All Nova Scotia drivers have to pass through and successfully complete the requirements of each stage in the Nova Scotia graduated drivers license system or NS GDL. A very similar NS graduated motorcycle license program is also in place. The Nova Scotia graduated drivers license program for basic passenger vehicles (cars & light trucks), ensures that all new drivers build strong driving skills and gradually develop the driving experience needed to safely operate on public roads.
At ICanDrive.ca, our team has researched and created a series of information charts, tips and process maps to help you easily navigate through everything required to get a Nova Scotia passenger vehicle driving license. Whether you're at the NS Learners License or NS Class 5N - Newly Licensed level, or going for your full Nova Scotia Class 5 License, our goal is to be with you every step of the way. We'd like to make getting your NS driver's license as stress-free as possible.
Choose a NS driver license level to get started
Your Nova Scotia Car License
The Nova Scotia Graduated Drivers License Simplified
Finding the right information for each step in the Nova Scotia graduated drivers license process can be time consuming and for some, a bit confusing. In order to make the process as simple as possible we've done the research for you and put all the requirements, learning, practice tests and other driving resources in one easy to access place. We want to make sure you get your Class 5 license easily and as quickly as possible.
Class 7 Learner License + Class 5N License --> Class 5R/Class 5 License
Getting Your Nova Scotia Class 7 Learner License
Knowing NS road signs and road rules is important for your Nova Scotia written test
In order to get a Class 7 Nova Scotia learners license, you must pass a written test. To pass the NS written test, you are going to need to learn all of the Nova Scotia road signs and road rules as presented in the Nova Scotia Driver's Handbook, as well as spend some time practicing for the test. A great way to practice, is with our series of free Nova Scotia learners test practice sets.
Written Test + Vision test --> Class 7 Learner License
You must be 16 to apply:
More on how to get your Class 7 license:
Study The Registry of Motor Vehicles - Nova Scotia Driver's Handbook
Pass the class 7 written test
Pass a vision test
Bring proof of age and ID documents
How to Get Your Class 5N License
Practical Driving Skills are the Key to Passing the Road Test
Depending on the type of driver training you enrolled in, you can start the process to get your NS Newly Licensed - Class 5N as early as 3 months after you get a Class 7 learner license. Practicing on-road driving skills while at the learner stage is key to being successful on the Nova Scotia road test. Don't forget, whenever driving, you must have all of the required documentation for your vehicle, as well as the car insurance Nova Scotia requires of all drivers.
practice driving (6 months) + road test --> Class 5N License
You must wait a min of 6 months:
Here's how to get your Class 5N License:
Prepay for your road test
Book a road test appointment
Practice, Practice, Practice driving
Pass the Nova Scotia road test
Your 5R (Restricted) License and Class 5 Full License
Remain Probation Free to Get Your Full Class 5 Licence Faster
The Class 5R (restricted) license stage is the final stage in the Nova Scotia graduated drivers license process and allows you the most freedom of driving within the Nova Scotia GDL program. You must remain at this stage for 24 months before you can get your full unrestricted Nova Scotia Class 5 license.
Step 1 - Class 5N Licence + safe driving (2 years) --> Class 5R licence
Step 2 - Class 5R License + safe driving (2 years) --> Class 5 License
You must drive safely with a 5N license for 24 months:
Here's how to get your Class 5 licence:
Practice safe driving for 24 months.
Complete a Driver Training Program
Looking for a Different Nova Scotia Driving Licence Type?
Choose the type of vehicle you need to get a Nova Scotia drivers license for
Nova Scotia manages their driver licensing through Nova Scotia Motor Vehicle Registry offices. These sites are well-equipped for driver testing, helping drivers understand what is expected of them and dealing with any registration related tasks Nova Scotia driver's license holders may have. Click the links below for information about various kinds of NS drivers license types.
Looking to Get Your Licence in a Different Area?
Choose the province or territory you are looking to get licensed in
Choose your province or territory of residence to allow us to direct you to the correct driver licensing resources. Depending on where you live, the process of getting a Canadian driver's license can differ.
