Alberta uses a graduated driver's license (GDL) system. The GDL licensing system was designed to ensure that all new drivers gain the experience, knowledge, instruction and support necessary to pass the required driving tests and knowledge test. You must be 14 years old to obtain your student license in Alberta. There are seven Alberta driver's licenses that drivers use to operate different motor vehicles under various conditions.
For some people, a driver may have more than one license; for example, a taxi driver who has a motorcycle needs Class 4 and 6 licenses. Transport Canada reports that while 93 percent of Canadians buckle up, seven percent do not account for nearly 40 percent. Alberta's GDL system is designed to ensure that all new drivers have the necessary experience, knowledge and instruction before they are granted a license. A learner's license (also known as a Class 7 license) is the first step to becoming a driver in Alberta.
If your license has expired for more than 6 months, you will need to provide a birth certificate, passport, or proof of Alberta residency to renew it. If you're reading this, chances are you've moved to Alberta or been here for a while and don't know the difference between licensing classes. Medical reports are also required for Class 1, 2, and 4 license holders and for all licenses with a “C endorsement” condition code. You must have your first stage learner's license for 1 year and spend 2 more years as a probationary driver in stage two.
Under Alberta transportation regulations, it's illegal to drive without a valid license. Alberta operates a graduated licensing system, as it helps reduce the risks faced by new drivers, especially when driving in a province with ice and snow. Once you have completed your apprenticeship and trial periods, you will be eligible to become a fully licensed driver. For all new drivers, a minimum of 3 years is required to complete both stages of Alberta's graduated driver's license system.
If you hold a learner's license (or equivalent) from a reciprocal country, you can apply for the GDL exemption to reduce the time you need as an Alberta apprentice driver and you may be eligible to take the Class 5 Basic Driving Exam. You will receive a renewal reminder by email or text message for operator licenses four to six weeks before the license expires. In some cases, a driver may have more than one class; for example, a taxi driver who has a motorcycle will need a class 4, 6 driver's license.
