How To Get a Motorcycle Licence in Alberta

alberta motorcycle licenseTo get a alberta motorcycle license, you must be 16 or older. Requirements include a written test for your learner’s permit and a road test for your final Class 6 licence. In between the written and road test, a driver with a learner’s license can ride with a designated, licenced chaperone. The Government of Alberta Ministry for Transportation also recommends that you take a certified motorcycle driving course.

 

The Learner’s Licence
The standard Class 7 motorcycle learner’s licence can be obtained by fully-licenced Alberta car drivers. Licenced, probationary drivers, who are part of the Graduated Driver’s Licence program, can obtain a Class 7 GDL licence. New drivers, who obtain a motorcycle permit as their first licence, will also have a Class 7 GDL licence. In all cases, you must have a fully licenced driver who can oversee your probationary driving period. The licenced driver must hold a Class 6 motorcycle permit.

Application Process
To apply for this licence, you should go to the Alberta Registry Office with your designated driving chaperone. Either you or, if you are a minor, your parents must show proof of insurance. You will pay a fee and be allowed to take the motorcycle written exam. The fee minimum is $5.

Written Test
Before taking the test, it helps to study the Driver’s Guide to Operation, Safety and Licensing. This is often called the Alberta Driver’s Handbook. The test will cover traffic control signs and signals and important rules of the road. It will also cover safe-driving practices and motorcycle licensing requirements. There are 30 multiple choices questions.

Learner’s Licence Restrictions
Once you obtain a learner’s licence, there are several strict requirements, including a curfew. The law requires a zero blood-alcohol concentration. This applies even if the learner is simply seated on a stationary motorcycle.You should be wary of violating traffic laws because a learner’s licence will be revoked for eight demerit points. Also, the designated chaperone must be with you at all times. The chaperone must either ride with you or ride alongside on another motorcycle.

Learner’s Curfew
The driver is essentially restricted from riding at night, but night-time hours can vary widely, depending on the time of year. The curfew begins one hour after sunset or midnight, whichever is earlier. The ending time is one hour before sunrise or 5 a.m., whichever is later.

Road Test Enrollment
Most road tests start and end at the Registry office, although those who have taken a motorcycle course may be able to take the road test there. Either way, to schedule a road test, you will need to contact the Alberta Registry Office in advance. The minimum fee is $5, but the actual cost can be much higher because the test is conducted by independent examiners. This is generally more intensive than a car driving test, and it usually takes about 45 minutes. The driver must provide the motorcycle, which must be registered and insured. The test is conducted in real traffic situations, since it is designed to assess real life skills. The driver will wear a two-way radio that allows simple interaction with the examiner.

Road Test Requirements
First, the examiner will conduct a fitness check for the motorcycle and equipment. You should be sure the motorcycle is in good condition because examiners can declare the vehicle unfit and call off the road test. You should also be ready to demonstrate an intimate knowledge of the vehicle. While driving, the examiner will be evaluating your ability to control the motorcycle. This includes factors such as speed control, road position, and personal balance. You will be evaluated on safety including proper signalling and the ability to safely execute turns. Of course, you must also demonstrate that you follow the legal rules of the road. If you don’t pass, the examiner’s written check list will help you do better the next time.

Final Step to the Class 6 Licence
You should be aware that passing the road test doesn’t automatically upgrade your licence. You must return to the Alberta Registry Office and present the examiner’s written evaluation with your passing score. You will pay a fee, usually $16, and your licence will be updated from Class 7 to Class 6 at that time. For those in the Graduated Driving License program, the Class 6 license will be probationary for two years. During this time, the zero blood-alcohol requirement remains in effect.

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