Can you take the G1 test in Chinese?

Short answer: yes, there is a Chinese option. DriveTest lists it as "Chinese (Cantonese)", and Mandarin is not listed separately. Below is exactly what DriveTest publishes, what we can and can't confirm from it, and how Mandarin speakers can prepare.

What DriveTest says

• 32 languages for the computer G1 test. DriveTest's Knowledge Tests page says computerized Class G1 knowledge tests are offered in 32 languages. The only Chinese entry on that list is "Chinese (Cantonese)". There is no entry for Mandarin.
• Audio on every computer kiosk. DriveTest says all computerized knowledge test kiosks have an audio function, and you can skip or repeat questions. Its Translators & Languages page describes the computer tests as having "full audio support". Tell the agent before you enter the test room if you want audio.
• Paper tests. The Knowledge Tests page says paper G1 tests come in the same languages, but the Translators & Languages page says paper G1 tests are available in 20 languages. The two pages don't match, so if you want paper, ask the centre.
• Interpreters. You can book a verbal test, read aloud by a DriveTest employee, and bring an interpreter. There's no extra fee for the verbal test, but you pay the interpreter. Interpreters must meet DriveTest's qualification rules and show proof. In the GTA, central and eastern regions, for example, they must be accredited or certified.
• Road tests are English or French only. No interpreter or other passenger may ride along. Examiners may use hand signals and simple terms like "turn left", "stop" and "park".

What we can't confirm

DriveTest's pages don't say whether the on-screen Chinese text uses Simplified or Traditional characters. They also don't say exactly how the "(Cantonese)" label applies to the written text versus the audio. We won't guess. There's also no official Mandarin version listed, and we don't claim there is one.

What this means for Mandarin speakers

• Written Chinese is shared across Mandarin and Cantonese, so many Mandarin speakers can read a Chinese-language test. Expect any Chinese audio to be Cantonese, based on DriveTest's label.
• If you read Simplified Chinese only, practise reading Traditional characters too, in case the test uses them. Our site's 繁 switch helps with that.
• If your English reading is reasonable, think about taking the test in English. It matches the road signs and the road test, and the English audio can help.
• If neither works for you, ask DriveTest about a verbal test with a qualified interpreter. Book it in advance.

Study tips

1. Learn the English sign names. Signs on Ontario roads are in English, and some are also in French. "YIELD", "DO NOT ENTER" and "SCHOOL ZONE" need to mean something to you instantly. Our sign library shows the English name next to the Chinese.
2. Use the EN / 简 / 繁 switch. Every practice question on g1-test.ca can be shown in English, Simplified Chinese or Traditional Chinese. Do a test in Chinese first to check you understand the rule, then repeat it in English.
3. Learn key terms in both languages. Right-of-way (优先通行权), demerit points (扣分), blood alcohol (血液酒精浓度), accompanying driver (陪驾人).
4. Prepare for the road test in English, since it's English or French only. Practise common directions with your accompanying driver.
5. Check the format. See how the G1 test is scored and the test day checklist.

Planning to become a citizen later? The citizenship test is also offered only in English or French. CitizenNow has free practice tests for it in the same style as this site, with explanations in Chinese.

FAQ

Sources: DriveTest – Knowledge Tests, DriveTest – Translators & Languages. Checked November 2026.