Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Your Class 7 and Class 5 Licenses in Alberta (2025)

Thinking about getting your driver's license in Alberta? Whether you're a brand-new driver or recently relocated to the province, navigating the process can feel overwhelming at first. Alberta follows a Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) program, which includes two major milestones: the Class 7 Learner's License and the Class 5 Driver's License (both probationary and full).

In this step-by-step guide, we'll break down everything you need to know to go from learner to fully licensed driver in Alberta—confidently and correctly in 2025.

Step 1: Get Your Class 7 Learner's License

What is a Class 7 License?

A Class 7 license is the same as a G1 license used in most provinces.It allows you to begin learning how to drive with a supervising driver. It's the first step toward becoming a fully licensed driver in Alberta.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Must be at least 14 years old

• Must pass a vision test

• Must pass a written knowledge test on Alberta traffic laws and signs

• Provide valid identification (proof of age, identity, and Alberta residency)

How to Prepare for the Knowledge Test:

• Study the Alberta Driver's Guide

• Take free online practice tests

• Visit any Alberta Registry Agent to take the test

"Check out Alberta Driver's Guide"

Class 7 Restrictions:

• Zero alcohol tolerance

• Must drive with a fully licensed driver (Class 5 non-GDL or higher) who is 18+

• No driving between midnight and 5 a.m.

• Cannot supervise other learners

• 8 demerit point limit

Step 2: Practice Driving (Minimum 12 Months)

After obtaining your Class 7, you must practice for a minimum of 12 months before you can take the road test for a Class 5 license.

What to Practice:

• Safe turning, lane changes, merging

• Parking (parallel, hill, and reverse)

• Navigating intersections and roundabouts

• Driving in residential, urban, and highway settings

Tip: Enroll in a licensed driver training course. It improves your skills and can lower insurance premiums.

Step 3: Take the Class 5 GDL Road Test

Once you've held your Class 7 for at least one year, you're eligible to book your Class 5 GDL road test.

Requirements:

• Be 16 years or older

• Have had your Class 7 license for 12 months or more

• Pass the basic road test

Where to Book:

Visit MyAlberta eServices or a local registry office.

What's Tested:

• Traffic observation and awareness

• Speed control and decision-making

• Parking techniques and vehicle handling

• Proper signaling and lane usage

Note: One of the top reasons road tests get canceled on the spot is unsafe, uninsured, or non-compliant vehicles. Show up with a fully insured, test-approved rental from Elan—so you can focus on passing, not paperwork.

Step 4: Hold Your Class 5 GDL License for 2 Years

Once you pass the road test, you'll receive your Class 5 GDL (Graduated Driver's License).

Restrictions Include:

• Zero alcohol/drug tolerance

• Cannot supervise another learner

• 8 demerit point limit

• Must hold for 24 months before upgrading

Step 5: Upgrade to Full Class 5 License (Non-GDL)

After 2 years with no suspensions or violations, you're eligible to upgrade to a full

Class 5 license.

Benefits of Class 5 (Non-GDL):

• No more GDL restrictions

• Ability to supervise other learners

• Lower insurance rates

• More driving freedom

How to Upgrade:

Visit an Alberta registry office to apply. No additional test is required if your driving record is clean.

Final Thoughts

Earning your Class 7 and Class 5 licenses in Alberta is completely doable with the right steps and smart preparation. By studying the rules, practicing consistently, and using a reliable vehicle, you'll not only meet the requirements—you'll drive away with confidence. Stay focused, avoid common pitfalls, and set yourself up for success from day one.

One of the biggest reasons people fail or miss their road test? Car issues. That's why more drivers in Alberta are choosing Elan.

Why Elan?

✅ Fully insured
✅ Clean, road-test-ready vehicles
✅ Available across Alberta
✅ No paperwork, no risk of test cancellation

Book your Elan vehicle now and show up ready to pass with confidence.