- Three stages: Class 7 Learner (14+) → Class 5-GDL Probationary (16+) → Full Class 5 (18+)
- A Learner needs a supervising driver in the front seat who holds a full (non-GDL) Class 5 and is 18+; Probationary drivers need no supervisor and can drive alone
- Learners face a midnight–5am curfew with no exceptions, even with a supervisor present; Probationary drivers have no curfew
- Zero alcohol tolerance applies throughout both GDL stages. Never drive impaired, whatever your licence class.
- Both GDL stages share the same demerit thresholds: a warning letter at 4–7 points and automatic suspension at 8+ (within 2 years); a full licence is 8–14 for a warning and 15+ for suspension
- Neither Learners nor Probationary drivers may supervise another learner or upgrade to a commercial licence (Class 1/2/3/4); passengers can't exceed the number of seatbelts
- The Learner stage lasts at least 1 year (extended by any suspension); Probationary lasts at least 2 years (reducible to 1.5 with an approved training course)
- Advancing to a full Class 5 also requires being suspension- and demerit-free for the 12 months right before you apply — on top of, not instead of, the age and duration minimums
- Learning to ride a motorcycle under Class 7 requires being 16+, with a supervisor holding a Class 6 (non-GDL) licence
Three stages, in sequence — zero alcohol tolerance is the one thing that stays constant across both GDL stages.
Knowledge points and examples
GDL eligibility, learner supervision, progression, testing, and novice conditions
Can a parent withdraw previously given parental consent for a licence held by someone under 18?
A parent can withdraw consent as long as the person is still under 18 and not self-supporting or married.
Minimum time as a probationary Class 5-GDL driver:
A probationary Class 5-GDL driver must serve a minimum of 2 years.
Licence classes, restrictions, identity records, renewals, replacement, and residency administration
What must an applicant prove with acceptable documents when applying for an Alberta driver's licence?
Applicants must provide acceptable original documents proving identity, Alberta residency, and lawful entitlement to be in and remain in Canada. The required number and combination depend on the documents presented.
A Class 1 licence permits its holder to operate:
Class 1 is the broadest commercial licence class, but it does not itself authorize unsupervised Class 6 motorcycle operation.
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