How licensing works in Nova Scotia
New drivers in Nova Scotia go through the Graduated Driver Licence (GDL) program. You start with a class 7 learner’s licence, move to a newly licensed class 5N licence after a road test, and then spend two years as a restricted individual before the program ends.
| Stage | How you get it | Minimum time |
|---|---|---|
| Learner (class 7) | Be 16 (consent if 16–17), pass the knowledge and vision tests | Road test after 12 months, or 9 months with a qualifying driver training course |
| Newly licensed (class 5N) | Pass the road test | 2 years |
| Restricted individual (Condition 47) | Complete an authorized driver training program | 2 full years |
Learner rules
- A supervising driver must sit in the front passenger seat. The supervisor must not be in the GDL program.
- Zero blood alcohol at all times while in the GDL program.
- Your learner’s licence is valid for a maximum of two years.
Later stages
- Newly licensed: zero alcohol, and no upgrades to classes 1 to 4.
- Restricted individual: zero alcohol. You cannot supervise a learner, and you cannot supervise a newly licensed driver between midnight and 5 a.m. Upgrades are allowed.
How to finish the GDL program
- Hold your newly licensed (class 5N) licence for at least 2 years.
- Complete an authorized driver training program. Any recognized program completed after October 1, 1994 is accepted.
- Take your graduation certificate to a Registry of Motor Vehicles or Access Nova Scotia centre.
- Drive for 2 full years in the restricted individual stage, following its rules.
Two dates explain why older advice may be wrong. Since April 1, 2015, learner’s licences are valid for two years instead of one, and the restricted individual stage exists. Since April 1, 2016, learners wait 12 months (9 with driver training) before the road test.
The class 7 knowledge test
The knowledge test has two parts. Rules of the Road has 20 multiple-choice questions and Road Sign Recognition has 20. You need at least 16 correct in each part, and you have 30 minutes per part. Study the Driver’s Handbook first.
Online or in person
- Online: use a desktop or laptop with a webcam. Phones and tablets are not allowed. The online test is in English and French.
- In person: at a Registry of Motor Vehicles or Access Nova Scotia office, if you cannot test online.
- Other languages: contact the Registry of Motor Vehicles to arrange an interpreter.
- You must test alone, with no help from others and no resource materials.
Vision test and ID
Online testers do the vision test after passing the knowledge test. In person, you must pass the vision test before the knowledge test. Your ID must show your legal name and date of birth.
If you fail
You retake only the part you failed (or both, if you failed both). Online there is no waiting period; in person you wait until the next day. You pay again for each retake.
After you pass
You cannot drive right away. Go to the Registry of Motor Vehicles or Access Nova Scotia to have your photo taken and pay the learner’s licence fee.
Stop Yield School zone Railway crossing
Test-day tips
- If testing online, check your computer and webcam before you start.
- Find a quiet room where no one can help you, as the rules require.
- Keep an eye on the time: 30 minutes per part is enough if you do not get stuck.
- If you are 16 or 17, have your signed consent form ready.
- When unsure, choose the safest and most legal answer.
Keep studying
This guide covers Nova Scotia’s own licensing rules and test format. The general rules of the road, such as right-of-way, signals, lanes, parking and school buses, are in the national Canada driving study guide. Read it too, and use the Nova Scotia Driver’s Handbook for full details.