So, you’re thinking about moving from Ontario to New Brunswick—or maybe you’re already there. That’s exciting! But if you’ve got an Ontario G license in your pocket, you’re probably wondering what happens next. Can you just swap it out? Is the Ontario G License equivalent in New Brunswick? Well, yes and no—and the differences might catch you off guard.

We’re going to unpack this in the simplest way possible. Think of it like switching from driving in a big city to cruising through small-town streets. The rules might look similar, but a few subtle changes can make a big difference. And if you’re like most people, you’d want a trusted guide along the way. That’s where providers like Aaxel Insurance shine—they help bridge these provincial differences with ease.

Let’s break this down and explore four surprising ways the G license doesn’t exactly match its New Brunswick counterpart.

1. New Brunswick’s Class 5 License: Not Just a Straight Swap

At first glance, the Ontario G License equivalent in New Brunswick seems to be the Class 5 license. But don’t let that similarity fool you. While both allow you to drive the same types of vehicles (like cars, vans, and small trucks), the journey to get them isn’t quite the same.

In Ontario, getting your G license is a tiered process—first G1, then G2, and finally the full G. It takes around 20 months if you’re fast. In New Brunswick, it’s also staged: you get a Class 7 Level 1, then Level 2, and finally graduate to Class 5. But here’s the twist—timelines and requirements differ, especially around road test styles and wait periods.

When you transfer, New Brunswick wants to see proof of experience. If you’ve had your G license for less than two years, you might not get a full Class 5 right away. You could be placed in their graduated program instead. Frustrating? A little. But it’s their way of ensuring drivers are fully prepared.

Key takeaways:

• Ontario G = NB Class 5, but it’s not always one-to-one.

• Experience matters—two years of driving history is a game-changer.

• New Brunswick may require re-testing depending on your license age.

2. Testing Requirements and the Paper Chase

One of the biggest curveballs? The documents you need to show. In Ontario, everything’s fairly digital. But New Brunswick loves paperwork. When you apply to transfer your G license, be ready to dig out old driving records, insurance letters, and maybe even your first road test results.

And yes, there might be a vision test. If you’ve worn glasses for years, that’s no surprise. But if you haven’t had to prove your vision in a while, it might feel like stepping back into high school health class.

A friend of mine moved from Mississauga to Moncton last year. He walked into Service New Brunswick thinking it’d be a 10-minute swap. Three hours later, he was still in line—with the wrong paperwork. Don’t be that person.

Here’s what to prep before the transfer:

• Valid Ontario G license

• Government-issued ID (passport works great)

• Driving abstract (available through ServiceOntario)

• Proof of address in New Brunswick

• Possibly a recent eye exam

Comparison of Transfer Requirements

3. Insurance Surprises: Not All Rates Are Equal

If you think your Ontario insurance discounts will carry over, think again. This is where many newcomers to New Brunswick are caught off guard. Insurance rules and rates change from province to province—and they’re often cheaper in New Brunswick. But cheaper doesn’t mean automatic savings.

Here’s the kicker: your history helps, but only if your new provider recognizes it. Some local insurers in NB may not immediately honor your clean record from Ontario. That’s where companies like Aaxel Insurance come in. They specialize in smoothing this transition and making sure your premiums reflect your good driving—not just your new postal code.

When I moved provinces, I learned this the hard way. My Ontario insurer didn’t operate in NB. I had to find a new one, and the first quote was double what I paid in Toronto. One phone call to an insurance advisor saved me hundreds—just because they knew how to match my record properly.

Tips for lower NB insurance rates:

• Ask your Ontario insurer for a Letter of Experience

• Bring proof of no claims or at-fault accidents

• Choose a broker familiar with cross-province transitions

• Consider bundling auto with home insurance for discounts

4. Cultural and Driving Environment Adjustments

Now, let’s talk real-world stuff. Driving in New Brunswick is a whole vibe. You won’t find the 401 or Highway 427 chaos here. Instead, think forest-lined roads, slower speeds, and way less traffic. It’s peaceful—but also a little trickier when the snow hits or you’re dodging moose at dusk.

In Ontario, you might be used to aggressive lane changes and bumper-to-bumper traffic. In New Brunswick, people wave you in and let you go first. Friendly? Yes. But it also means adjusting your instincts. Being overly aggressive can come off as rude here, while hesitation can confuse other drivers.

Winter driving is another beast. NB gets heavy snow and ice, and while the traffic is lighter, the roads aren’t always cleared as quickly as in the GTA. If you haven’t already, invest in good winter tires—they’re not just smart, they’re mandatory in some situations.

Bullet points for quick cultural tips:

• Locals are courteous—mirror that energy.

• Always wave when someone lets you merge.

• Get snow tires by November—seriously.

• Watch for wildlife on rural roads, especially at night.

• Fewer traffic lights = more stop signs. Stay alert.

Final Thoughts: It’s Not Just a License, It’s a Lifestyle Shift

Moving from Ontario to New Brunswick isn’t just about swapping licenses—it’s about embracing a different pace of life. While the Ontario G License equivalent in New Brunswick may be the Class 5, the path to recognition isn’t automatic. But with the right prep—and maybe the help of pros like Aaxel Insurance—it doesn’t have to be stressful.

Think of this shift as more than paperwork. It’s your chance to start fresh in a new place that offers community, calm, and coastlines. Get your documents in order, find an insurance advisor who gets it, and embrace the ride—literally and figuratively.

And hey, if you ever miss the 401 traffic jams… well, just kidding. Nobody does.