What a Class 7 license lets you drive
An Alberta Class 7 license is a learner's permit that lets you drive a car, van, or light truck with a licensed supervisor in the vehicle. You cannot drive alone. The supervisor must be at least 18 years old, hold a valid Alberta driver's license, and sit in the front passenger seat beside you.
You can use a Class 7 to practice before taking your Class 5 road test. Most people hold a Class 7 for at least 12 months before they are ready to test for a full license. During this time, you build the hours and experience the road test examiners expect to see.
A Class 7 does not let you drive commercial vehicles, tow trailers, or carry passengers for money. You also cannot drive a motorcycle or a bus. If you need to drive any of those, you will need a different class of license.
Key Takeaways
- A Class 7 is a learner's permit that requires a licensed supervisor in the front passenger seat at all times.
- You must be at least 14 years old to get a Class 7 in Alberta.
- You need to pass a written knowledge test and an eye exam before you receive your Class 7.
- Most people hold a Class 7 for 12 months or longer before they are ready to test for a Class 5 full license.
- Certain rules explore while you hold a Class 7, including restrictions on night driving and passenger limits in some cases.
Age requirements and when you can start
You must be at least 14 years old to get a Class 7 license in Alberta. There is no upper age limit — adults can also get a Class 7 if they are new to driving or moving to Alberta from another province or country.
If you are under 18, you will have additional rules to follow while you hold your Class 7. These rules are stricter than those for adults and are designed to reduce risk as you gain experience. If you are 18 or older when you get your Class 7, the adult rules explore instead.
Steps to get your Class 7
Getting a Class 7 involves three main steps: studying, testing, and paying the fee.
First, you study the Alberta Driver's Guide, which covers road signs, right-of-way rules, safe driving practices, and Alberta traffic laws. You can read it free from the Government of Alberta website or pick up a printed copy at a registry office. Many people also use online practice tests to prepare.
Second, you go to a registry office and take the written knowledge test. The test has 50 multiple-choice questions, and you need to answer at least 40 correctly to pass. You can retake the test if you do not pass the first time, but you will pay the test fee again.
Third, you pass an eye exam at the registry office on the same day. The examiner checks your vision and colour blindness. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you.
Once you pass both the knowledge test and the eye exam, you pay the Class 7 fee and receive your license. The fee varies depending on how long you want the license to be valid — typically one, two, or five years. Check the current fee at your local registry office or on the Government of Alberta website, as fees change.
Rules that explore while you hold a Class 7
The rules for Class 7 drivers under 18 are stricter than for adults. If you are under 18, you cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m., and you can carry only one passenger who is not a family member. You also cannot use a cell phone while driving, even hands-free, except in an emergency.
If you are 18 or older when you get your Class 7, you follow the adult rules instead. You can drive at any time of day, and there are no passenger restrictions. However, you still cannot drive alone — a licensed supervisor must always be in the front passenger seat.
All Class 7 drivers must follow Alberta traffic laws, including speed limits and seat belt rules. You must also display your Class 7 license plate or decal on your vehicle so other drivers know you are a learner.
How long you can hold a Class 7
There is no legal minimum time you must hold a Class 7 before you test for a Class 5. However, Alberta recommends at least 12 months of supervised driving experience. This gives you time to practice in different weather, traffic, and road conditions.
Your Class 7 license itself is valid for the period you chose when you got it — usually one, two, or five years. If your license expires before you pass your Class 5 road test, you will need to renew it at a registry office and pay the renewal fee.
What happens after you pass your Class 5 road test
Once you pass your Class 5 road test, your Class 7 is no longer valid. You receive a Class 5 license, which lets you drive alone without a supervisor. The Class 5 is Alberta's full driver's license for cars and light trucks.
If you do not pass the road test on your first try, you keep your Class 7 and can continue to practice. You can retake the road test after a waiting period, which varies depending on how many times you have already taken it. Each road test attempt has a fee.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive a motorcycle with a Class 7?
No. A Class 7 only covers cars, vans, and light trucks. To ride a motorcycle, you need a Class 6 license. You must pass a separate knowledge test and a motorcycle road test to get a Class 6.
What if my supervisor is not in the front passenger seat?
Driving without a supervisor in the front passenger seat while you hold a Class 7 is against the law. You can be ticketed and fined. Your license could also be suspended. Always make sure your supervisor is seated beside you before you start driving.
Do I need to take a road test to get a Class 7?
No. You only need to pass the written knowledge test and the eye exam. The road test comes later, when you are ready to test for your Class 5 full license.
Can I renew my Class 7 online?
No. You must go to a registry office in person to renew your Class 7. Bring your current license, proof of identity, and proof of Alberta residency. You will also pay the renewal fee at that time.
What documents do I need to bring to get my Class 7?
You need proof of identity (such as a birth certificate or passport), proof of Alberta residency (such as a utility bill or lease), and your Social Insurance Number. Check with your local registry office for the full list, as requirements can vary slightly.