Steps Required to Become a Fully Licensed Driver in Alberta

Introduced May 20, 2003

How do I become a Learner?

To get a Learner’s licence (Class 7L), you must:

• Be at least 14
• Take a vision test
• Take a driving knowledge test
• Have a parent or guardian’s consent (if you are under 18)

How long will I be in the Learner Phase?

You must be in the Learner Phase for at least 12 months. You can stay in the Learner Phase for up to five years. You can leave the Learner Phase no earlier than age 16.

What are the restrictions while I am in the Learner Phase?

You must drive with a supervisory driver who is 18 or older and is seated next to you. Other passengers in the car must be wearing seatbelts. You cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m. You cannot drink when you are driving – your blood alcohol must be zero. 

What else should I know?

If you break any traffic rules while you are a Learner, you can quickly lose your right to drive. You will be allowed only eight demerit points (instead of the 15 points allowed a Class 5 driver). If you get eight demerit points, you will lose the right to drive for 30 days.

If you get demerit points but choose to take a defensive driving course, you will have three points taken off your total. Fines and demerit points will be issued for any Learner Phase violation.

How do I become a Probationary Driver (Class 5)?

To go from the Learner Phase to being a Probationary Driver, you must pass the Alberta standard road test.

How long will I be a Probationary Driver?

You must be in the Probationary Phase for at least 24 months. You can leave the Probationary Phase no earlier than age 18 years.

What are the restrictions while I am a Probationary Driver?

Passengers in your car must be wearing seatbelts. You cannot drink when you are driving – your blood alcohol must be zero. You cannot upgrade to a commercial class driver’s licence. You cannot be an accompanying driver to a learner.

What else should I know?

You will be allowed only eight demerit points (instead of the 15 points allowed a regular Class 5 driver).

If you get demerit points but choose to take a defensive driving course, you will have three points taken off your total. Fines and demerit points will be issued for any Probationary Phase violation.

If you are charged with impaired driving, you must attend one of two courses, complete with a driver examination. You will lose the right to drive for 30 days if you break the no-drinking-and-driving rule.

To graduate from the Probationary Phase, you must be suspension free in the last year of this phase and you must pass the Enhanced Class 5 road test.

For more information, please visit http://www.saferoads.com/drivers/drivers_newdrivers.html

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