To get your license in Alberta, you must go through a 3 stage process. This process is called the GDL (Graduated Drivers License) program.
Stage 1: Class 7 Learners License
Stage 2: Probationary GDL (Must be at least 16 years old), road test.
Stage 3: Non-probationary License (Actual License).
When can you get your drivers license in Alberta?
You can get your Alberta drivers license upon the completion of GDL (Graduated Drivers License) program.
You must complete all 3 stages. It will take at least 3 years to complete. 1 year for Class 7, and 2 years for probationary GDL.
Stage 1: Class 7 Learners
You have to be at least 14 years old and have parental/guardian consent (if under 18) to get your Class 7 learners. Then you can take a multiple choice knowledge test at your local registry office. If you pass the test, you can practise driving with a fully licensed driver in the passenger seat.
You have to hold a Class 7 for 12 months before going to step 2.
There are many restrictions on Class 7 driving, such as no driving between midnight and 5am.
Class 7 Learners are allowed to drive a mooed by themselves.
Stage 2: Probationary Class 5 GDL
You have to be at least 16 years old and have parental/guardian consent (if under 18). There is a 2 year requirement for this stage. There is no fast track.
This stage is almost like having an official license. Some of the Class 7 restrictions fall off for this stage. For example: You can drive any time around the clock, and you no longer need a fully licensed driver to be with you.
Stage 3: Non-Probationary Drivers License
This is your full and complete license. Restrictions that are specific to stage 1 and 2 no longer apply to you. You may also be a passenger supervisor to a new driver in stage 1.
In Summary
You can get a full drivers license with no restrictions after completed all 3 GDL stages, which includes a road test. There are no short cuts or fast tracks. There was a time in the past when you could get your learners then quickly get your full license. This system has changed to the 3 stages with a minimum time requirement. It will take at least 3 years.
For a teenager to get on the road and start driving without supervision, this can be done in about a year. Pass the knowledge test for the learners license, practise for 12 months, then pass a road test for the stage 2 probationary class 5 GDL.
