GRADUATED LICENCING: SOME QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

What is graduated licencing?

• Graduated licencing is a two-step, two year licencing process that is designed to help novice drivers acquire, on a gradual basis, the knowledge and skill needed to safely operate a motor vehicle. The most significant feature of graduated licencing is that it enables novice drivers to gain experience in conditions where the risk of having a collision is low. This is accomplished by gradually increasing driving privileges during the novice driver's first two years on the road.

• Graduated licencing will apply to all novice drivers regardless of age. Inexperience, not age, places novice drivers in higher risk for collisions.

• Graduated licencing applies to all novice drivers of passenger cars, light trucks and motorcycles.

• For novice drivers, there is zero tolerance for alcohol. If alcohol is detected, a novice driver's licence will be cancelled.

• Other restrictions (see enclosed Classes and Levels - Graduated Drivers Licencing Program) deal with such areas as defined driving hours; the number of passengers allowed in or on a vehicle, the driving experience of accompanying drivers; and the highways on which novice drivers can travel.

When will the graduated system for novice drivers be introduced?

• Government intends to introduce the graduated drivers licencing system beginning January 1, 1999.

Will the graduated program result in lower insurance rates?

• It is expected that the graduated drivers licencing program will lead to fewer, less severe collisions. This, in turn, is expected to lower insurance premiums.

Will this program cost drivers more than the old one?

• The fee structure remains the same under the new program. Permit fees, road test fees and licence fees will not change.