You presently have a Class 7 Licence and are a Learner driver. Starting May 20, 2003 there will be new rules for new drivers in Alberta.

Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) is a new program designed to improve road safety by ensuring that as a new driver, you will get the support, skills and experience you need to handle the complex of driving.

If you have a Learner's Licence (Class 7) prior to May 20, 2003, you will not be subject to the new one-year minimum learning period. If you continue to have this class of licence after May20,2003 the following GDL conditions apply to you:

• No alcohol in your blood while driving. There is zero tolerance of drinking alcohol while driving. If you violate this condition of GDL your licence will be suspended for 30 days.

• Be accompanied by a fully licensed (non-GDL probationary) driver who is 18 years of age or older sitting in the front passenger seat. You will be fined $200.00 and two demerit points if you violate this condition.

• Have no more passengers than seat belts in your vehicle. There is a $100.00 fine and two demerit points if you violate this condition.

• Drive only between the hours of 5 a.m. and midnight (or only during daytime hours if you are learning to drive a motorcycle). If you drive after midnight, you will be fined $100.00 and two demerit points.

NOTE: If you are licensed as a Class 7 learner driver before May 20, 2003, and you apply to become a GDL Probationary driver on or after May 20, 2003, you must have less than eight demerit points to leave the Learner Category.

If you successfully pass your Class 5 or 6 road test before May 20, 2003 you will not be affected by the GDL because you will be a fully licensed driver. Your driving behavior will be monitored according to the existing probationary program and actions will be taken based on problem driving such as demerit points or driving offences.

If you are 16 years of age or older and feel you are fully prepared to take a road test before GDL begins, contact an Alberta registry agent's office or driver examiner in your area. Alberta Transportation strongly encourages all young persons to review the fact sheets with your parent(s) or guardian(s). To find registry offices in your area go to the Alberta Government Services website ( www.gov.ab.ca/gs ) and click on Registry Agent Network.

If you have specific questions about how GDL affects you, please call Alberta Transportation at (780) 427-8901, toll-free at 310-0000 or visit www.saferoads.com