Mandatory driving lessons

The new rules apply to people who do not have and have never had a class-5 learner's licence or probationary licence.

The length of time people must now keep their passenger vehicle learner's licence (class 5) has risen from 8 months to 12 months for everyone.

The reason for this change is to make sure new drivers gain more driving experience with the presence and assistance of a coach.

24-month probationary licence mandatory for everyone

Because of their lack of experience, all new drivers are at greater risk of getting involved in a collision in their first years of driving, no matter how old they are. Therefore the probationary licence is now mandatory and in effect for 24 months for all new drivers.

5 steps to a class 5 driver's licence:

1. Register for a driving course
2. Get a learner's licence
3. Pass the theoretical exam
4. Pass the practical exam
5. Get a probationary licence

Demerit point and alcohol

The learner's and probationary licences are subject to stricter regulations concerning demerit points and alcohol-impaired driving.

• Holders of a learner's or probationary licence have a limit of 4 demerit points. Once this limit is passed, the licence is suspended for 3 months.
  
• Holders of a learner's or probationary licence are considered to have committed an offence if they drive after consuming even a single drop of alcohol. For this breach of the Highway Safety Code, 4 demerit points are entered in the driver's record, and the licence is automatically suspended for 3 months. The Code also provides for a fine of $300 plus costs.

A driver found guilty of driving with a blood alcohol level of 80 mg/100 ml (0.08%) or more is also guilty of breaching the Criminal Code.

To find out more

Getting a First Licence to Drive - SAAQ

Teen zone - Find out - Drinking, drugs and driving

Teen zone - Find out - Tuning / Modified vehicles

Teen zone - Find out - Speeding

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