In Alberta, Canada, new drivers begin their journey through the Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) program. The program is designed to ensure that new drivers gain experience and demonstrate responsibility before earning full driving privileges. Many learners wonder: Can a Class 7 driver drive on highways in Alberta?
The short answer is: Yes, Class 7 drivers can drive on highways in Alberta, but there are strict conditions attached. This blog explains those rules in detail, provides a handy table of restrictions, and offers advice for new drivers navigating Alberta’s roadways.
In Alberta, a Class 7 license is also known as a learner’s license. It’s the first step in the province’s GDL program. This license allows new drivers to practice driving under supervision before they can take the road test to graduate to a Class 5 GDL license.
Yes, but with supervision and under specific conditions.
Highways in Alberta include urban expressways, divided highways, and rural highways. These roads can involve higher speeds and heavier traffic, so it’s important that Class 7 drivers understand and follow the rules to stay safe.
| Rule | Details |
|---|---|
| Supervision Required | A fully licensed driver (Class 5 non-GDL or higher) must be seated in the front passenger seat at all times. |
| Highway Access | Class 7 drivers can drive on all highways in Alberta as long as they are accompanied by a qualified supervisor. |
| Zero Alcohol Tolerance | Class 7 drivers must maintain a 0.00% BAC (blood alcohol concentration) while driving. |
| No Driving Between Midnight and 5 a.m. | Driving is prohibited during these hours unless accompanied by a supervisor and the trip is essential (work, emergency). |
| One Passenger Rule (if under 18) | Only one passenger under 18 who is not a family member is allowed unless supervised by a fully licensed driver. |
| No Cell Phones | Even hands-free devices are not allowed for Class 7 drivers. |
Driving on a highway involves:
These elements can overwhelm inexperienced drivers. The supervising driver plays a crucial role in helping Class 7 drivers develop safe driving habits in high-pressure situations.
Alberta’s major highways where Class 7 drivers can practice (with supervision) include:
These highways are high-speed zones, so learners should first build experience on local or lower-speed roads before venturing onto them.
Breaking the rules as a Class 7 driver can result in serious consequences, including:
| Violation | Potential Consequence |
|---|---|
| Driving without supervision | License suspension or delay in advancing to Class 5 |
| Driving after midnight | Fines, demerit points |
| Using a phone | Fines ($300+) and 3 demerit points |
| Alcohol or drug use | Immediate license suspension and potential criminal charges |
These penalties not only delay your progress in the GDL program but can also lead to higher insurance premiums.
After holding a Class 7 license for at least 12 months, a learner can take the Class 5 GDL road test. Upon passing:
Although Class 7 drivers may feel nervous about driving on Alberta’s highways, supervised experience is crucial for developing long-term driving skills. Familiarity with highway speeds, lane changes, and traffic patterns prepares new drivers for their Class 5 test and helps reduce future anxiety.
Start slow—try:
| Aspect | Allowed? | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Driving on highways | ✅ Yes | Must be supervised by a Class 5 (non-GDL) or higher |
| Driving alone | ❌ No | Must always be accompanied |
| Driving at night | ❌ No | Between 12 a.m. and 5 a.m. prohibited |
| Use of phones | ❌ No | Hands-free or handheld—both are banned |
| Alcohol tolerance | ❌ 0% | Any presence of alcohol is prohibited |
| Number of passengers | Limited | Especially if under 18 |
Driving on highways as a Class 7 learner in Alberta is permitted, but it comes with strict guidelines. It’s all part of the province’s mission to develop safe, capable drivers through gradual exposure. Use this opportunity to gain real-world experience—safely, legally, and with confidence.
If you’re a new driver or a parent guiding a young learner, be sure to review Alberta’s GDL Program Guide and Driver’s Handbook regularly for updates.
