Most road test stress is about the unknown. Where do I park? What do they check? What happens if the car has a problem? Here’s how the day works at Hamilton’s DriveTest centre, using DriveTest’s own rules.
Where it is
The Hamilton DriveTest centre is at 370 Kenora Avenue North, Hamilton, L8E 2W2, in the east end near Barton Street. It offers both the G2 and the G road tests, along with knowledge tests and licence services.
When we checked in October 2026, DriveTest listed road tests running Monday to Saturday. Hours change, so check the centre’s listing on drivetest.ca before you go.
Booking your test
You can book, move or cancel a road test online, by phone, or in person at any DriveTest centre. You’ll need your licence number with its expiry date, a first choice of location plus two backups, and a preferred date and time.
- Online booking needs a Visa or Mastercard, and online slots can be booked up to 24 hours ahead.
- To cancel or reschedule without losing the fee, do it at least 48 hours before the test.
- You can’t book a test for a date after your licence expires.
What to bring
- Your current driver’s licence
- Glasses or contacts, if you need them to drive
- A printout of your road test confirmation email
- A car that passes the check below, with enough gas for the test
- Payment, only if you’re hoping for a standby appointment
Tip
Arrive early
DriveTest asks you to arrive at least 30 minutes before your test. Tests go ahead in any weather unless DriveTest tells you otherwise.
The car, and the check before you drive
DriveTest doesn’t provide cars. Yours can be owned, borrowed or rented, and it doesn’t have to be a driving instructor’s. It must be plated, insured and in proper working order.
Before the test, the examiner checks it. These problems can get the test declared out of order, which costs you half the fee:
- A turn signal, brake light, horn or speedometer that doesn’t work
- Wipers or defroster that don’t work when the weather needs them
- A damaged windshield
- A flat or temporary spare tire
- Passengers or pets in the car
Dash cameras and phones that record must be switched off, and driving aids such as backup cameras, parking assist, lane monitoring and cruise control can’t be used. If you’re on a G1, someone who meets the accompanying driver rules has to drive with you to the centre.
Need lessons before a test at Kenora? Call or text Mrs. Akbar.
During and after the test
You drive alone with the examiner. The G2 test usually takes about 20 minutes and the G test about 30, which includes highway driving. With your consent, a driving instructor or translator can help you at check-in and at the debrief.
If you pass, you go back inside to apply the result and get a temporary paper licence that’s valid for 90 days. Results you don’t apply within 12 months expire.
If you don’t pass, DriveTest generally asks you to wait at least 10 days before testing again. Your scoresheet shows what to work on.
Knowledge tests and licence exchanges
The G1 knowledge test is walk-in, with no appointment needed, and takes about 30 minutes. If you’re exchanging a licence from another province or country, Hamilton offers bookable appointments for exchanges, and any DriveTest centre accepts walk-ins. The newcomer’s licence guide has the details.
Sources
Quick answers
Where is the Hamilton DriveTest centre?
At 370 Kenora Avenue North, Hamilton, L8E 2W2, in the city’s east end.
Does the Hamilton DriveTest centre do G2 and G road tests?
Yes. DriveTest lists both the G2 and the G road test at the Hamilton centre.
Can I use my driving instructor’s car for the test?
You can use any car that’s plated, insured and in proper working order, whether it’s yours, borrowed or rented. It doesn’t have to belong to an instructor.