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Rite of passage – Randy Youngman, Regional Traffic Safety Consultant

Obtaining yourdriver’slicense for the first time is generally viewed as a rite of passage from childhood into the adult world. A driver’s license is a symbol of freedom and independence. However, with that freedom comes great responsibility. Operating a motor vehicle not only gives you great freedom but it is also freedom that can turn deadly in an instant!
Over the course of a year too many young drivers (between 14 – 24 years of age) are killed and injured each year. Although young drivers represent only a small percentage of the province’s licensed drivers, they tend to have the highest casualty collision rates of any age group.
In Alberta, we have a Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) system that strives to improve road safety by extending the learning stage for new drivers, regardless of age. New drivers gain more experience and improve their skills under low-risk conditions before graduating to more demanding driving conditions. To become fully licensed, new drivers must show responsible driving behaviors, smooth vehicle handling skills and pass an advanced road test.
The first stage in obtaining a driver’s license is the “Learners stage.” To obtain a Learner’s License (Class 7) you must be a minimum 14 years of age or older and must pass a vision test and a knowledge test on the rules of the road.The “Driver’s Guide to Operation, Safety and Licensing” is available on line for test preparation. There are also other Learner’s Prep kits available at Registries that will help you prepare for the testing procedures.If you are under 18 years old you will also require parental consent. You must hold the Learner’s license (Class 7) for a minimum 1 year. During this period of time you must always be accompanied by a fullylicensed (non-GDL probationary) driver who is 18 years of age or older and who is seated next to the driver. Learners license holders have numerous other rules and regulations that are unique to their class of license.
To become a Probationary Driver (Class 5-GDL) you must be at least 16 years of age and have held a Class 7 license for at least one year. Getting your Class 5 – GDL will involve a road test designed to test your skills in the real world. You will be required to hold your class 5 – GDL for a minimum 2 years. As a probationary driver there are many rules and conditions that must be followed one of which is that you cannot act as an accompanying driver to a learner.
To become a fully licensed Class 5 driver you will have to have been suspension free for the last year of the 2-year Probationary stage. You will be required to pass an advanced road test. It is important to note that during your entire GDL experience there is a zero tolerance on the use of alcohol.
Formore information on Alberta’s GDL Program please go to www.transportation.alberta.ca or www.saferoads .com. You can also contact your local vehicle registry for expanded information on obtaining your driver’s license.

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