Changes to driver licensing system

Class 1 – Driver licence changes

Starting February 1, 2023:

• Drivers have the option to complete the Class 1 road test in an automatic transmission truck.
• Allowing drivers to take the Class 1 road test in an automatic transmission truck ensures drivers are tested in the type of truck they will be driving. This will continue to ensure safe, skilled drivers work behind the wheel.
• If a driver completes and passes the Class 1 road test in an automatic transmission truck, a condition code will be applied to their licence stating the driver is only able to operate commercial trucks with an automatic transmission.
• The condition code can be removed by taking a second Class 1 condensed road test in a commercial truck with a manual transmission.
• This change will not impact Mandatory Entry Level Training (MELT).
• Class 1 training can be taken in a manual or automatic transmission truck.
• Government driver examiners will continue to conduct Class 1 road tests.

Class 4 – Driver licence changes

Starting February 1, 2023:

• Drivers no longer required a road test to obtain a Class 4 driver’s licence.
• The Class 4 knowledge test is enhanced to include elements on passenger management and safety, as well as working with vulnerable populations.
• The Commercial Driver’s Guide has been updated. All information within the new Commercial Driver’s Guide may be on the knowledge test.
• Class 4 drivers must still meet vision requirements and provide a driver medical report.
• Drivers who passed the Class 4 knowledge and road tests within 12 months of the updated program implementation, but who have not applied to have the Class 4 driver’s licence card issued, will have their test results honoured.
• Drivers who passed the Class 4 knowledge test but who did not pass the Class 4 road test prior to February 1, 2023, will be required to pass the new Class 4 enhanced knowledge test at their own expense.
• Driver examiners will no longer be authorized to conduct Class 4 road tests starting February 1, 2023.

Class 5 and 6 - GDL changes

Starting in Spring, 2023 the Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) program includes the following improvements:

• Removing the Class 5 and Class 6 advanced road tests.
• Enhancing the Class 5 and Class 6 road tests to be 15 minutes longer and include elements from the advanced road test.
• Maintaining the current 24-month probation period and allowing drivers to reduce their probation period by up to 6 months by completing an approved driver training course, providing you meet all other eligibility requirements.
• Requiring GDL drivers to demonstrate safe driving practices by having no suspensions or traffic violations within their last 12 months of probation, including zero tolerance for any alcohol and/or drug consumption.
• If a violation or suspension happens during the last 12 months, the final 12 months of the probation period resets.
• All other existing requirements of the GDL program will remain the same.
• Drivers who are over the age of 18, have held their GDL licence for two or more years and who have not had any violations or suspensions within the last 12 consecutive months will be eligible to automatically exit the GDL program.
• Existing GDL drivers will have their records evaluated on the day of transition to the updated program to determine if they will automatically exit GDL or if they will continue in the updated program.
  • These drivers will be sent a letter confirming their exit from the GDL program.
  • These drivers can continue to use their existing driver’s licence until the time it expires and must be renewed.
  • A driver that chooses to have an updated non-GDL driver’s licence card issued will be subject to a service fee.

Contact

Questions about these licensing changes can be directed to [email protected].