New Brunswick Teen Driving Laws: A Parent's and Teen's Guide to the GDL

For teenagers, getting a driver's license is a rite of passage, symbolizing newfound freedom and responsibility. For parents, it can be a time of both excitement and anxiety. In New Brunswick, the Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) program is designed to ease this transition, ensuring that new drivers, especially teens, gain skills and experience under the safest possible conditions. This guide will walk both parents and teens through the specific laws and restrictions that apply to young drivers in New Brunswick.

The "Why" Behind Graduated Licensing

Statistics consistently show that young and inexperienced drivers are at a higher risk of being involved in collisions. The GDL program in New Brunswick is not about age, but about experience. It introduces driving privileges in stages, allowing teens to build their skills in lower-risk environments before they face more challenging driving situations. The entire GDL program takes a minimum of two years to complete.

Stage 1: The Class 7, Level I License (Learner's Permit)

This is the very first step into the world of driving.

Getting Started:

Minimum Age: A teen must be at least 16 years old to apply.
Parental Consent: Since the applicant is a minor, a parent or legal guardian must provide written consent. This form must be witnessed by someone who is not a relative.
Tests: The applicant must pass a vision screening and a written knowledge test on road signs and rules of the road.

Key Restrictions for Level I Drivers:

Zero Alcohol: A 0% Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) is mandatory at all times.
Supervising Driver: The teen driver must always be accompanied by a supervising driver. This person must:
- Hold a valid Class 5 (or better) driver's license.
- Have at least three years of driving experience.
- Sit in the front passenger seat.
Passenger Limit: Only one passenger, the supervising driver, is permitted in the front seat.
Nighttime Curfew: Driving is strictly prohibited between midnight and 5:00 a.m.

For Parents: This is the most crucial teaching phase. Your guidance and calm instruction from the passenger seat are invaluable. Ensure your teen gets a wide range of experience in different conditions—day, night (before curfew), residential streets, and highways.

Stage 2: The Class 7, Level II License (Intermediate License)

After gaining experience, the teen can take their first road test to move to the next level.

Moving to Level II:

Waiting Period: The teen must have held the Level I license for at least 12 months. This can be shortened to 8 months if they complete a recognized driver training course.
Road Test: They must pass a practical road test to demonstrate their driving skills.

Key Restrictions for Level II Drivers:

Zero Alcohol: The 0% BAC rule continues to apply. All drivers under 21 in New Brunswick must have a 0% BAC, even with a full license.
Unsupervised Driving: The teen can now drive without a supervising driver during most hours.
Nighttime Curfew: The curfew between midnight and 5:00 a.m. remains in effect for drivers under 21.
- Exemptions: An exemption for work or education purposes may be granted, but this requires a formal application. If driving during the curfew for an approved reason, they must be accompanied by a fully licensed driver with 3 years of experience.
Passenger Restrictions: There can be no more than three passengers in the vehicle, and only one passenger is allowed in the front seat.

For Parents: While your teen now has more independence, it's important to continue the conversation about safe driving. Set clear rules and expectations for vehicle use, and reinforce the importance of avoiding distractions like cell phones.

The Final Stage: The Full Class 5 License

After 12 months on a Level II license without any suspensions, the teen driver is eligible to receive their full, unrestricted Class 5 license. While most GDL restrictions are lifted, the 0% BAC rule remains in effect until they turn 21.

Penalties for Violating GDL Conditions

The consequences for breaking GDL rules are severe. Any breach, such as driving with alcohol in their system or violating curfews, can result in a one-year license suspension and being moved back to the very beginning of the GDL program. Similarly, losing all demerit points will lead to a suspension and a complete reset.

By working together and respecting the GDL rules, parents and teens can ensure that the journey to becoming a licensed driver in New Brunswick is a safe and successful one.