre, or from many retail stores. It is the province's recommended preparation material for the written knowledge test.
How long until I can get my full M licence?
After passing the M1 road test you get an M2. You can take the second road test after 22 months, or after 18 months if you complete a recognized Motorcycle Safety Course. Once you hold an M2, you have up to five years to finish the learning process before starting over.
What happens if I fail a road test?
If you fail a motorcycle road test and your licence has not expired, you can try the road test again. If your licence is expired, you must start the whole process over and pay the fees again. Cancel or reschedule at least 48 hours ahead to avoid a cancellation fee.
What is the most common way candidates lose marks or time?
Two avoidable mistakes stand out: treating the 60-day wait as study time instead of booking early, and letting the 90-day M1 lapse before passing the first road test. Learn the M1 restrictions cold, since they govern every practice ride you take.
Should I study rules of the road or signs first?
Cover both, because the test draws on each. Signs reward fast recognition, so drill them in short frequent sessions. Rules of the road need more reasoning, so read the handbook section by section and revisit the M1 restrictions and right-of-way rules until they are automatic.