Here in Alberta they have some new laws in place for driving, so I may not know them 100%. But basically at 14 a person is able to take their written Learner's Test (Operator Class 7) which allows them to drive a vehicle under the supervision of an adult driver. (A Class 7 is required before Driver's Ed is completed) Once they turn 16, they are eligible to take their Driver's Road Test (Operator Class 5 GDL - Graduated Drivers License) which allows them to drive a vehicle without the supervision of an adult, however there are restrictions. (ie. Maximum of 4 people in the vehicle, can't drive between the hours of 00:00 and 05:00, etc.). At the end of a one year period, they can go back and take another road test to get their proper Class 5 Driver's license.
Driver's Ed is available but not mandatory. However, there are benefits to completing the course including discounted car insurance (substantial discounts, as well. A friend of mine saved nearly $700/year). Also, once the driver has turned 25 (or a specified amount of time if License is obtained after a certain age) insurance rates drop again.
I think it's a fairly good system we have in place. |