Permit application process
- Download the Driver’s Handbook.
- Take the exam online at MyGovNL.
- If you need help reading or writing during your exam, please contact the office in advance and schedule an appointment.
*The three links above are available in English only.
Learner’s licence
To obtain a Newfoundland and Labrador driver’s licence, you must complete the graduated driver’s licence program (some exceptions may apply). This program is a step-by-step, graduated driver’s licencing process designed to help novice (new) drivers gain the knowledge and skills needed to operate a vehicle safely. Driving privileges are gradually increased during the first two years of the new driver’s driving.
New drivers must be at least 16 years old and must pass a written test, a vision test and a road test.
Please refer to the Identification Documents section for the types of identification accepted as proof of age.
Written Exam
Prepare for the test by reading the Road User Guide. The exam includes questions about traffic laws, safe driving practices and road sign recognition. The passing mark of the written exam is 85%. If you require assistance with reading/writing during your exam, please contact the office in advance and schedule an appointment.
Drivers can now take their Class 5, Level I licence test online at MyGovNL .
- Register on MyGovNL using your photo ID issued by the Vehicle Registration Division.
- Don’t have a photo ID? Sign up using your email and MCP card.
The written exam for the Class 5 licence is offered in English online. The written examination for Class 5 is offered in French and Ukrainian at all Office Locations. Please book an appointment online to take the exam in French or Ukrainian.
Vision Test
Once you have passed your learner’s licence, you will need to make an appointment. You are not allowed to drive until you have attended this appointment. During the appointment:
- The results of your written exam will be validated.
- You will have a vision test.
- You will be photographed.
- Your identity documents will be examined. You must show proof of age, identity and, if applicable, proof of your legal presence in Canada. All documents must be originals. Photocopies are not accepted unless certified.
- If you are under 19 years of age, you must obtain the consent of your parent or guardian before receiving a learner’s permit. The parent or guardian must sign the driver’s licence application form.
You are now a Class 5, Level I (Class 5I) novice driver – some restrictions apply. You will receive a temporary permit at the appointment and the card will be sent to you by mail.
Once you have held a Class 5I novice driver’s licence for 12 months, you can apply to take a road test. If you have completed a driver training course at an approved driving school, you can take a road test after eight months.
Road Test
Before the end of your period as a Class 5I entry-level driver, make an appointment to take a road test.
What To Expect
Before the road test: Pay your road test fee at least 24 hours before your road test. Delays in processing your driver’s test receipt may result in the cancellation of the appointment.
On the day of the driving test:
- Arrive 15 minutes early.
- You must submit the following documents:
- Receipt showing that you paid for your road test
- Valid Class 5I driver’s licence
- Valid insurance policy
- Valid registration certificate for the vehicle you are using during the driving test
- You will be provided with safety instructions that must be followed at the time of the exam (e.g., physical distancing requirements, mask protocol, vehicle disinfection, etc.).
- The mechanical condition of your vehicle will be checked.
- You must pass a parking test.
- You must take the road test in accordance with the examiner’s instructions.