On Sept. 27, the Government of Alberta announced that the advanced road test to obtain a full Class 5 or 6 drivers licence will no longer be required. Prasad Panda, Minister of Transportation, provided the reason as, “Many Albertans have told us that the advanced test costs too much, is a roadblock to finding jobs and has created unnecessary red tape. That’s why we are eliminating the advanced road test for (Class 5) passenger vehicles and (Class 6) motorcycles as well as the additional Class 4 road test while maintaining strong safety standards for drivers.”
The advanced road test cost $150 to take, which many said was too expensive. In a 2019 survey of Albertans on red tape reduction, one respondent said, “Advanced road tests are a waste of time and money for Albertans. These tests are not significantly different from a standard GDL test and serve only to cost Albertans more to drive.” Critics have pointed out that there are 700,000 drivers in Alberta who are choosing to stick with their Stage 2 licence rather than pay the $150. About 500,000 drivers out of the 700,000 will be able to automatically exit out of the program.
More than 65% of drivers and 99% of motorcycle riders did not take the test to earn a full Class 5 or Class 6 licence. Many simply did not want to pay $150 to take the test, fail it, and then have to pay again.
Requirements for a full Class 5 licence
Drivers must still progress through the two stages of a Class 7 probationary licence before they can apply for their Class 5.
Stage 1 Learners Licence
- Must be held for at least one year
- Drivers have to be accompanied by a fully licensed driver who is at least 18 years old at all times in the vehicle
- The accompanying driver must be seated in the passenger’s seat
- No driving from midnight to 5 a.m.
- No more than eight demerit points can be earned
- Drivers must not have any alcohol in their system (a blood-alcohol content of 0.00) at any time
Once the driver is at least 16 years old and passes a basic Alberta road test, they can move on to Stage 2.
Stage 2 Probationary Licence
- Must be held for at least two years
- No more than eight demerit points can be earned
- Drivers cannot have any alcohol in their system (a blood-alcohol content of 0.00) at any time
- Drivers cannot be a supervisory driver to someone with a Stage 1 Learners Licence
Probationary periods will be extended an additional year if drivers exhibit poor driving behaviour and earn demerits on their licence.
By taking an approved driver training course, drivers may be allowed to reduce their probationary period by up to six months. When completed, they will receive a Notice of Driver Education Course Completion form, which can also be used to access car insurance at discounted rates.
Requirements for a Class 6 licence
To obtain a Class 6 motorcycle licence, riders must have a full Class 5 licence or be at least 16 years old and have had a Class 7 licence for at least one year. Existing licences can be brought to an Alberta registry agent in order to take a knowledge test. It is a good idea to study and practice ahead of time. Once the knowledge test has been passed, riders can schedule a road test through a registry agent or online through the Alberta Road Test Scheduler. Helmets need to fit for ear buds to a cell phone so that the adjudicator can pass on instructions throughout the test. Riders must operate their motorcycles for two years as a Class 6 GDL driver and have no licence suspensions during their final year to qualify for a full Class 6 licence.
Again, taking a certified motorcycle training course can be used to qualify for reduced motorcycle insurance rates.
Changes to the Class 4 drivers licence program
A Class 4 drivers licence is mandatory to transport passengers in taxis, ride-sharing vehicles, limousines, small buses and ambulances. The Government of Alberta has also removed the additional road test requirement for a Class 4 licence, but has retained the enhanced knowledge test, driver medical, and vision test requirements. There are hopes that this change will attract more competition to the ride-sharing industry.
Lane’s Insurance protects all of Alberta
Always remember that you have options when it comes to your car insurance and motorcycle insurance coverage. We at Lane’s are experienced insurance brokers who work with a range of providers, which means we can provide you with a range of choices for your insurance coverage. We do the shopping for you to ensure you are fully protected at the very best rate available. Contact us at our Calgary, Edmonton and Banff offices to learn more.
