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Single license concept
Application
This standard, which permits a driver to hold only one license, has been implemented to ensure that driving violations are assigned to a single license and that no opportunity exists to use multiple licenses to avoid prosecution and suspension.
Procedure
Upon application, a driver must surrender any out-of-jurisdiction licenses to Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations. The license(s) will then be returned to the issuing province, and the driver’s record will be updated accordingly. An interprovincial record exchange will permit the Department to determine the licensing status of the applicant. Failure to surrender a license may result in a refusal by the Department to issue the requested license.
Law
Motor Vehicle Act, Section 67(2)
Classified license system
The table below outlines the vehicles which may be driven by a holder in each class.
| Licence | Permits the operation of | Minimum age |
|---|---|---|
| **Applicants for a Class 1, 2, 3 or 4 license must have a minimum of 1 year’s experience with a Class 5 license. | ||
| **Applicant must be 18 unless parental consent is given. | ||
| ***19 if public passenger bus or taxi. | ||
| Class 1* |
| 19 |
| Class 2* |
| 19 |
| Class 3* |
| 18 |
| Class 4* |
| 18*** |
| Class 5 |
| 16/18** |
| Class 6 |
| 16/18** |
| Class 7 |
| 16/18** |
| Class 8 |
| 14/18** |
Additional vehicles and vehicles with air brakes may be operated only if the appropriate letter endorsement has been obtained:
- A — Motorcycles & Motor Driven Cycles
- B — School Buses
- C — School Buses and Any Motorcycle
- D — Motorcycles (engine size of 100 cc or less) & Motor Driven Cycles
- E — School Buses, Motorcycles (engine size of 100 cc or less) & Motor Driven Cycles
- F — Vehicles with Air Brakes
Knowledge & performance tests
Application
An applicant must pass the proficiency examinations for the license class for which he has applied. Written exams test the applicant’s knowledge of provincial traffic laws, as well as his ability to read and understand highway signs. Performance or road tests are used to evaluate an applicant’s ability to exercise ordinary and reasonable control in the operation of his motor vehicle.
Law
Motor Vehicle Act, Sections 70(B), 67(1) & 67(24)