What steps do I have to take if I want to get a driver's licence?

Before you, as a resident of New Brunswick, may obtain a learner's licence, you must first pass an examination to determine if you meet the required vision standards. Appointments can be set up by contacting one of the Driver Examiner's offices, which are located at Service New Brunswick (SNB) Centres throughout the Province.

To obtain a learner's licence, you must also have an acceptable knowledge of road signs, rules of the road and safe driving practices. You will be given a written or oral examination on your ability to recognize and understand the meaning of highway road signs and on the traffic laws and rules of safe driving.

When you go for your appointment, you must present one original or certified copy of a valid passport, birth certificate, or court order to verify your name and date of birth and two pieces of identification to verify your current address. It may be a requirement for a parent or guardian to accompany you to verify your address.

You will find the Driver's Handbook a useful tool. It will provide you the basic information to help you become a safe and responsible driver. You can download the handbook at http://www.gnb.ca/0276/vehicle/english/handbk_e.asp, or you can buy a copy at Service New Brunswick for $5.00.

Where can I find the phone number for the Driver Examiner's Office?

The phone number may be located under Province of New Brunswick in the Blue pages of your phone book under DRIVER EXAMINERS or go to http://www.snb.ca/e/2000/2001e.asp for a complete listing of SNB locations, phone numbers, addresses and services each office makes available.

Do I need to make an appointment for a written or driving test?

Yes. You should call the Service New Brunswick office in your area to make an appointment.

What do I need when I go for my road test?

You must produce a valid insurance card, a valid registration and inspection, and a roadworthy vehicle.

What happens if I am unsuccessful when I take my road test?

If you are unsuccessful on the examination, the examiner will advise you of the reasons for your failure and will ask you to return after the proper waiting period and after further study and more practical road experience.

Is there a waiting period if I fail my road test?

Yes, there is a waiting period of one week after your first failure, two weeks after a second failure, and three weeks after a third failure.

How long must I hold a graduated licence before I am eligible for a Class 5 driver's licence?

For a minimum of 24 months. This licence is an instructional type of licence for a driver to acquire experience before becoming a fully licensed driver.

When does my driver's licence expire?

An individual's driver's licence expires on the licensee's birthday in the year of expiration.

Can I renew my driver's licence after it has expired?

Yes you can renew your licence if it has not been expired for over two (2) years. If it has been expired more than two (2) years, you must contact the Driver Examiner's Office for an appointment to complete a vision, written, and road test.

How long do I have before I must advise the Registrar of a change of address?

Drivers are required by law to advise the Motor Vehicle Branch of any change of address within ten (10) days.

How do I obtain a copy of an accident report?

You must send a written request, along with a cheque or money order in the amount of $8.00 (payable to Minister of Finance), to the Department of Public Safety, Motor Vehicle Branch, PO Box 6000, Fredericton, NB E3B 5H1. In your request, please provide the date of the accident and the name, driver's licence number and/or date of birth for one of the drivers.

Can I receive a photo copy of a police report?

No. This office will prepare an accident information sheet which provides only factual information such as names and addresses of drivers, accident date, time, location, vehicle and owner information as well as insurance particulars. The report will also contain the names and addresses of injured parties and the names of witnesses, if any. The name, detachment & police file number of the investigating police agency will be provided.

What is the procedure to obtain an Abstract of Driving Record?

The fee for each request is $10.00. The full name of driver together with the day, month and year of birth and/or driver's licence number is required. Abstracts may be obtained by mailing a cheque or money order made payable to the Minister of Finance to Department of Public Safety, Motor Vehicle Branch, PO Box 6000, Fredericton, NB E3B 5H1. Abstracts may be obtained in person at SNB (Service New Brunswick) offices located at various locations throughout the Province or by telephone at SNB Teleservice (506-684-7901 for calls originating outside NB or toll-free within NB 1-888-762-8600). NB driver's licence number is required for service. Requests through Teleservice may be paid by Visa or MasterCard.

Are National Safety Code Carriers Abstracts available on-line?

These records are not available on-line. National Safety Code Abstracts may be obtained by contacting Department of Public Safety, Motor Vehicle Branch, PO Box 6000, Fredericton, NB E3B 5H1. The search fee of $10.00 is required for a Carrier Abstract.

Where can I obtain a copy of the Motor Vehicle Act?

The Motor Vehicle Act is located on line, or you may obtain a copy from the Queen's printer at 506-453-2520.

Is my driving record forwarded if I exchange my driver's licence for a New Brunswick driver's licence?

Yes. When an exchange is done a driver's profile from the province you are coming from is received, and it is entered on your record in New Brunswick.

When do I receive my points back?

Two years from the date of conviction. The conviction date is either the date you pay your fine or the date that a Judge finds you guilty of the offence.

How long does the offence stay on my record?

Seven years.