Getting a Nova Scotia Driver’s License

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In Nova Scotia, there are three main stages to obtaining a driver’s license:

1. Learner’s License – Class 7

2. Newly Licensed – Class 5N

3. Restricted License – Class 5R

4. Full Driver’s License

On average, it takes six years to move from a learner’s license to a full driver’s license.

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1. Learner’s License (Class 7)

This is the first step in the Nova Scotia Graduated Driver Licensing program.

• Minimum age: 16 years

• If under 18: You need written consent from a parent/guardian (form available at Access Nova Scotia – Registry of Motor Vehicles). If both parents are deceased, a legal guardian or employer may provide consent.

Tests Required

To get a Class 7 license, you must pass:

1. Vision test—ensures you meet minimum vision standards.

   • If you fail, you must see an optometrist/ophthalmologist and return the completed form to Access Nova Scotia.

   • If corrective lenses are required, your license will carry this condition.

2. Rules test – minimum score: 16/20

3. Road signs test – minimum score: 16/20

Fees and Validity

• Fee: $25.10

• Valid for 2 years

• You must wait 12 months before attempting the road test. This period can be reduced to 9 months if you complete a government-approved Driver Education Course (bring your certificate to the road test).

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Restrictions for Class 7

• You cannot drive alone—a fully licensed driver must be with you.

• Zero alcohol tolerance—your blood alcohol level must always be 0.00.

❌ If you break these rules, you get demerit points.

• Max allowed: 3 points.

• 4 or more points = license suspended for 6 months.

• If suspension happens close to your license expiry, you may need to reapply. 

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2. Newly Licensed (Class 5N)

Once you pass your road test, you receive a Class 5N license, valid for 2 years.

Road Test Application

• Road test fee: $52.54 (pay online: Nova Scotia Road Test Payment)

• On the form:

  • Type of road test: Class 5 Operator’s License

  • Master number: Found on your license (5 letters of surname + birthdate + 3 random digits).

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What to Bring for the Road Test

• Driver training certificate (if testing within 9 months of Class 7).

• Road test receipt.

• Learner’s license.

• Additional documents (if using a driving school car, the school provides these).

Restrictions for Class 5N

• Zero alcohol tolerance.

• No driving between 12 am – 5 am, unless you have an employer’s letter (only for travel to/from work).

Demerit Points

• 4 points:Called for an interview on safe driving.

• 6 points: License suspended for 6 months.

✅ You may reduce points by taking a Defensive Driving Course (6 hours, approx. $130).

• Removes 3 points from your record.

• Can only take it once.

• Completing the course may also allow you to remove the “N” from your license and move to full status.

3. Restricted License (Class 5R)

After holding Class 5N for 2 years, you can upgrade to Class 5R by visiting Access Nova Scotia.

• At this stage, you are no longer restricted from driving between 12 am – 5 am.

• To upgrade, you must present either

  • A Driver Education Program Certificate, or

  • A Defensive Driving Course Certificate.

✅ Following these steps carefully will guide you through Nova Scotia’s Graduated Driver Licensing system, all the way from your first learner’s permit to a full, unrestricted driver’s license.

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