Driver's Guide to Cars and Light Trucks PDF

Driver’s Guide to operation, safety and licensing cars and light trucks ed MAXIMUM CITY C ENTR E iv ch Ar...

Driver’s Guide to operation, safety and licensing cars and light trucks ed MAXIMUM CITY C ENTR E iv ch Ar STOP Ar ch iv ed Driver’s Guide to operation, safety and licensing cars and light trucks ed iv ch Ar Introduction: When you are in the driver’s seat, a whole Along with all the benefits that motor new world opens to you. For drivers of all vehicles provide, there are also costs. ages, getting a driver’s licence can be a Beyond the direct costs of building and rite of passage, providing opportunities for maintaining our roadways, there are employment, mobility and independence. environmental and human costs. Recent statistics on road safety in Alberta show Driving involves responsibility and risk. that in 2016 there were 133,124 collisions The following are the key skills you reported. In this year, 273 people were must develop to prepare yourself for this responsibility. Attitude: Develop an attitude of safe and responsible driving every time you drive. ed killed in those collisions and 12,465 were injured. Most collisions can be prevented. The Office of Traffic Safety recommend that you obtain training and education from a licensed driving school to iv enhance your knowledge and skill. Awareness: Driver education courses are available for the operation of passenger vehicles, Be aware of what is happening around ch commercial vehicles, and motorcycles. you as you drive, and always make responsible decisions about hazards If you require information about schools and problems. that provide driver education, or information about the testing process to Knowledge: obtain a driver’s licence: Ar Learn and understand traffic laws and refer to your local directory rules of the road. visit www.alberta.ca/driving-vehicles.aspx (under Driver Education) Skill: contact Alberta Transportation Call Enrol in driver education programs to Centre at 780–427–8230. You can learn more about operating a motor reach Alberta Government offices vehicle safely. toll-free from anywhere in the It takes education, training and practice province by first calling 310–0000 to develop this awareness, knowledge and skill. Your attitude shows in the decisions you make about being a responsible driver. Be prepared to be courteous with other road users. Always drive proactively. 2 Driver’s Guide to Operation, Safety and Licensing Guides available: Driver’s Guide Commercial Rider’s Guide to operation, safety and licensing cars and light trucks Driver’s Guide to operation, safety and licensing motorcycles, mopeds and power-assisted bicycles to operation, safety and licensing Geared to Go A Workbook for trucks, buses, emergency responders and taxis Coaching New Drivers MAXIMUM CITY CEN MAXIMUM TRE CITY CENTRE ed STOP BUS SCHOOL STOP TAXI 30 MAXIMUM The following guides provide information guides should be used when preparing about the safe operation of cars and for the knowledge test and when learning iv light trucks, commercial vehicles, to operate trucks, emergency response and motorcycles, and the licensing vehicles, taxis, buses as well as when of drivers and riders. These guides handling dangerous goods. provide information for all classes of ch driver’s licences in Alberta, and will help Rider’s Guide to Operation, Safety you obtain an Alberta driver’s licence. and Licensing Consider keeping the guides in your Motorcycles, Mopeds and Power- vehicle as a reference. Assisted Bicycles Ar Driver’s Guide to Operation, Safety This guide provides information on the and Licensing safe operation of motorcycles, mopeds and power-assisted bicycles. It is used Cars and Light Trucks with the Driver’s Guide to Operation, This guide provides information for Safety and Licensing. all drivers. Geared to Go: A Workbook Commercial Driver’s Guide to for Coaching New Drivers Operation, Safety and Licensing This guide assists coaches who are Trucks, Buses, Emergency Responders, providing supervision to new drivers and Taxis as they gain experience and skills. This guide provides information about driving commercial vehicles. It is used with the Driver’s Guide to Operation, Safety and Licensing. Both of these Introduction 3 The information in these guides explains For more driver and best practices for driving a vehicle, but vehicle information cannot cover all circumstances. You must Knowledge tests are conducted out of use judgment and a safety-first attitude to registry agent offices. Class 4 , 5, and 6 make decisions in real on-road situations. road tests are delivered by licensed driver These guides interpret the laws that examiners through Alberta registry agents govern the movement of vehicles and on behalf of the Government of Alberta people on Alberta roadways. They are guides only and have no legal authority. The laws that apply to driving a vehicle can be found in the Traffic Safety Act and its related regulations. These documents ed and can be scheduled through an Alberta registry agent. Class 1, 2, and 3 commercial road tests are conducted by Government of Alberta driver examiners and can be scheduled iv are available at www.qp.alberta.ca/Laws_ through an Alberta registry agent or online Online.cfm, and: through the Government of Alberta online scheduling system. ch Queen’s Printer Bookstore To find testing services, and information Suite 700, Park Plaza about driver licensing and 10611–98 Avenue vehicle registration: Edmonton, Alberta T5K 2P7 visit www.alberta.ca/drivers-road-test.aspx Tel: 780–427–4952 visit www.servicealberta.ca/1641.cfm Ar Fax: 780–452–0668 visit the Association of Alberta For toll free service anywhere in Alberta, Registries at www.e-registry.ca call 310–0000, then the number. refer to your local directory under License and Registry Services call 780–427–7013 (Service Alberta) 4 Driver’s Guide to Operation, Safety and Licensing Contents 1. Licensing Information 2. Traffic Control 10 Graduated driver licensing 22 Traffic control signals 11 Knowledge test 23 Pedestrian signals 12 Vision requirements and signs 12 Class 5 road tests 24 Lane reversal signals 13 Types of vehicles for 25 Sign shapes 14 15 licence class For hire, driver licence requirements Air brake endorsement (Q) ed 26 27 27 and colours Traffic regulatory signs Traffic direction signs Speed limit signs iv 28 Designated lane signs 15 Driver examiner 29 Permissive signs 15 Driver’s licence 29 Prohibitive signs ch 15 Applying for your Alberta 30 School zones driver’s licence and areas 16 Non-Alberta license for tourists 31 Playground zones and areas and visitors 32 Parking services for persons 16 New Alberta residents with disabilities Ar 17 Medical requirements 32 TTY capabilities 18 Condition codes 32 Warning signs and endorsements 36 Information and 19 Re-classing your licence guide signs 19 Replacing your Alberta 37 Other signs driver’s licence 37 Construction 20 Renewing your Alberta 38 Pavement markings driver’s licence 40 Shared-use lanes 20 Updating your Alberta driver’s licence 41 Other roadway markings 20 Registration and insurance 3. The Basics of Driving 5. Highways and Freeways 44 Pre-drive basics 70 Lane selection and position 46 Driving a vehicle with an in your lane automatic transmission 71 Passing 47 Driving a vehicle with a 72 Emergency manual (standard) transmission stopping lane 48 49 49 49 Steering Signalling Accelerating Stopping time and distance ed 73 6. Entering and exiting a major roadway Emergency Situations and Challenging Conditions iv 51 Reversing 78 Emergency braking 52 Parking 78 Loss of control 4. Intersections and Turns 80 Vehicle mechanical problems ch 58 Right-of-way 81 Challenging conditions 58 Intersections 84 Emergency supplies 59 Uncontrolled intersections 84 Animals 60 Keep intersections clear 84 Collisions Ar 61 Traffic circles and Roundabouts 85 Emergency response vehicles and tow trucks 63 Turning 85 Emergency vehicles 66 Turning lanes 86 Maintenance and 67 U-turns construction vehicles 6 Driver’s Guide to Operation, Safety and Licensing 7. Responsible Driving 9. Driving Within the Law 90 Proactive driving 108 Driver fitness 92 Securing passengers 109 Driving responsibly 94 Fuel efficiency and helping 112 Driving laws our environment 115 Driver’s licence suspensions 95 Traffic laws and disqualifications 8. 98 Sharing the Road Vulnerable road users 100 Commercial vehicles 101 Log hauling vehicles ed 118 SafeRoads Alberta 118 Registrar Reconsideration Process 10. Towing a Trailer iv 102 School buses 120 Registration and licence plate 103 Snowplows 120 Equipment 120 Towing a trailer ch 104 Railway crossings 106 Vehicles carrying passengers or dangerous goods 106 Light rail transit 106 Off-highway vehicles Ar 106 Funeral processions Introduction 7 NOTES ed iv ch Ar 8 Driver’s Guide to Operation, Safety and Licensing 1 iv ed Licensing ch Information Ar Graduated driver You are not permitted to have more passengers than seat belts. licensing You will be suspended if you accumulate Regardless of age, all new drivers are eight or more demerit points. part of the Graduated Driver Licensing You must have zero level of alcohol (GDL) program. This program ensures and drug when driving (or riding a new drivers get the support, skills and motorcycle). experience they need to handle the complex task of driving. GDL improves Stage 2: GDL Probationary road safety by creating a safe and (Class 5-GDL) controlled environment for all new drivers. To become a probationary driver you must: As a GDL driver, you will hold one of the  hold your class 7 driver’s licence for a following driver’s licence: year (this time will be extended if you Stage One: Class 7 receive a suspension of your driving (Learner’s Driver’s Licence) privileges) Stage Two: Class 5-GDL (Probationary Licence) The following information highlights the key features of the Learner (Stage One) and Probationary (Stage Two) phases of ed  be 16 years of age or older  pass the basic Alberta class 5 road test Probationary conditions: You must be a probationary driver for a iv the Graduated Driver Licensing program. minimum of two years. Stage 1: Learner (Class 7) You must have no more passengers than seat belts. To obtain a class 7 learner’s driver’s ch licence you must: You will be suspended if you accumulate 8 or more demerit points.  be 14 years of age or older You must have a zero alcohol level  pass a vision screening when driving. You are not able to re-class your licence Ar  pass a knowledge test on the rules of the road to a commercial driver’s licence (classes 1, 2, 3 or 4).  have parental consent if you are You cannot serve as an accompanying under 18 years of age driver to a learner.  have valid identification Stage 3: Full, non-GDL Driver’s Learner’s conditions: licence (Class 5) You must hold a learner’s driver’s To become a fully licensed driver you must: licence (class 7) for at least one year.  have been suspension free for the You must be accompanied by a fully last twelve months of the licensed (non-GDL probationary) driver probationary stage who is 18 years of age or older and is seated next to you.  pass the advanced road test You are not permitted to drive from It will take a minimum of three years midnight to 5 a.m. to complete both the learner’s and probationary stages of the program. 10 Driver’s Guide to Operation, Safety and Licensing Exiting the GDL program The Class 7 electronic driver knowledge Exiting the GDL program is not test is available in the following 25 mandatory. However, if you do exit from languages: GDL you will: Amharic move from a class 5-GDL to a full Arabic class 5 driver’s licence Chinese (Simplified) qualify to re-class to a class 1, 2, 3, Chinese (Traditional) or 4 driver’s licence Cree increase the number of demerits Dutch you are allowed English remove the zero alcohol and drug Farsi tolerance condition French be able to be an accompanying German driver to a learner Hindi To exit the GDL program you must:  be in the probationary stage for a minimum of two years  be suspension free for the last twelve months of the two-year ed Italian Korean Oromo Polish Portuguese iv probationary stage Punjabi  pass the advanced road test Russian Somali ch Knowledge test Spanish To obtain your learner’s driver’s licence, Tagalog you will need to pass a knowledge test. Thai You can take your knowledge test at Ukrainian Ar most Alberta Registry Agent offices. The test is based on questions taken from Urdu this guide. You will be asked about safe Vietnamese driving practices, driving laws and There is a fee for each knowledge test road signs. that you take, and you can take only one The test is 30 multiple choice questions test per day. and you must score a minimum of 25 correct responses out of 30 to pass the test. You will do the test on a computer. When you pass the knowledge test you must take the knowledge test permit you purchased to do the test to a registry agent to ensure your driver’s licence is updated. The knowledge test permit is not a driver’s licence. Chapter 1 Licensing Information 11 Vision requirements to operate your vehicle safely without supervision while interacting with other A vision assessment is required before road users. you are eligible to obtain an Alberta Driver’s Licence. If you do not meet the The vehicle for your road test must be in vision standards, you will be referred to acceptable working condition and must an optometrist or an ophthalmologist to have the following: have a Vision Referral form completed. a valid licence plate and insurance If you have corrective glasses or contact headlights, brake lights and signal lights lenses, bring them with you for your horn vision assessment. speedometer brakes/park brake Class 5 road tests unobstructed windshield/wipers Class 5 is the most commonly held tires are in good condition driver’s licence, allowing drivers to driver and passenger doors operate cars and other light vehicles. The basic road test Passing the basic road test allows GDL drivers to move from a class 7 (Learner) to a class 5-GDL driver’s licence. This ed vehicle seats/seat belts exhaust system/muffler mirrors enough fuel for a road test The test will include identifying and iv test determines whether a learner has operating your vehicle’s controls. developed the driving skills necessary This includes: like safe vehicle handling, judgment and handling the vehicle (steering, braking ch knowledge of the rules of the road and speed control) to become a class 5-GDL probationary driver. selecting the proper lane for turns observing and obeying speed zones When you pass the basic road test you must take the road test permit you determining right of way at intersections Ar purchased to do the test to a registry and while changing lanes agent to ensure your driver’s licence is demonstrating knowledge and skill at updated. The road test permit is not a intersections with and without sign and driver’s licence. signal controls During the probationary stage you interacting with other road users in a will have a minimum of two years to non-obstructive manner further develop the skills necessary to parking – perpendicular, uphill or take the advanced road test and exit the downhill parking, and parallel (drivers GDL program. over 65 are not required to complete a parallel park) This road test is approximately 30 minutes. This will include the driver For more information, please see examiners pre-test instructions and “Preparing for Your Road Test” on summary of your results. You will be Alberta Transportation’s website. required to demonstrate the ability 12 Driver’s Guide to Operation, Safety and Licensing The advanced road test Climbing over the curb while parking, The advanced road test determines or being unable to park legally in whether a probationary driver has gained three attempts. the necessary advanced driving skills and Failing to slow or observe adequately experience under challenging conditions at uncontrolled intersections to become a fully licensed driver. You (you must be prepared to yield will need to pass this test to exit the to drivers to your right). Graduated Licensing Program and be a When you pass a road test you must take full class 5 (non-GDL) driver. the road test permit you purchased to do This road test is approximately 60 the test to a registry agent to ensure your minutes, including your driver examiner’s driver’s licence is updated. The road test pre-test instructions and summary of your permit is not a driver’s licence. results. The advanced road test will also include: Types of vehicles for a variety of intersection types, licence class merging on the highway, with acceleration and deceleration lanes high volume traffic areas ed including uncontrolled ‘T’ intersections high speed roadways of 80 to 100 km/hr Class 7 (GDL) A person 14 years of age or older may apply for a Learners Driver’s Licence. iv A parent or guardian must give consent parking – an angle or perpendicular on the application if the person applying park. The advanced test does include is under 18 years of age. For learning a parallel and hill park and while accompanied by a full licensed ch Some common reasons for not driver, the holder of a class 7 driver’s licence may operate, the following: passing the road tests Exceeding the minimum number of a vehicle or vehicle-trailer combination points for errors. that the holder of a Class 5 driver’s Ar Regardless of the number of points for licence may operate errors, the following are some of the a motorcycle (must be 16 years of reasons for automatic failure: age or older when learning with a supervisor who holds a Class 6 Exceeding the speed limit or driving non-GDL licence) too fast for the conditions. a moped Failing to stop completely before proceeding through an intersection controlled by a stop sign, or before turning right on a red light. Failing to yield the right of way at an intersection or during a lane change. Obstructing traffic by driving too slowly or stopping unnecessarily. Chapter 1 Licensing Information 13 Class 5 - GDL a motorcycle (for learning with a The minimum licensing age is 16 years. supervisor who holds a Class 6 non-GDL licence) Anyone under the age of 18 years The holder of a Class 5 driver’s licence applying for a driver’s licence must have shall not operate: parental or guardian consent. a motorcycle (unless for learning) The holder of a class 5 GDL driver’s licence may operate, the following: a vehicle with a seating capacity of more than 15 while that vehicle is a vehicle or vehicle-trailer combination transporting any person other than that the holder of a Class 5 driver’s the driver licence may operate a vehicle transporting passengers Class 5 – NON-GDL for hire The minimum licensing age is 18 years. a vehicle equipped with air brakes, The holder of a class 5 NON-GDL driver’s unless the supervisor has an air licence may operate the following: brake endorsement a vehicle or vehicle-trailer combination that the holder of a Class 5 driver’s licence may operate Vehicles that may be operated with a ed For hire, driver licence requirements A Class 4 driver’s licence is required iv Class 5 driver’s licence: when the vehicle owner or operator, or a vehicle with only two-axles the operator’s employer, is being paid for a recreational vehicle with not more the service that the vehicle is being used ch than three axles to provide. a vehicle with only two-axles while that A Class 4 driver’s licence is NOT vehicle is towing a trailer with one or required when the vehicle owner or more axles, and is not equipped with operator, or the operator’s employer air brakes drives a private passenger vehicle for Ar a recreational vehicle with only two the transportation of passengers on axles while that vehicle is towing a an incidental or occasional basis and trailer with one or more axles, and the receives compensation for: trailer is not equipped with air brakes payment for the kilometres travelled, or a recreational vehicle with three axles straight reimbursement for out-of- while that vehicle is towing a trailer pocket expenses directly related that has one or two axles and is not to the transportation such as gas, equipped with air brakes parking, gate passes and tolls, or a moped when the vehicle operator is party to all motor vehicles included under an agreement to provide transportation classes 1, 2, 3 and 4 for learning. The for compensation only to: learner must be at least 18 years of the operator’s family members age and have a supervisor with a valid members of the operator’s household driver’s licence for the type of vehicle. persons for whom the operator is a legal guardian 14 Driver’s Guide to Operation, Safety and Licensing Air brake Class 1, 2, and 3 commercial road tests are conducted by Government of Alberta endorsement (Q) driver examiners and can be scheduled When a person successfully completes through an Alberta registry agent or online an approved Alberta air brake course through the Government of Alberta online through an authorized agency, an air scheduling system. brake endorsement (the letter Q) will be For more information on how to book a placed on that driver’s licence. road test, please refer to our website: An air brake endorsement is required for www.alberta.ca/drivers-road-test.aspx drivers of vehicles with: an air-only braking system, or Driver’s licence a combination of air and hydraulic A driver’s licence is a licence to operate braking system a motor vehicle issued pursuant to the For information on taking an approved air Traffic Safety Act. A person shall not drive brake course, please refer to our website: a motor vehicle on a highway unless that www.alberta.ca/air-brake-program.aspx Driver examiner Driver examiners are responsible for ed person’s driver’s licence is in that person’s possession. On the request of a peace officer, a person driving a motor vehicle shall produce their subsisting driver’s licence, insurance and registration. iv ensuring only qualified individuals receive Ensure that these documents are a driver’s licence. Road tests must be with you every time you operate a conducted only by persons designated motor vehicle. by the Government of Alberta as driver ch examiners. For information on how to become a licensed driver examiner to Applying for your conduct road tests in Alberta, visit Alberta driver’s www.alberta.ca/apply-to-become-a- licensed-driver-examiner.aspx licence Ar Registry Agent Offices are the primary Driver licensing services are provided sites for road tests to begin and end. through the Alberta registry On a road test, no passengers or pets agent network. are allowed. An exemption to this is When applying for an Alberta driver’s when an examiner is accompanied by a licence you must provide identification. government official during a training or For information on the monitoring session. identification requirements visit Class 4, 5, and 6 road tests are www.alberta.ca/id-requirements-for- delivered by licensed driver examiners identification-cards.aspx through Alberta registry agents on or contact a registry agent at behalf of the Government of Alberta. www.alberta.ca/service-alberta.aspx Licensed driver examiners are trained, A driver’s licence may only be issued to licensed, monitored and audited by residents of Alberta. A resident the government. Road tests can be is a person lawfully entitled to be in scheduled through an Alberta registry agent. Chapter 1 Licensing Information 15 Canada, who makes their home in Alberta from outside of Alberta for the first 90 and is ordinarily present in Alberta. days of their residency. Applicants originating from outside They must apply for an Alberta driver’s Canada or the United States must licence and give their old licence to an produce suitable immigration documents Alberta registry agent office within those to be considered as residents. 90 days. It is illegal to hold more than one driver’s licence. Parental consent requirement If you are under the age of 18, and are Depending on the class of licence, driver’s applying for a driver’s licence for the first licence equivalency restrictions may apply time, your parent or legal guardian, who to individuals exchanging a driver’s licence must show proof of guardianship, must from another jurisdiction within Canada. accompany you to a registry office to sign Applicants for class 1, 2 or 4 licences a consent on your licence application. must provide a medical report and pass a Parents or legal guardians have the right vision screening. to withdraw their consent in writing at any For more information on exchanging a time until the person reaches the age of 18 years. If they do, the driver’s licence privileges will be suspended. The signature of your parent or legal guardian is not required if you can provide ed licence from another province, refer to the website: www.alberta.ca/exchange-non- alberta-licences.aspx From the United States iv documentation that you are married Licence holders from the United States, or self-supporting. other than those in the class 5, 6 and 7, must complete all requirements. ch Non-Alberta When you apply, you may be required to provide documents to prove residency. license for tourists For details, inquire at your local registry agent office. and visitors Ar A person visiting Alberta who is Countries with reciprocal authorized to drive a motor vehicle of licensing agreements a particular class or type under a valid Alberta currently has Reciprocal Licensing licence or permit issued outside Alberta Agreements with the following countries: is not required to hold a current and valid driver’s licence if the person drives the Austria same type or class of motor vehicle while Australia visiting in Alberta. Belgium England New Alberta residents France Germany From other places in Canada Isle of Man People who have recently moved to Japan Alberta may use their valid driver’s licence Netherlands Northern Ireland 16 Driver’s Guide to Operation, Safety and Licensing  Republic of Korea The student is authorized to operate a Scotland motor vehicle of the same type or class Switzerland by the laws of the jurisdiction in which the student ordinarily resides. United States The documents required by the laws Wales of the jurisdiction where the student A valid licence from a country that has ordinarily resides are carried by the a Reciprocal Licensing Agreement with student or are in the vehicle. Alberta can be exchanged for a Class 5 The student must carry proof showing licence when the applicant presents a that he or she is a full time student in valid licence of equivalent class. this province. Note: Japanese licence exchanges must be completed at an approved Medical requirements registry agent office. Parental consent It is your responsibility and legal obligation for applicants under 18 years of age to disclose any medical or physical is required. and vision screening. The applicants ed All other licence classes require testing must disclose all medical conditions and physical disabilities that may affect their condition that may interfere with the safe operation of a motor vehicle. If you have a medical or physical condition, you will be required to provide a completed Medical Examination for Motor Vehicle Operators form. Medical Examination forms can be iv ability to safely operate a motor vehicle. All applicants must produce immigration obtained from an Alberta Registry Agent and residency documentation along office, your doctor or a nurse practitioner. with acceptable identification. Your doctor or a nurse practitioner ch must complete this form. The Medical Countries without reciprocal Examination form must be returned to an Alberta Registry Agent office. licensing agreements A person coming to Alberta from outside A person 75 years of age or older, Canada may apply to have their previous who applies for a driver’s licence, or is Ar driving history credited to their Alberta renewing their existing driver’s licence, driving record. A successful application must provide a Medical Examination will grant exemption from the Graduated for Motor Vehicle Operators form, and Driver Licensing (GDL) program and allow have their vision assessed at an Alberta for Class 5 road testing without being Registry Agent office. The Medical required to hold a Class 7 driver’s licence Examination for Motor Vehicle Operators for one year. More information about the form must be completed and signed by process for exchanging a licence from a a physician or a nurse practitioner. non-reciprocal country is available at any You may be requested to provide a registry agent office. medical report, regardless of your age, to determine your medical fitness to operate Students a motor vehicle. A student is not required to obtain an The basic road test may be requested, Alberta driver’s licence when operating a for any driver, if there are concerns about motor vehicle if the following apply: their medical fitness. Chapter 1 Licensing Information 17 Driver Licence classes Endorsement codes 1, 2 or 4 An endorsement code on a driver’s A person who applies for, or renews, licence shows that the person has a class 1, 2 or 4 driver’s licence must had specific education or training, like provide a completed Medical Examination completing a novice driver education for Motor Vehicle Operators form. This course or a course specific to operating will be required every five years to age 45, a school bus. An endorsement may also then every two years until the age of 65, indicate that the person is permitted to and annually thereafter. drive a vehicle that has a specific feature, like a vehicle with air brakes. Condition codes Each condition or endorsement has a letter code attached to it and may be shown and endorsements on the driver’s licence. Conditions and endorsements specific to you are placed Condition codes on the front of the licence, in the Cond/End A condition code may be added to section. Some of the condition codes and a person’s driver’s licence to ensure that person meets the requirements to operate a motor vehicle. For example, all drivers must meet specific vision requirements to operate a vehicle. If ed endorsements have an explanation on the back of the driver’s licence. iv you require glasses or contact lenses to improve your vision to these specific standards, you will have a Condition code ch placed on your driver’s licence indicating this requirement. Also, a person can be required to have a medical examination by a doctor or a nurse practitioner periodically to be allowed to drive, and this will be indicated on the driver’s Ar licence. In more extreme situations, a change in a person’s situation can make it impossible for him or her to safely operate a vehicle. These situations are not common, but do mean that the person is not able to be licensed to operate a vehicle. 18 Driver’s Guide to Operation, Safety and Licensing  Driver licence condition codes: Re-classing your A Adequate Lenses licence B Special Conditions When re-classing your driver’s licence C Periodic Medical* (excluding class 7 to class 5), you must present proof that you have completed a D Periodic Vision Report* knowledge test and vision test through a E Periodic Driver Examination* registry agent office. F Valid Temporary Licence Re-classing your driver’s licence from your current class to a class 1, 2 or 4 H Daylight Driving Only licence will also require a medical report. J Outside Mirrors See the medical requirements section for K Automatic Transmission more information. L Hand Controls A fee is charged for each knowledge test, road test, and for the final licence re- M Under Alberta Transportation N P Review* Excludes Class 2 and 4 Testing to be conducted by Provincial Examiner only* ed classification service. For information knowledge test fee, visit www.alberta.ca/drivers-knowledge-test.aspx For information on road test fee, visit www.alberta.ca/drivers-road-test.aspx. iv T Special Medical* Driving with the wrong licence class is against the law. It is an offence for vehicle Driver licence endorsements: owners to allow their vehicle to be used ch Q Air Brakes by someone who does not have the proper class of licence for that vehicle. S School Bus V Extended Length Vehicle Combinations Replacing your Ar U Completed Driver Alberta driver’s Education Course* *Do not appear on the driver’s licence licence If your driver’s licence is lost, stolen, destroyed or is unreadable, you must apply for a replacement immediately at a registry agent office. If your driver’s licence is stolen, you must report it to the police, and provide a copy of the police report to the registry agent when you apply for your replacement. All services for your driver’s licence must be done in person. Chapter 1 Licensing Information 19 Renewing your Registration Alberta driver’s and insurance licence Registration The Government of Alberta has stopped Motor vehicles and trailers travelling on mailing out reminders about driver’s Alberta roadways must be registered. licences and vehicle registration. Registration certificates cannot be Albertans with disabilities will continue to issued to anyone under the age of receive reminders in the mail. Albertans 18 years, unless the application for can sign up for electronic reminders registration is also signed by a parent by visiting E-registry or MyAlberta and or guardian. A parent or guardian signing up for free reminders. It is your has the right to withdraw consent in responsibility to renew your driver’s writing during this time. If consent licence on or before the expiry date. is withdrawn, the licence plate and vehicle registration will be Updating your Alberta driver’s licence To change the information, such as your name, address, or licence class, on your edsuspended. The signature of your parent or guardian is not required if you can prove you are married or self-supporting. In Alberta, licence plates remain with iv driver’s licence visit an Alberta registry the owner of the vehicle and are not agent office. transferable to another person. A vehicle owner must register his or The law requires that you have the her vehicle within three months of ch correct information, such as a name moving to Alberta. or address change, on your driver’s licence. You may be required to provide Insurance requirements proper identification before any change, All motor vehicles must be insured with replacement or renewal can be made. a public liability insurance policy as Ar To replace, renew or update your Alberta outlined in the Alberta Insurance Act. driver’s licence contact a registry agent by It is illegal to operate an uninsured visiting www.servicealberta.gov.ab.ca/find- motor vehicle. a-registry-agent.cfm Your insurance company issues a financial responsibility card (pink card) which must be presented when registering a vehicle and when requested by a peace officer. 20 Driver’s Guide to Operation, Safety and Licensing 2 iv ed Traffic Control ch Ar Traffic control signals Left turn at red light Unless a sign prohibits the turn, the only left turn Traffic control signals are lights that permitted at a red light is onto a one-way use the colors green, yellow and street from a one-way street. This turn is red to control the flow of traffic at only permitted after the vehicle is brought intersections or where roadways to a complete stop before the stop line or merge. The color of the light crosswalk, and if the turn can be made determines which stream of traffic safely after yielding to other traffic. has the right of way. The traffic control signal may be vertical or Solid yellow light: horizontal. When a green light changes to yellow, it warns that the light will change to red The order of lights immediately and drivers must prepare to for a horizontal traffic The order of lights for a vertical traffic control signal is red at the top, yellow control signal is red on the left, yellow in the centre, and green on the right. ed stop or clear the intersection. Drivers approaching an intersection with a solid (not flashing) yellow traffic control light must bring their vehicles to a complete stop before the stop line or crosswalk, unless a point has been reached at the iv in the centre, and green at the bottom. intersection where stopping cannot be done safely. If there is no stop line or Solid red light: crosswalk, vehicles must stop before ch the intersection. Drivers already in the intersection and facing a yellow light must safely clear Drivers facing a traffic control signal the intersection. displaying a solid red light must bring their Ar vehicles to a complete stop before the Solid green light: stop line or crosswalk that is directly in front of the vehicle. If there is no stop line or crosswalk, drivers must stop before the intersection. Vehicles must remain Drivers facing a solid green traffic control stopped at the red light until it turns green, light are permitted to travel through the unless safely turning right after stopping. intersection without stopping, unless A solid double red light has the same required to yield to oncoming traffic when meaning as a single red light. turning left or to pedestrians in the crosswalk when turning right or left. Right turn at red light Unless a sign prohibits the turn, a driver may turn right When approaching a green light, at a red light after stopping completely anticipate that it will turn yellow. A before the stop line or crosswalk, if the “stale” green light means the light has turn can be made safely after yielding to been green for a while and will turn other traffic. yellow soon. A good tip is to check the 22 Driver’s Guide to Operation, Safety and Licensing pedestrian walk light at the intersection. If Flashing yellow light: it shows the WALK symbol, the light will stay green. If it shows the DON’T WALK symbol, be ready to stop. If the traffic light does change, the driver must stop before the intersection if it can be done safely. Drivers facing a flashing yellow traffic control light may proceed with caution Green arrow with green light: after yielding to pedestrians and other vehicles within the intersection. Flashing green light: Drivers facing a traffic control light with a green arrow and solid green traffic control light may enter the intersection and proceed without yielding in the direction Drivers facing a flashing green traffic indicated by the arrow. Drivers facing the control light are permitted to go through, directions when it is safe and legal. Green arrow with red light: ed green light may also proceed in the other turn left or turn right without stopping. Opposing traffic will be facing a red light; however a driver must still yield to pedestrians or other vehicles lawfully in the intersection. iv Drivers facing a traffic control light with a Pedestrian signals and signs ch green arrow and a red control light may enter the intersection and proceed Drivers must understand pedestrian without stopping only in the direction control lights so they can anticipate indicated by the arrow. the actions of those sharing the road. Flashing red light: Pedestrians facing a traffic control signal Ar where a word or symbol indicating “WALK” is displayed, may enter the crosswalk or roadway when it is safe, and proceed in that direction. Drivers facing a flashing red traffic control A pedestrian facing a traffic signal where light must stop before the stop line or a word or symbol indicates DON’T crosswalk. If there is no stop line or WALK must not enter the crosswalk or crosswalk, drivers must stop before the roadway. Pedestrians who have begun intersection. Drivers should proceed only crossing when the word or symbol when it is safe and after yielding the appears may continue crossing and clear right-of way. The flashing red light is the crosswalk. Some pedestrian signals treated like a stop sign. include a countdown timer to show how When the lights in all directions are much time remains before the flashing red the intersection becomes a light changes. 4-way stop. Chapter 2 Traffic Control 23  Lane reversal signals Lane reversal signals are used to control the direction of traffic on specific lanes of a roadway. A common use of this control is reversible lanes that change the flow of Pedestrian signal traffic during different times of the day. Pedestrian signal indicating “WALK” indicating “DON’T The signal(s) over one or more lanes WALK” or “WAIT” change between a red X and a green arrow. Yellow lights on a sign with a symbol indicate that caution is required because Solid red X: of school zones or areas, playground zones or areas, school crossings, and pedestrian crossings. When the yellow lights are flashing, the driver must reduce speed to a maximum of 30 km/h and yield or stop for pedestrians. ed When a red X is displayed over a driving lane, the driver does not enter or remain in that lane. This signal indicates that the lane is being used by oncoming traffic. iv Move safely into a lane with a Pedestrian crossing green arrow. signs with yellow lights (above) and Downward pointing green arrow: ch without yellow lights (at right). At intersections with traffic control signals, but without pedestrian WALK and DON’T WALK signals, pedestrians must obey the Ar rules for the colour of light they are facing. A driver facing the downward pointing Solid red light Do not enter green arrow is permitted to travel in the intersection. that lane. Solid yellow light Clear the intersection if already crossing, or do not enter the intersection. Solid green light Proceed across the road within any marked or unmarked crosswalk. Pedestrians should check for vehicles before starting to cross. 24 Driver’s Guide to Operation, Safety and Licensing  Action or activity within circle is permitted. Green circle on white background Square shape Regulatory message such as speed limit Regulatory message on white background Rectangle shape Vehicle moving from red X lane to green arrow lane. Sign shapes and colours The word or symbol on traffic regulation ed Indicates school zone/area or school crosswalk. Fluorescent yellow green background iv signs tell the driver what can or cannot Pentagon shape be done at a specific location or time, and provide information. The shape and ch colour will vary depending on the type of message. Indicates lane control. Traffic regulation signs include those that show right-of-way and road access White message on that is permitted or prohibited. They also black background Ar show control of speed, turns, direction Square shape of travel, passing, traffic lanes, parking and crosswalks. Provides construction area information. Action or activity within the circle is not permitted. Information or picture on orange background Red circle and slash on white background Diamond shape Square shape Chapter 2 Traffic Control 25 Provides information such as distance Yield: to destination. Yield the right of way to traffic not facing White message on the sign and to all pedestrians waiting to green background cross and within the crosswalk Rectangle shape or intersection. Indicates place for fuel, food, lodging or assistance. White message on brown background Square shape Wrong way: Indicates traffic is moving in an oncoming direction. White message on blue background Square shape ed iv Indicates caution or warning of hazard Do not enter: displayed on sign. Black lettering on ch yellow background Diamond shape Railway crossing: Ar Traffic regulatory signs Stop: Come to a complete stop and do not proceed until safe. 26 Driver’s Guide to Operation, Safety and Licensing Traffic direction signs Speed limit signs Speed limits do not indicate the Proceed in direction maximum speed drivers should travel. of arrow only: They are the maximum speed permitted when conditions are ideal. Any speed that is unsafe for the current conditions is illegal. Unless otherwise posted: Two way traffic: Speed limit signs are in kilometres per hour (km/h). Divider ahead – keep right: ed 100 km/h is the maximum speed limit on a provincial highway located outside an urban area. 80 km/h is the maximum speed iv limit on a provincial highway located inside a corporate limit of a city. ch 80 km/h is the maximum speed limit on a roadway that is located outside an urban area. Ar A provincial highway is identified by either a single-digit, two-digit or three-digit highway route marker. A local road generally would not have a route marker but could be identified by a name, such as Irricana Road, a township road, such as TWP RD 52, or a range road, such as RGE RD 252. 50 km/h is the maximum speed limit on a roadway that is located within an urban area, unless otherwise posted. Chapter 2 Traffic Control 27 Designated Left lane turn left, right lane straight lane signs or turn left: The message or symbol on these signs indicates the direction(s) a vehicle must travel in the lane. Right turn: Left turn: Left lane turn left, right lane straight: Straight or Straight or right turn: left turn: ed Left lane turn left, centre lane straight, right lane straight or turn right: iv Straight Left turn only: lane control: ch Indicated lanes are reserved for specific vehicles like buses, taxis and bicycles. The symbol on the sign will identify the Ar Some intersections allow more than one vehicles permitted to travel in this lane. vehicle travelling in the same direction to Reserved lanes may operate at all times turn at the same time. Maintain your lane or only some of the time. Reserved lanes position during and after the turn. that operate only some of the time will show the hours of the day and the days Dual Dual of the week when the lane is reserved. right turn: left turn: 28 Driver’s Guide to Operation, Safety and Licensing Permissive signs Prohibitive signs Permission signs are a green circle The symbol prohibiting an action is a red on a white square. The action within circle and diagonal red bar on a white the green circle is permitted. square. The action within the red circle is not permitted. Turn left only: No left turn: No right turn: Turn right only: No U-turn: Do not pass: Straight only: ed Do not pass bicycles: iv ch Dangerous Motorized goods: snow vehicles: Ar Trucks: Bicycles: Passing permitted: Chapter 2 Traffic Control 29 No No motorized No parking on the days and times pedestrians: snow vehicles: shown: No trucks: No bicycles: No stopping on the days and times shown: No dangerous goods: ed iv Parking and stopping not permitted: School zones The arrow under the symbol indicates and areas ch where the action indicated on the sign is not permitted. School zone: When you approach a school sign, with a maximum speed posted with it, you Ar are entering a school zone. You must not exceed the posted speed when the zone is in effect. Times (school days only) are: 8:00 a.m. – 9:30 a.m. 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. 3:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. 30 Driver’s Guide to Operation, Safety and Licensing These hours may vary for different towns School crosswalk and cities according to municipal bylaws. This sign alerts drivers to watch If a municipality does establish times for pedestrians. different from these, the times will be posted beneath the school sign. You are not permitted to pass or attempt to pass another vehicle travelling in the same direction within a school zone, when the zone is in effect. The speed limit for both urban and rural school zones is 30 km/h unless otherwise posted. Playground zones and School zone ends: areas A school zone ends where a traffic sign indicates: 1. a higher maximum speed, or 2. the end of the school zone. ed Playground zone: iv When you approach a playground sign with a maximum speed sign attached to ch it, you are entering a playground zone. You must not exceed the posted speed, School area: when the zone is in effect. When you approach a school sign Playground restrictions are in effect Ar without a speed sign attached to it, you every day from 8:30 a.m. to one hour are entering a school area. This sign is to after sunset. alert drivers that children may be walking These hours may vary for different towns or crossing the road and you must use and cities according to municipal bylaws. caution when driving through the If a municipality does establish times school area. different from these, the times will be posted beneath the playground sign. You are not permitted to pass or attempt to pass another vehicle travelling in the same direction within a playground zone when the speed restriction is in effect. The speed limit for both urban and rural playground zones, when the times are in effect, is 30 km/h unless otherwise posted. Chapter 2 Traffic Control 31 Playground zone ends: It is illegal for any vehicle to park or stop in a parking stall reserved for persons with disabilities unless the vehicle has an identifying parking placard or licence plate. The application for a parking placard for persons with disabilities can be found at www.alberta.ca/get-parking-placard-people- A playground zone ends where a traffic disabilities.aspx or by contacting a registry sign indicates: agent or family doctor. 1. a higher maximum speed, or 2. the end of the playground zone. TTY capabilities Playground area: This sign indicates pay phones that have a TTY (teletypewriter) that assists people who are hearing or speech-impaired to ed use telephone networks. iv When you approach a playground sign without a speed limit sign attached to it, ch you are entering a playground area. This sign is to alert drivers that children may be near and you must use caution when Warning signs driving through the playground area. Warning signs give drivers advance notice of actions required, or potentially Ar hazardous conditions on or near a road. Parking services Some of these signs warn of: for persons a traffic regulation, such as stop with disabilities or yield features or physical conditions of the road hazards that may require a driver to respond This sign indicates parking for persons with disabilities. These parking spaces ensure that persons with disabilities have safe access to goods and services. 32 Driver’s Guide to Operation, Safety and Licensing Traffic Regulations: Turn or curve ahead: Stop ahead Yield ahead Sharp turn right Curves right Traffic control School bus signals ahead stop ahead Sharp turn left Road curves left Stop at traffic lights ahead when yellow lights flashing: ed iv Road turns left/right Winding road ch This warning sign is placed in advance of some intersections with traffic control signals. When the yellow lights are flashing, drivers approaching the Ar intersection must prepare to stop because the traffic control signal light will be turning from green to yellow or yellow to red, or is currently red. Recommended maximum speed through this curve under ideal driving conditions Chapter 2 Traffic Control 33 Crossings ahead: T intersection T intersection Pedestrian crossing Animal crossing Railway crossing Trucks entering Moose crossing Bicycle crossing from right ed iv School crosswalk Motorized snow Dead end Roundabout vehicles crossing Roadways ahead that join: Intersections ahead: ch Ar Merging traffic Hidden road right Hidden road left Roadways ahead side-by-side but do not join: Hidden road Y intersection Free flow (added lane) 34 Driver’s Guide to Operation, Safety and Licensing Narrow roadways ahead: Pavement ends Slippery when wet Road narrows Narrow passage both sides Hazard marker Hazard marker object on right object on left Left lane narrows Right lane narrows to right to left ed Rumble strips Falling rock iv Left lane ends Right lane ends ch Divided highway: Chevron sign indicates a sharp bend in the road Ar Shared-use Divided highway Divided highway begins ends Changing road conditions: SINGLE LINE Hill Bump Warns motorists to Warns that cyclists are provide space for allowed full use of the cyclists lane ahead and that the lane is too narrow for side-by-side driving. Chapter 2 Traffic Control 35 Information and Off-road services and facilities: Signs for off-road facilities indicate guide signs availability and direction to the services Information and guide signs provide or recreational areas. information about routes, off-road facilities, and geographical features and points of interest. Route markers: Route markers indicate numbers, Hospital Airport names or other designations of roads. Parking Fuel Highway route marker Highway route marker ed iv Food Trailer campground Trans-Canada highway Yellowhead highway ch Telephone Accommodation Bicycle route marker Ar Highway information: Destination signs provide direction and distance to a destination. RCMP or city police Directional Distance Recreation area ahead Combination of direction and distance 36 Driver’s Guide to Operation, Safety and Licensing Other signs Construction The speed limit in construction zones Slow moving vehicle: must be obeyed at all times. This applies A slow-moving vehicle sign is placed on even when people and equipment are the back of vehicles that travel less than not working, since hazards like bumps, 40 km/h, such as farm tractors, fresh oil and loose gravel may be present. machinery or construction equipment. If workers are present, the fines in these This sign warns drivers to be prepared to areas will be doubled. reduce their speed. Obey the flag person’s signal. Be prepared to slow down and stop if required. The following are some of the warning signs about road construction: Over sized loads: ed This sign indicates a wide load is being transported. Use caution when passing vehicles displaying this sign. iv People working Flag person ch Survey crew ahead Uneven pavement Ar Detour next ___ km Construction zone ends Chapter 2 Traffic Control 37 Pavement markings Markings on the roadway can provide the following information: lane identification separating opposing traffic traffic movement in the same direction traffic movement in the opposite direction Solid yellow lines, single or double, indicate that passing is not permitted. passing zones and no passing zones lane use and designation pedestrian crosswalks stop lines parking areas Broken yellow lines indicate that passing is word or symbol messages permitted. Be sure that the lane is clear and In some cases pavement markings are used along with other traffic control signs or signals. Lane markings ed the pass can be completed safely. iv Lane markings can be yellow or white, A solid yellow line and a broken yellow line single or double, solid or broken. These together indicate that a pass is permitted for the driver who has the broken line on his lines provide important information about or her side of the roadway. Passing is not ch direction of traffic flow, lane changing, permitted for the driver with the solid yellow lane restrictions and passing. line on their side of the roadway. Solid line markings: Solid lines mean that crossing the solid Ar line to pass or change lanes is not permitted. Broken line markings: Broken lines mean that crossing the broken line to pass or change lanes is permitted. Yellow line markings: Yellow lines mean that vehicles on each side of the yellow line must travel in opposite directions. A yellow line should always be on the driver’s left side. 38 Driver’s Guide to Operation, Safety and Licensing White line markings: White lines mean that vehicles on each side of the white line are travelling in the same direction. On a two way left turn lane, the centre lane Solid white lines indicate that lane changing of the road is shared and reserved for left is not permitted. turning traffic travelling in either direction. Broken white lines indicate that lane changing is permitted. ed Diamond markings: Diamond markings indicate that a lane is reserved for specific vehicles. There may iv also be signs that will indicate time or vehicle restrictions. Symbols Symbols may be used on the pavement ch to supplement standard signs or by themselves to warn drivers, or to regulate or guide traffic. These markings include: Arrows: Ar Arrows indicate the vehicle movements permitted in a lane. Chapter 2 Traffic Control 39 Shared-use lanes X markings: X markings on rural highways indicate the approach to a railway crossing. An advanced warning sign will also indicate the approach to a railway crossing. Reserved bicycle lane ahead Bicycle lanes are painted in the curb lane of the road with bicycle-shaped stencils and street signage. Bicycle lanes can also be positioned beside a row of parking spots. Vehicles are not allowed to drive in the bicycle lanes, except when needing to turn or enter/exit a parking spot. The bicycle lane paint line is usually dashed near corners to indicate that it is permitted to enter the bicycle lane to turn right. Be very careful and watch for ed Painted island: Painted islands indicate that this area is not to be used for travel by any road users. Motorists can cross painted iv bicycles when entering the bicycle lane islands for the purpose of entering or when turning. leaving a driveway, alleyway or private drive. ch Do not park or stop in this area. Ar Bicycle lane markings This lane is reserved for cyclists. It is separated from traffic and parking by solid white lines and is marked with an image of a bicycle and diamond. The image of a bicycle capped by a pair of arrows guides cyclists and reminds drivers to expect cyclists in the same travel lane. 40 Driver’s Guide to Operation, Safety and Licensing Other roadway markings Crosswalks: Crosswalk lines mark pedestrian crosswalks. Crosswalks also exist at intersections even when they are unmarked, unless a sign indicates no crossing. Stop lines indicate where vehicles must stop at intersections or railway crossings. Crosswalk lines Stop line ed iv Drivers should not stop in a ‘no stopping zone’ because they may interfere with other vehicles that are turning from one roadway to another. This is usually where ch lar