Alberta Graduated Licencing
*CHANGES HAVE BEEN MADE TO THE ALBERTA GRADUATED LICENSING PROGRAM. WE ARE IN THE PROCESS OF UPDATING OUR WEBSITE WITH THE CHANGES AND COMMON QUESTIONS NEW DRIVERS WANT TO KNOW. FOR NOW, PLEASE VISIT THE ALBERTA GOVERNMENT WEBSITE TO LEARN MORE:
https://www.alberta.ca/changes-to-driver-licensing-system.aspx
There are 3 stages that each person must go through to obtain a Class 5 licence. These stages are also known as the Graduated Driver Licence Program (GDL). This program will ensure that new drivers get the support, skills and experience they need to handle the complex task of driving.
Stage 1 – Class 7 Learner
Class 7
A Class 7 learner’s license in Alberta allows individuals to start learning how to drive under supervision. It’s the first step towards obtaining a full driver’s license.
For more information, please visit the Government of Alberta Website:
https://www.alberta.ca/class-7-learners-licence
Eligibility
To qualify for a Class 7 learner’s license, individuals must meet the following criteria:
- be of the minimum age of 14 years or older.
- pass a written knowledge test on traffic signs, rules, and safe driving practices.
- have parental or guardian consent if under 18 years of age.
- have Canadian citizenship, permanent residency, valid work or student visa, or approved refugee claim.
- have proof of Alberta residency, valid ID, and proof of residence in Canada.
Obtaining a Class 7 License:
- Pass a written knowledge test at a registry agent office.
- Pay the applicable fees.
- After obtaining the learner’s license, practice driving under supervision.
Restrictions:
- Must be accompanied by a fully licensed driver who is at least 18 years old.
- No blood alcohol level while driving.
- Must have the learner’s license for a minimum of 1 year before applying for the Class 5-GDL license.
Progression:
After holding the Class 7 license for at least 1 year and completing the required training, individuals can apply for a Class 5-GDL license to further their driving privileges.
Stage 2 – Probationary Class 5
A Class 5 license in Alberta allows driving various vehicles, including
- a 2-axle single motor vehicle,
- a motor home without airbrakes unless you hold an air brake certificate,
- tow a trailer with one or more axles if the trailer is not equipped with airbrakes, and
- a moped, a recreational vehicle, or any combination of recreational vehicles and a trailer, if the trailer has 2 axles or less, and isn’t equipped with airbrakes.
A Driver’s Education course is recommended but not mandatory.
For more detailed information, please visit the Government of Alberta Website:
https://www.alberta.ca/class-5-drivers-licence#jumplinks-2
Eligibility
Eligibility for Probationary Class 5 GDL:
- Minimum age is 16
- 1 year driving experience with Class 7 license
- Parental consent if under 18
- Canadian residency, valid ID, and proof of Alberta residence
Obtaining Class 5 GDL:
- Pass road and vision tests
- Purchase a Class 5 GDL license card (arrives in about 10-14 business days)
Stage 3 – Full Class 5
Steps in Obtaining Your Full Class 5 Licence
To become a fully licensed driver you:
- must be the minimum age of 18 yrs or older.
- have 24 months of probationary driving.
- have the option to reduce probation by up to 6 months with approved training.
- have a clean record for 12 months.
Upgrade to Full Class 5:
- Drive for 2 years as a Class 5 GDL
- Maintain a clean record (no suspensions or demerits in the last year).
Come into our Southland Registrations office with all the documents mentioned above and our friendly staff can assist you.