How to Obtain Class 5 License in Alberta: A Full Guide 2025

Obtaining your Class 5 license in Alberta is a key milestone for any driver. This license allows you to operate most standard vehicles, including cars, vans, and small trucks. However, the process involves understanding Alberta’s specific rules, tests, and requirements. 

So here we are going to share every little detail about the class 5 license Alberta. Let’s delve more deeply: 

What is a Class 5 License in Alberta?

A Class 5  driver’s license is Alberta’s most common driving license. It is split into two levels:

• Class 5 GDL (Graduated Driver’s License)
• Full Class 5 License 

Initially, new drivers will hold a Class 5 GDL, with certain restrictions, including the number of passengers allowed and driving curfews.

You must pass the advanced road exam to obtain a complete Alberta Class 5 license. You must be suspension-free during the last year of your Class 5 GDL license. If you meet these requirements, you will be able to obtain a complete license.

If you include the learner and probationary periods, it will take you at least three years to obtain your full license. If you start Class 7 at the age of 14, it will take you four years.

To qualify, you must have the following:

• Be on probation for at least two years.
• Be suspension-free for the final twelve months of the two-year probationary period.
• Pass the advanced driving test.
• It will take at least three years to accomplish both.

Major Difference Between Class 5 GDL and Full Class 5 License 

Here is the major difference between class 5 GDL and full class 5 license: 

Class 5 GDL	Full Class 5 License
With a Class 5 GDL license, you cannot supervise other drivers.	Can supervise a learner class 7 driver.
8 Demerit points and leads to suspension of license.	Suspension occurs if more than 15 demerit points.
The probation period is a minimum 2 years.	Once you pass the advanced road test you will be no longer under a probationary period.

 

Eligibility Criteria for Class 5 GDL License 

To obtain a probationary Class 5 GDL, you must:

• To obtain a Class 5 learner’s license you must have at least one year of driving experience.
• You should be at least sixteen years old.
• If you are under 18, you must have written consent from your parent or guardian.
• You must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, have a valid work or student visa, and/or have an approved refugee claim from the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada.
• You should have proof that you reside in Alberta.
• Must have a valid ID.
• Must pass a vision test. 
• Have proof of residence in Canada.

Class 5 GDL Restrictions

As a probationary driver, you have several driving restrictions:

• When driving, you must keep your blood alcohol level at zero and have no narcotics in your system. There is no tolerance for breaking this rule, and the repercussions are significant.
• You are not able to upgrade to a commercial version.
• There is a higher risk of license suspension because you are only allowed 8 demerit points in Alberta, compared to 15 for a Class 5.
• Never allow more passengers than seatbelts in the vehicle.
• As a 5 GDL holder, you cannot supervise a Class 7 driver.

Requirements to Get a Full Class 5 License Alberta 

To get a full (non-GDL) Class 5 license in Alberta, you must:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Complete 24 months of probationary driving
  You can reduce this period by up to 6 months if you complete a Class 5 or Class 6 driver training program from a licensed driving school.
• Be suspension and demerit-free for the last 12 months
• Be a Canadian citizen, or permanent resident, or hold a valid work visa or approved refugee claim
• Provide proof that you live in Alberta and have valid identification
• Have proof of residence in Canada

If you’re moving to Alberta from another province or country, you may be eligible to exchange your license. Temporary residents (students, visitors, or temporary foreign workers) cannot apply for an Alberta driver’s license but may use their license from their home country or province.

Alberta Class 5 Test 

To obtain a class 5 license in Alberta you need to take the basic road test and advanced test, here are more details about them: 

Basic Road Test

To get a Class 5 GDL or full Class 5 license in Alberta, you must pass two road tests:

• The basic road test is the first step. You’ll take this test to move from your learner’s (Class 7) license to a probationary Class 5 GDL.
• During the test, you’ll be scored on your driving skills. Points are given for things like failing to check mirrors, not following the rules of the road or poor vehicle control.
• Breaking traffic laws or putting others in danger results in an automatic failure.
• The test will assess your ability to safely control the vehicle and follow road rules.

Key Details for the Basic Test:

• The test lasts about 30 minutes.
• Your vehicle must be in good working condition.
• You must have a valid license plate and car insurance in Alberta.
• The test will include tasks like vehicle handling, lane changes, controlling speed, handling intersections, parking, and safely interacting with other road users.

Alberta Class 5 Advanced Road Test

Once you’ve held your Class 5 GDL license for the required time, you’ll need to pass the advanced road test to get your full Class 5 license.

This test checks your advanced driving skills and ensures you’re capable of handling more challenging driving conditions. 

Key Details for the Advanced Test:

• The test takes around 60 minutes.
• It includes tasks like navigating busy intersections, driving on highways, merging, and parking.
• You’ll need your MVID number (Motor Vehicle Identification Number) to book the test.
• Any outstanding fines must be paid before booking.
• Passing this test allows you to exit the graduated licensing program and hold a full Class 5 license.

With both tests, it’s essential to practice and prepare to ensure you meet Alberta’s driving standards.

Class 5 License Alberta New Rules

After obtaining a class 5 license in Alberta you will still see some restrictions and rules like: 

• With a class 5 license, you cannot operate a motorcycle that needs to have a class 6 license. 
• As a fully licensed driver, you can have up to 15 demerits points in Alberta. 
• You cannot operate a vehicle that is used for commercial driving and transporting passengers. 
• A vehicle with air brakes is not allowed to operate. 

The Cost of Class 5 License Alberta 

To obtain a Class 5 license, you will need to pay a fee. The class 5 road test cost is $170 and can be booked online or in our office.

Tips to Pass the Class 5 License Alberta 

Here are some important tips that will help you to pass the class 5 license Alberta test. 

• Be Patient and Give Test When Ready: People and generally young drivers attempt to speed through the graduate driver licensing system to get it done. This has resulted in failing of the test. That’s why be patient until you are ready to take the test. 
• Book Your Test in Advance: The Alberta Class 5 road test booking system allows you to book in advance. Book a time when you will be able to practice beforehand.
• Alberta Class 5 Practice Test: At many websites free practice tests are available. Practice them to improve your knowledge for the test. 
• Prepare Knowledge Test: Strengthen your knowledge about the rules of the road and driving. In the knowledge test, there could be questions related to traffic signs, traffic rules, etc.  
• Book a session with a driving instructor: As your test date approaches, schedule a session or two with a driving instructor. They can put you through a simulated exam to assess your driving abilities. They can assist you to strengthen your weak points and better prepare for the test. You can also visit GClass Driving School as there we have experienced instructors to help you pass your test and obtain the license. 

Final Thoughts 

Getting your Class 5 license in Alberta is an important step in becoming a fully licensed driver. It takes time, preparation, and a solid understanding of Alberta’s driving rules. Whether you’re preparing for the basic road test or the advanced one, practice and patience are key.

Don’t rush the process, take your time, study the Alberta Class 5 knowledge test, and make sure you’re ready before booking your tests. Being well-prepared will help you pass on your first try and give you confidence on the road.

For extra help, G Class Drivers offers expert training to help you pass your test and get your license. Book a session with us today and be on your way to becoming a fully licensed driver!

FAQs

How much does a Class 5 road test cost in Alberta?

The cost for a Class 5 road test in Alberta typically ranges from $85 to $150 for the basic road test, and around $140 to $200 for the advanced test. Prices may vary depending on the registry you book with.

Can I drive Uber with a Class 5 license in Alberta?

No, you cannot drive for Uber with a Class 5 GDL license. To drive for Uber or any other ridesharing service, you need a full Class 5 (non-GDL) license, a Class 1, or Class 4 license in Alberta.

What is a full Class 5 license in Alberta?

A full Class 5 license in Alberta is a non-probationary driver’s license that allows you to drive most vehicles, such as cars, trucks, and vans, without the restrictions of the Graduated Driver’s License (GDL) system. It’s obtained after passing both the basic and advanced road tests.

What are the restrictions on a Class 5 license in Alberta?

With a Class 5 GDL license, you face restrictions such as:

• Zero blood alcohol content when driving.
• Only 8 demerit points before suspension (compared to 15 for a full license).
• You cannot supervise other drivers.
• You cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m.

Is Alberta getting rid of the Class 5 road test?

No, Alberta is not eliminating the Class 5 road test. The basic and advanced Class 5 road tests are still required to move from a learner’s license to a full Class 5 license under the Graduated Driver Licensing program.