Nova Scotia Driver’s Handbook - Message to the Motorist - Important Graduated Driver Licence Changes

Sep 18, 2026

Uploaded by Blaney

Nova Scotia Driver’s Handbook’s “Message to the Motorist” section summarizes key updates and reminders for drivers before studying for tests. It explains changes to the Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) program, including the addition of a third restricted individual stage on April 1, 2015, and outlines stage durations and restrictions. It also clarifies rules on licence upgrades, exiting GDL requirements, learner licence expiry, and new slow-down and move-over duties for emergency vehicles.

LanguageEnglish

CategoryExam

FormatPDF

Pages17

Reading Time43 min

AccessFree to download

Important Graduated Driver Licence Changes

Your Driver’s Licence

Restricted Individuals

Restrictions

No Upgrade while a Learner or Newly Licensed Driver

Exiting the GDL Program

Learner’s Licence Expiry

Emergency vehicles

Types of vehicles

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FAQs

What new stage was added to Nova Scotia’s GDL program and when?

A third stage called the restricted individual stage was added on April 1, 2015.

How long must a driver remain in the restricted individual stage?

You will remain in the restricted individual stage for 2 full years after leaving the newly licensed stage.

What restrictions apply to Class 5R or 6R (condition 47) drivers?

Drivers must have zero alcohol or drugs while driving, and they cannot be a supervising driver, including during curfew hours between midnight and 5:00 am.

Sep 18, 2026

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