- Alberta Driver’s License Stages
- License and Vehicle Types
- Driving Suspensions
- How to Obtain a Commercial Driver’s License in Alberta
- Driver’s Knowledge Test in Alberta
- Road Test
- FAQs
If you’re looking to drive legally in Alberta, you’ll need to be familiar with several steps and license types. The process varies depending on the type of vehicle you wish to operate, and Alberta’s driver licensing system has recently changed to simplify certain stages. Here is everything you need to know about Alberta’s driving license,
Alberta Driver’s License Stages
In Alberta, obtaining a full, non-GDL Class 5 driver’s license typically takes a minimum of 3 years. Here’s a breakdown of the stages:
Stage 1: Learner’s License (Class 7)
To get a class 7 license in Alberta, you must:
- Be at least 14 years old
- Have consent from a parent or guardian if you’re under 18
- Pass a knowledge test
- Pass a vision test
Stage 2: Probationary License (Class 5-GDL)
To progress to a probationary license, you must:
- Be at least 16 years old
- Have had your Class 7 learner’s license for at least 12 months
- Pass the basic road test
Stage 3: Full License (Class 5)
To earn a full, non-GDL Class 5 license in Alberta, you must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Complete a 24-month probationary period (or reduce it by up to 6 months with an accredited driver training program)
- Remain free from suspensions and demerits for the last 12 months of your probationary period
Additional License Classes
For those interested in driving specific vehicles, Alberta offers a range of optional license classes:
- Class 6 (Motorcycle License in Alberta): You can drive a motorcycle or moped.
- Commercial Licenses: Alberta offers Classes 1, 2, 3, and 4 for operating larger vehicles like trucks and buses.
License and Vehicle Types
Alberta has seven different classes of driver’s licenses, each permitting you to operate different vehicles:
- Class 7 License in Alberta (Learner’s License): Drive a moped alone or any Class 5 or 6 vehicle under supervision.
- Class 5 (GDL and Full License): Drive a two-axle motor vehicle, motorhome, and tow trailers under certain conditions.
- Class 6 (Motorcycle License): Drive a motorcycle or moped.
- Class 1 (Commercial): Drive any motor vehicle except a motorcycle.
- Class 2 (Bus License): Drive buses and any Class 3, 4, or 5 vehicle.
- Class 3 license in Alberta (3 or More Axle License): Drive a single motor vehicle with 3 or more axles, or tow a trailer without airbrakes.
- Class 4 license in Alberta (Taxi and Ambulance License): Operate a taxi, ambulance, or small bus.
Driving Suspensions
Driving privileges in Alberta can be suspended for various reasons. It’s illegal to drive with a suspended or disqualified license. However, drivers serving a demerit suspension may apply for a Restricted Driver’s License, allowing them to drive for essential reasons such as employment or health appointments.
How to Obtain a Commercial Driver’s License in Alberta
If you’re looking to drive commercial vehicles in Alberta, there are four different classes of commercial licenses available, each allowing you to operate specific types of vehicles. Here’s a guide on how to upgrade to a commercial license and the steps involved.
Commercial Licence Classes
| Class | Permits You to Drive |
| Class 1 | Any motor vehicle, except motorcycles (Class 6 only as a learner) |
| Class 2 (Bus) | Any vehicle from Class 3, 4, or 5, plus buses. Class 1 or 6 vehicles as a learner. |
| Class 3 | Taxis, ambulances, buses that seat fewer than 25 people, and all Class 5 vehicles. |
| Class 4 (Taxi, Ambulance) | Taxis, ambulances, and buses that seat fewer than 25 people, and all Class 5 vehicles. |
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for a commercial license, you must:
- Hold a full Class 5 driver’s license
- Be at least 18 years old
- Hold a valid Alberta ID
Steps to Upgrade to a Commercial License
Step 1: Take the Knowledge Test
You can take the knowledge test at any registry agent. If you’re looking to drive a vehicle with air brakes, you’ll need to pass a specific Air Brake Knowledge Test as well.
Step 2: Pass the Vision Test
A registry agent will test your vision. A driver’s medical report is also required for Class 1, 2, and 4 licenses.
Step 3: Pass the Road Test
You can book your road test through a registry agent or online using the Alberta Road Test Scheduler.
Step 4: Purchase Your License Card
After successfully passing the knowledge, vision, and road tests, and receiving medical approval, you will receive a temporary commercial license valid for 30 days. Your permanent license card should arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. If it doesn’t arrive within 21 days, contact the number listed on your temporary license for further instructions. Be sure to report any missing licenses to a registry agent within 60 days to avoid replacement fees.
Once you receive your permanent license, destroy the temporary one.
Cost
Cost is subject to the registry.
Driver’s Knowledge Test in Alberta
Before obtaining any class of driver’s license in Alberta, you must pass a driver’s knowledge test. This test assesses your understanding of Alberta’s traffic laws and regulations, ensuring you’re prepared for safe driving.
Overview
The knowledge test is required for all driver’s license classes, except for Class 5, as the Class 7 learner’s license test serves as the prerequisite knowledge test for the Class 5 license. Additional knowledge tests are available for specific endorsements, such as:
- Air brake endorsement
- S-endorsement
- Safety Fitness Certificate (SFC) Compliance test
These tests are available at registry agent offices for a fee. The knowledge test consists of 30 multiple-choice questions, and you need to score at least 25 correct answers to pass. You may retake the test as many times as necessary, but only once per day, with a fee charged for each attempt.
Test Languages
The Class 7 knowledge test is available in 25 languages, including:
- Amharic
- Arabic
- Chinese (Simplified & Traditional)
- Cree
- English
- French
- Punjabi
- Russian
- Spanish
- Tagalog
- Urdu
- Vietnamese
If you prefer to take the test in another language, you can arrange for a translator at your own cost. For those with difficulty in English, the test can be taken with the help of audio-assistant devices that read out the questions and answers, or you may use a paper English conversion dictionary.
Requesting a Translator
To request a translator for the Class 7 knowledge test in one of the available languages, you must first complete at least three attempts of the test using any of the following methods:
- English audio assistance
- English assisted test
- Knowledge Testing System in English or any available language
If the language you need is not one of the 25 available, you can arrange for an approved translator with a valid Translation Identification Number (TIN) on your first attempt. You are responsible for scheduling and covering any costs associated with translation services.
Knowledge Tests for Other License Classes
For commercial licenses (Classes 1, 2, 3, 4, and 6) and the air brake knowledge test, the test is only available in English. However, similar to Class 7, you may use a paper English conversion dictionary if needed.
This process ensures that drivers in Alberta have the necessary knowledge to safely operate their vehicles, no matter which license class or endorsement they’re pursuing.
Driver’s Road Test in Alberta
Before you can receive a driver’s license in Alberta, you must pass a road test conducted by a qualified government or licensed driver examiner. Road tests are required for all classes of licenses, from Class 1 to Class 6.
Road Test: Recent Changes to Driver Licensing
As of April 1, 2023, drivers no longer need to take the advanced road test to exit the Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) program. For more details, visit the Changes to Driver Licensing System section.
How to Book Your Road Test
Step 1: Ensure Eligibility
Before booking, make sure you meet the eligibility requirements for the class of license you’re pursuing. Additionally, ensure your vehicle meets all safety standards. Those taking a road test for passenger vehicles must follow the health and safety guidelines set by registry agents.
Step 2: Pay Any Outstanding Fines
All outstanding fines owed to the Government of Alberta must be paid before you can book your road test.
Step 3: Booking Methods
You can book your road test in the following ways:
- Online: Book your test through the Alberta Road Test Scheduler.
- In-person: Visit an Alberta registry agent to book your road test.
You will need your Motor Vehicle Identification (MVID) number, the 9-digit number found on your Alberta driver’s license near the barcode.
Book the knowledge test at a registry agent for a Class 7 learner’s license or other license levels. It’s recommended that you call ahead to confirm their hours and services.
Driving Schools
All driving schools are responsible for determining when and how they provide their services safely. Make sure your driving school meets current safety requirements.
Passing Your Road Test
Each road test has a maximum number of demerit points you can accumulate before failing. Points are given when:
- You fail to demonstrate key driving skills (e.g., not checking mirrors or blind spots).
- You break traffic rules (e.g., ignoring road signs or making an incorrect turn).
- You perform a driving maneuver poorly (e.g., signaling too soon or too late, or driving too aggressively or hesitantly).
To pass, you must stay under the following point limits:
- Class 1, 2, or 3: Maximum of 50 points.
- Class 5 or 6: Maximum of 75 points.
You will receive an automatic fail if you:
- Endanger pedestrians or other drivers.
- Drive unsafely or recklessly.
- Break traffic laws during your test.
Road Test Fees
The fees for passenger vehicle road tests (Class 5 and 6) vary by registry agent, as private driver examiners deliver these tests. Each registry agent sets their fees, which must be published online. For specific fee information, contact your local registry office.
The fees for commercial vehicle road tests (Class 1, 2, and 3) are standard across Alberta and administered by government examiners.
| Class of Road Test | Fee |
| Class 1 | $217 |
| Class 2 | $167 |
| Class 3 | $155 |
FAQs About Alberta Driver’s License
1. What are the requirements to obtain a learner’s (Class 7) license in Alberta?
To get a Class 7 learner’s license in Alberta, you must be at least 14 years old, pass a vision test, and successfully complete a written knowledge test on Alberta’s traffic laws. If you are under 18, you’ll also need parental or guardian consent. Once you have a Class 7 license, you can begin learning to drive but must always be accompanied by a fully licensed driver at least 18 years old.
2. How long does it take to get a full Class 5 (non-GDL) driver’s license in Alberta?
It takes a minimum of 3 years to obtain a full, non-GDL Class 5 license in Alberta. After holding a Class 7 learner’s license for at least one year, you can take the road test to get a Class 5-GDL (probationary) license. You must then drive for 2 years with the Class 5-GDL, maintaining a clean driving record for the last 12 months, before upgrading to an entire Class 5 license. Completing an approved driver training program can reduce the probationary period by up to 6 months.
3. What vehicles can I drive with a Class 5 license in Alberta?
A Class 5 license allows you to drive a two-axle vehicle, such as a car, truck, or van. You can also drive a motorhome without airbrakes, tow a trailer with one or more axles (as long as the trailer doesn’t have airbrakes), and operate a moped. A Class 5 license also permits you to drive recreational vehicles and combinations of recreational vehicles and trailers that meet these conditions.
Navigating Alberta’s driver’s license system can feel like a lot, but with a clear understanding of the steps, you’ll hit the road confidently in no time. Whether you’re just starting with a learner’s permit or looking to upgrade to a commercial license, Alberta offers various paths depending on the vehicle you want to drive. Remember, safety and preparation are key, so make sure you know the rules and take the time to practice before heading out for your tests.
Ready to get behind the wheel? Alberta’s open roads are waiting for you!
