Changes coming to Alberta’s GDL program

Changes are coming to Alberta’s Graduated Driver License (GDL) program which will benefit new drivers.

Starting in the spring of 2023, new drivers and drivers already with a GDL license will not have to do a secondary road test to obtain a full driver’s license, which will save them around $150.

Instead, drivers will have to complete a two-year probationary period which will allow them to qualify for a Class 5 or Class 6 license.

The province adds within the last 12 months of the probation period, the GDL driver must have zero suspensions or traffic violations (including zero tolerance for any alcohol and/or drug consumption). If a driver receives one or more demerit points or is ticketed for any reason during the 12-month period, the probationary period will be extended by 12 months.

“Many Albertans have told us that the advanced test costs too much, is a roadblock to finding jobs and has created unnecessary red tape. That’s why we are eliminating the advanced road test for (Class 5) passenger vehicles and (Class 6) motorcycles as well as the additional Class 4 road test while maintaining strong safety standards for drivers,” said Prasad Panda, Minister of Transportation.

“Even by not taking it, they still have the same ability to drive with a Class 5 GDL, so they thought ‘why would I spend $150 to take another test?’ and they kept driving. And it wasn’t just a few Albertans.”

Many people online are excited for the change. One person tweeted: “Finally! My procrastination pays off! 16 years of not upgrading my GDL just made me $150 richer.”

Another driver says, “Why would I stress myself out for a test that costs [money] when I don’t drive at night or while under the influence.”

Panda says 15 minutes will be added to the basic road test to incorporate some more safety aspects, but a driving examiner that CityNews spoke with says that will result in learner drivers having to pay more money anyway.

“If it becomes 45 minutes long it’s going to be an increased cost, if it’s an hour long, there will be an increased cost for that test. And given that three quarters of my clients do the basic road test, the vast majority of people are paying more than before,” explained David Maxwell, a driving examiner.

Over the past five years, about 65 per cent of drivers did not take their advanced road test, and 99 per cent of motorcycle riders did not take the test.

“They aren’t taking the test because they don’t need it,” said Maxwell. “Most people take the test because they need it for work. Their employers won’t let them use their vehicle unless they are fully ensured with a full license. That’s why they aren’t taking it.”

The province also added road tests will no longer be mandatory to obtain a Class 4 driver’s licence.

A Class 4 licence is required to drive taxis, ride-share vehicles, limousines, small buses and ambulances.