Alberta Drivers License - GDL 101

When Alberta drivers license is the topic, the discussion but naturally steers to the Graduated Driver's License or GDL. The GDL aims to complement the state's current Alberta driver's license program by providing a path for young driver's to obtain an Alberta drivers license. According to statistics, about 48,000 new drivers each year have shown to be a much higher collision risk. As such, the GDL was introduced to create an atmosphere of 'training'. That is, to create an opportunity for new, young, and inexperienced drivers to learn all about driving BEFORE they are subjected to demanding driving conditions.

The GDL is open to all new drivers regardless of their age and teenagers as young as 14 years of age can enter this Alberta drivers license program.

Alberta Drivers License - The Three Phases of the GDL

The GDL is available in three phases, namely the Learner's License, Probationary Drivers and the Full License phase.

To participate in phase one of this Alberta drivers license program, you must be at least 14 years old and must have passed vision and written exams regarding the rules of the road. For new drivers below 18 years of age, one must submit a certification from one's parent(s) or legal guardian.

Under phase 1 of this Alberta drivers license program, the GDL participant must hold the Learner's Licence for at least one year. He or she can also only drive under the supervision of a certified driving instructor, who is at least 18 years old and is seated beside him. The GDL driver can only drive from midnight till 5 am and a 'no more passengers than seat belts' rule is applied. And perhaps more importantly, all holder's of a Learner's License must at all times have a zero alcohol level.

To participate in phase two of this Alberta drivers license program, you must be at least 16 years old and must have passed the standard Alberta road test. Under the Probationary Drivers phase of this Alberta drivers license program, the 'no more passengers than seat belts' rule still applies. Further, you cannot be an accompanying driver to someone under the Learner's License phase and must at all times have a zero alcohol level. As a Probationary Driver, you cannot upgrade to a commercial licence and must stay in this phase for at least two years.

Now, to become a fully licensed driver (Class 5), two conditions apply. First, you must have been suspension free for the last year of your 2-year Probationary Drivers phase and myou must have passed the advanced Alberta road test.

Alberta Drivers License - Restrictions Imposed on GDL Drivers

Perhaps one of the most 'annoying' restrictions for GDL drivers is the 'midnight till 5 am' rule under the Learner's License phase of this Alberta driver's license program. However, there are statistics to back up this rule.

50% of fatal collisions involving new drivers occur at night
overall night conditions cause impaired vision and impaired driving
even if the GDL driver is 'alert', other drivers on the road are already tired and the GDL driver is not yet equipped with the necessary driving experience to appropriately prevent collisions

As for the 'no more passengers than seat belts' rule, this is really for the protection of the car occupants. Remember, you are a NEW driver and you have yet to acquire the skills, patience, and efficiency of long-time drivers. As such, there IS a high risk of accidents and the 'no more passengers than seat belts' rule simply aims to prevent fatalities.

Do you want to participate in a GDL program? Visit AlbertaRegistry.net; as an authorized registry agent in Alberta, AlbertaRegistry.net will help you take part in a GDL program.