All About the GDL Alberta Class 5 License

You need to find a local Alberta registry agent and book your class 5 road test in advance. Keep in mind that time periods like March break and other holidays can be very busy, so book in advance to get your preferred date/time.

Regardless of the test, it's always a good idea to revisit the basics and brush up on your Alberta road signs and road rules knowledge.

Alberta Driver's Guide to Operation, Safety and Licensing Cars and Light Trucks

Your Alberta learners license was basically to give you an opportunity to practice your driving skills with a supervising driver. Use the minimum 12-month time period between getting your Alberta 7L and taking the GDL Alberta road test, to practice your driving skills such as:

• Knowing your vehicles controls (windshield wipers, signal lights etc)
• Starting your vehicle, parking and backing up
• Correctly driving in your lane and changing lanes
• Navigating through intersections and practicing proper turning techniques
• Obeying traffic lights and signs
• Knowing how to yield right of way
• Following posted speed limits
• Being aware of potential hazard situations and how to navigate/avoid them

Preparing For Your Alberta Road Test

Prior to beginning the Class 5 GDL Alberta road test, the examiner will assess and determine if the vehicle you have brought is capable of taking the road test. You might be asked to demonstrate different controls, for example, brake lights, turn signals etc. There are also some key items you should ensure you review before leaving home for the Alberta GDL test:

• A valid vehicle licence plate and Alberta car insurance
• Correctly working brake lights and signal lights
• Ensure you are driving with tires in good condition
• A working horn
• Ensure no obstructions on the windshield / wipers
• Working speedometer
• Working brakes / parking brake
• Functional seats/seat belts
• Properly working exhaust system / muffler
• Intact and clean mirrors
• Adequate gas in the tank to complete the test

The actual class 5 road test will take approximately 30 minutes, during which time the driving examiner will ask you to drive through a pre-set route, demonstrating specific driving skills as you go. Keep in mind, the examiner is not trying to trick you with any false directions, so stay calm and focused on the task.

Once the Alberta GDL test is finished, you will drive back to the examination location and the examiner will review the test with you indicating areas where you did well and where you need improvement. You will be advised on the spot if you've passed and given a copy of the driver examination checklist form + a test permit if you pass.

You must bring along your Class 7L licence to the Class 5 road test appointment

If you are under the age of 18, you must have written consent from your parent or guardian.

You must bring along ID confirming your name, date of birth and Alberta residency status.

Alberta Residency and ID Requirements

Bring along valid vehicle insurance and registration documentation for the vehicle you intend to use during the road test.

You are responsible for providing as much cancellation notice to the Alberta registry location as possible (preferably more than 48 hours notice) if for some reason you have to cancel your test appointment.

You need to provide the driving examiner with your test permit prior to the Class 5 road test beginning:

If you booked your test online, pickup your prepaid test permit from your Alberta registry office 30 minutes before your test begins
If you booked in person, you will receive your test permit when you check in for your road test

Step 1 of the road test is to go through a vehicle safety checklist, so make sure you review your vehicle against the checklist in advance of arriving at the test location.

• A valid vehicle licence plate and insurance
• Correctly working brake lights and signal lights
• Ensure your driving with tires in good condition
• A working horn
• Ensure no obstructions on the windshield / wipers
• Working speedometer
• Working brakes / park brake
• Functional seats/seat belts
• Properly working exhaust system / muffler
• Intact and clean mirrors
• Adequate gas in the tank to complete the test

Arriving 30 minutes before your test time is a good idea to get settled and relaxed before the test starts.

If you need glasses or contacts to drive, make sure you take them along.

Each test has a specific fee requirement, so make sure you are prepared to pay the fees prior to starting your actual test. The test fees are set by Alberta registry agents and can vary by location, so it's a good idea to contact your location registry agent to know what fees you will be expected to pay.

Find Your Alberta Registry Agent

Alberta Registry Agent Catalog Indicating Test Fee Maximums

If for some reason you fail the Class 5 road test, you can re-book another road test for another day.

Once your successfully pass the Class 5 road test, you will be able to purchase your Class 5 GDL licence card from your Alberta registry agent. You will initially be given a temporary licence that is valid for 30 days while your actual licence will arrive in the mail.

You can extend the expiry of your licence up to 5 years.

You can begin the process to get your Class 5 full privilege licence after holding a Class 5 GDL licence for a minimum of 2 years probation free. For more information on how to do that, please see our article: Alberta Class 5 GDL Restrictions & Requirements.

You must maintain a blood alcohol level of zero at all times

Carry only as many passengers as there are working seat belts.

Unlike a full Class 5 licence, a Class 5 GDL licence will be automatically suspended at 8 demerit points.

A Class 5 GDL Alberta driver cannot serve as an accompanying driver to a learner.

At the GDL Alberta stage, you cannot upgrade to a commercial licence (Classes 1, 2, 3 or 4).