Alberta Basic Driver's Licence Assessment

• The Alberta Basic Licence Driver's Assessment evaluates a driver's ability to safely operate a vehicle according to Alberta Transportation standards.
• It assesses various driving skills and adherence to traffic laws to ensure road safety.

Assessment Overview

• The assessment begins with pre-drive checks and in-vehicle observation.
• The assessor evaluates the driver's ability to control the vehicle in various traffic conditions.
• Drivers are expected to demonstrate safe habits throughout the assessment.
• Drivers must demonstrate habits such as mirror checks, signaling, and appropriate speed maintenance.

Pre-Drive Check

• The driver needs to demonstrate knowledge of the vehicle's controls and safety features.
• Adjusting the seat, mirrors, and ensuring all occupants are wearing seatbelts are crucial.

Starting and Stopping

• Drivers must demonstrate smooth and controlled starting and stopping.
• They should be able to start the vehicle properly and move off smoothly.
• Stopping should be done in a controlled manner, without abruptness or over-steering.

Vehicle Control

• Steering control must be smooth, with correct hand positioning.
• Drivers should stay in the center of the lane.
• Maintaining consistent speed and appropriate spacing is monitored closely.

Speed Management

• Drivers must maintain the posted speed limit or adjust for adverse conditions.
• Speed maintenance should be consistent, without unnecessary acceleration or deceleration.

Intersections

• Proper intersection procedures include observation, signaling, and gap selection.
• Drivers should scan for pedestrians, cyclists, and other vehicles.
• Signaling intentions well in advance of turns or lane changes is essential.
• Safe gap selection ensures the driver does not impede other traffic.

Turns

• Turns should be initiated from the correct lane, with proper signaling.
• Drivers should enter the turn smoothly and maintain control throughout.
• Turns should be completed in the correct lane.

Lane Changes

• Lane changes must be executed safely, with mirror checks, signaling, and blind spot checks.
• Drivers should only change lanes when it is safe to do so.
• They should integrate smoothly into the new lane.

Merging

• Merging onto highways or roadways requires speed matching and gap selection.
• Drivers need to accelerate to match the speed of traffic flow.
• They should merge smoothly without causing other vehicles to brake or swerve.

Parking

• Drivers may be asked to perform various parking maneuvers, including parallel parking and stall parking.
• These maneuvers test the driver's ability to control the vehicle in confined spaces.
• Drivers must demonstrate precision and accuracy in their parking.

Backing Up

• Backing up requires careful observation and slow speed.
• Drivers should check for obstacles, pedestrians, and other vehicles before backing up.
• The driver should use mirrors and cameras effectively and turn to look in the direction of travel.

Hazard Perception

• Drivers are assessed on their ability to recognize and respond to potential hazards.
• This includes anticipating the actions of other drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists.
• Drivers should be able to adjust their driving based on road conditions, weather, and traffic.

Defensive Driving

• Maintaining a safe following distance is a key component of defensive driving.
• Drivers must scan the road ahead for potential hazards.
• Being aware of the surroundings and anticipating potential problems are essential.

Observational Skills

• Mirror checks are crucial for maintaining awareness of surrounding traffic.
• Drivers must use their mirrors frequently to monitor vehicles approaching from behind or in adjacent lanes.
• Blind spot checks are necessary before changing lanes or merging.

Signaling

• Signaling intentions clearly and in advance is critical for communication.
• Signals should be used before turning, changing lanes, or pulling away from a curb.
• Signals should be canceled after completing the maneuver.

General Safety Habits

• Maintaining a safe following distance is crucial for preventing collisions.
• Drivers must adjust their following distance based on speed, road conditions, and weather.
• Avoiding distractions, such as cell phones, is essential for safe driving.

Assessment Scoring

• The assessment is scored based on a point system, where errors are recorded.
• Accumulating too many points may result in failure.
• Common errors include failing to signal, speeding, improper lane changes, and poor observation.

Pass/Fail Criteria

• To pass the assessment, drivers must demonstrate competence in all areas.
• They must not accumulate too many demerit points for errors.
• Drivers who exhibit unsafe behavior or demonstrate a lack of skill may fail.

Re-assessment

• Drivers who fail the assessment may be allowed to re-attempt it after additional practice.
• It's recommended to address the areas in which the driver was deficient.
• Additional training or practice with a qualified instructor is often advised.

Vehicle Requirements

• The vehicle used for the assessment must be in safe operating condition.
• It must have valid registration and insurance.
• The vehicle must meet all safety requirements, including working lights, brakes, and tires.

Documentation

• Drivers must bring all required documentation to the assessment.
• This includes a valid learner's permit or driver's license.
• Proof of vehicle insurance and registration may also be required.

Weather Conditions

• The assessment may be affected by adverse weather conditions.
• It may be postponed or modified due to rain, snow, or ice.
• The assessor will determine whether it is safe to conduct the assessment.

Examiner Instructions

• Follow the examiner's instructions carefully during the assessment.
• They will provide clear directions and instructions.
• Any questions should be asked before starting the assessment.

Evaluation Criteria

• The assessment will include evaluations of speed selection, gap selection, and general safety habits.
• These criteria are essential for determining whether the driver is likely to operate a vehicle safely.

Common Mistakes

• Common mistakes during the assessment involve speed, observation, signaling, and vehicle control.
• Avoiding these mistakes can improve the chances of passing the test.

Tips for Success

• Practice driving in a variety of conditions before the assessment.
• Get comfortable with the vehicle you will be using for the test.
• Review traffic laws and regulations, and plan the route ahead of time.
• Stay calm and focused during the assessment.