2 days Ago By Wolf Depner
New drivers will be able to hit the road faster in 2026 under proposed changes to the graduated licensing program. Drivers with a Class 7 novice licence and a clean driving record won’t need to take a second road test to get a Class 5 licence under legislation tabled Wednesday. Drivers moving toward a Class 5 license will instead now be subject to a new 12-month restriction period during which they must demonstrate safe driving behaviour.
Under the current system introduced in the late 1990s, would-be drivers 16 years and older must first pass a knowledge test and undergo vision screening to get their learner's license, also known as the L designation. They can take their first road test after at least a year of practice with a qualified supervisor. If they are successful, they secure a novice's license, also known as the N designation.
They can then apply for their full licence after having had their N designation for at least two years of safe driving on their own with no prohibitions. This final step also requires a second road test. More to come.
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