Topic: Licensing & ID

MPI has created a series of handbooks, manuals and other educational tools to help you prepare for a driving test and learn the rules of the road – for all types of vehicles.

Other learning aids include:

Mandatory training is required for drivers who want to obtain their Class 1 driver’s licence.

As of September 1, 2019, you must complete an approved Class 1 Mandatory Entry-Level Training (MELT) course before you can book your road test to obtain a Class 1 licence to drive a semi-trailer truck (other existing requirements also apply).

The Province of Manitoba has introduced this mandatory minimum training requirement, which aligns with other Canadian jurisdictions that are in the process of implementing mandatory training programs. Previously, training was recommended but not required prior to obtaining a Class 1 licence.

The MELT course consists of 121.5 hours of standardized training that covers the essential knowledge and skills to safely operate a semi-trailer truck. This mandatory training will help ensure the safety of all road users.

Drivers only need to successfully complete mandatory training once – there is no need to take the training again.

Existing Class 1 drivers

Drivers with an existing valid Manitoba Class 1 licence issued before September 1, 2019, do not need to retest and are not required to take MELT.

Other approved training

The existing 244-hour Professional Truck Driver Training course offered by private vocational institutes in Manitoba fulfils the MELT requirement. Drivers who can show they have successfully completed the 244-hour course can book a road test after September 1, 2019, and attempt a Class 1 licence. If you have previously completed the 244-hour course and want your driving record to show you have achieved the MELT requirement, contact your driving school.

Any other truck-driver training courses are not recognized as fulfilling the MELT requirement. Taken alone, they do not meet the new requirements for Class 1 licence applicants after September 1, 2019.

Training providers

Mandatory training can only be provided by a registered driving school that meets established standards. Registered MELT providers are:

Course requirements

MELT consists of a minimum 121.5 hours of training. Instruction consists of 40.5 hours in class, 40 hours in yard and 41 hours in cab.

Cost

Training providers set their own price for students to take the MELT course. Employers can apply for the Canada-Manitoba Job Grant, which may help cover the cost of training employees.

Road tests

Drivers who have not successfully completed MELT training (or the 244-hour Professional Truck Driver Training course) cannot book or take a Class 1 road test after September 1, 2019. This includes anyone who has previously failed a road test for their Class 1 and wants to re-take the test, and anyone who tried but failed to schedule a test prior to September 1, 2019.

Booking your Class 1 road test

For all students who take MELT in Manitoba, you can book your road test only after your school notifies MPI that you have successfully completed your MELT course. Allow up to three business days for the notification to be processed before attempting to book your test.

Updates to the Class 1 road test

Starting September 1, 2019:

  • Class 1 road tests must be performed on a manual transmission vehicle, to align training and testing.
  • The Class 1 test includes a pre-trip inspection that consists of the inspection, the air brake test, and coupling. Applicants must pass all three elements of the pre-trip inspection.
  • The Class 1 road test includes the air brake component – the tests cannot be taken separately. No separate air-brake endorsement will be issued until the full Class 1 test is successfully completed. (Class 1 applicants who already hold an air brake endorsement must still complete the air brake component of the road test.)
  • Applicants must bring the trip inspection report, confirming the vehicle was fully inspected in the past 24 hours. See a sample trip inspection report.
  • Before you sign in for your road test, the trailer must be uncoupled and the tractor wheels must be blocked. View maps of testing locations, showing where to uncouple and park.

New residents

A driver who obtained a Class 1 licence in a MELT jurisdiction (Ontario, British Columbia, Alberta or Saskatchewan) will be eligible to receive a Class 1 licence in Manitoba, subject to meeting residency and other existing requirements.

As of September 1, 2019, Class 1 drivers who move to Manitoba from a province without MELT, or from the U.S.:

  • Drivers with a minimum of 24 months of Class 1 experience can receive a Manitoba Class 1 licence and do not require MELT.
  • Drivers with 12 to 24 months (less one day) of Class 1 experience do not require MELT if they successfully complete the Class 1 road test within 12 months and two attempts.
  • Drivers with less than 12 months of Class 1 experience must take MELT and successfully complete the Manitoba Class 1 knowledge and road test.

There is no commercial licence reciprocity for drivers moving from anywhere outside of Canada and the U.S. See more information about moving to Manitoba.

For schools and instructors

For information on becoming a MELT registered training provider or registered instructor, contact the Driver Training Permit Unit:

Email: [email protected]
Tel: 204-985-8063
Toll Free: 1-800-665-2410 ext 8063

If you want to take driving lessons before testing for your Class 5 licence, click here to find a list of permitted schools near you.

These schools must employ only instructors who hold valid instructor permits, meaning that they have the necessary training, skills and knowledge to properly train students to be safe drivers. They will also have properly equipped and permitted vehicles which have been inspected by our Permit Unit to meet safety and training standards.

Note that instructors must use the school’s permitted vehicle and cannot use a customer’s personal vehicle. In addition, instructors cannot take you along a route that is used during a driving test.

Your rights as a student

Students have the right to ask the school or instructor to see their valid permits, to ensure that they are getting the best training available. Unpermitted schools or instructors are not acting within the law.

As a student, you have the right to receive a receipt for any services you have paid for.

You may want to clarify with your school or instructor whether you will be responsible for the cost of a red light ticket received during a lesson, and who is responsible for the deductible in the case of a collision during a lesson.

Complaints

You can launch a complaint via email to MPI’s Permit Unit if:

  • If you believe your instructor has behaved inappropriately in any way.
  • You believe a training vehicle is unsafe.

If complaints are upheld against an instructor or school, they can be sanctioned. See a list of sanctions imposed by MPI.

Additional information

For information on Class 1 driving schools, see our Mandatory Entry-Level Training page.

Learn more about Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL). If you are exempt from GDL, see information on authorized instruction.

Driver Training School Permits

Driver training permits are governed by the Driver Training Schools, Driving Instructors and Training Vehicles Regulation 46/2006 under the Drivers and Vehicles Act (DVA).

Driver Training School permits are valid for a period of up to one year, from April 1 to March 31 annually.

Applications and Renewals

To obtain a Driver Training School permit, applicants must submit an application demonstrating their ability to meet the established criteria.

Expired permits cannot be renewed. Permit holders who wish to maintain their permit must apply for renewal prior to March 31 of each year. MPI will distribute renewal documents to permit holders annually in January, enabling permitted Driver Training Schools to update their information as required.

For more information please see the following:

Driver Training School Responsibilities

Permitted Driver Training Schools must act in accordance with all relevant legislation, including:

The Highway Traffic Act

The Drivers and Vehicles Act

Driver Training Schools, Driving Instructors and Training Vehicles Regulation, Man. Reg. 46/2006

Many of the key requirements for Class 1 driver training providers have been summarized in Class 1 Regulatory Requirements.

All Permitted Driving Schools must conduct business in a fair and appropriate manner. This includes complying with Manitoba Public Insurance’s driver training and testing policies and adhering to the Driver Training Provider Professional Code of Conduct.

Driver Training Schools offering Class 1 instruction have additional obligations which are defined in the Training Standards, which are provided to instructors and schools.

Non-Compliance

Driver Training Schools who fail to meet their obligations may be subject to disciplinary action up to and including revocation of the permit. Disciplinary actions are dependent upon the severity of the offense and the compliance history of the permit holder. For more information on disciplinary processes, please see Verifying Permit Holder Compliance.

Note that Imposed sanctions may be posted publicly.

Student Expectations

All students who receive training from permitted instructors and schools are entitled to quality training in an environment that is safe, and is respectful of their well-being and dignity. Students must also act in a manner that enables quality and fairness in teaching.

For more information, please review the Driver Training Student Expectations.

Questions, concerns and complaints

If you have any questions regarding obtaining a permit, require information about the status of a permit, or would like to report a concern about a permitted driving school, please contact us. MPI will investigate any and all complaints received.

Manitoba Public Insurance, Driver Training Permit Unit

Telephone: 204-985-8063

Toll free: 1-800-665-2410 ext. 8063

Email: [email protected]

Additional Resources

Finding a driving school

Driving Instructor Permits

Driver training permits are governed by the Driver Training Schools, Driving Instructors and Training Vehicles Regulation 46/2006 under the Drivers and Vehicles Act (DVA).

A permit is required when a person is being paid to teach the theory or practice of driving. In order to teach, an instructor must be employed by a driving school and the school must use only vehicles with a permit for the purpose of training. Refer to the documents linked below for requirements to obtain the necessary permits.

An individual’s driving experience is one of the factors that determine eligibility for an instructor’s permit. If you suspect your driving record or driving history might not meet the requirements, please complete the pre-authorization prior to proceeding with the requirements.

Driving Instructor permits are valid for a period of up to one year, from April 1 to March 31 annually.

Applications and Renewals

To obtain a Driving Instructor permit, applicants must submit an application demonstrating their ability to meet the established criteria.

Expired permits cannot be renewed. Permit holders who wish to maintain their permit must apply for renewal prior to March 31 of each year. MPI will distribute renewal documents to permit holders annually in January, enabling permitted instructors to update their information as required.

For more information, please see the following:

Driving Instructor Responsibilities

Permitted Driving Instructors must act in accordance with all relevant legislation, including:

All permitted instructors must conduct business in a fair and appropriate manner. This includes complying with Manitoba Public Insurance’s driver training and testing policies and adhering to the Driver Training Professional Code of Conduct.

Driving Instructors offering Class 1 instruction have additional obligations which are defined in the Training Standards.

Non-Compliance

Driving Instructors who fail to meet their obligations may be subject to disciplinary action up to and including revocation of the permit. Disciplinary actions are dependent upon the severity of the offense and the compliance history of the permit holder. For more information on disciplinary procedures, please see Verifying Permit Holder Compliance.

Imposed sanctions may be posted publicly.

Questions, concerns and complaints

If you have any questions regarding obtaining a permit, require information about the status of a permit, or would like to report a concern about a permitted driving school, please contact us. MPI will investigate any and all complaints received.

Manitoba Public Insurance, Driver Training Permit Unit

Telephone: 204-985-8063

Toll free: 1-800-665-2410 ext. 8063

Email: [email protected]

In Manitoba, a Class 5 licence allows you to operate a passenger vehicle, a bus (not carrying passengers), a truck with two axles as well as a moped and Class 3 vehicle registered as a farm truck. Find out more here.

To obtain a Full Stage Class 5 licence, you must:

  • Be a minimum of 16 years of age. At age 15 1/2, an applicant may apply for a Class 5L licence if enrolled in MPI’s Driver Z Program, in a course that is currently in progress.
  • Establish your identification and register as a Manitoba Public Insurance customer.
  • Meet the required vision and medical standards.
  • Pass a knowledge test.
  • Complete the Learner Stage (minimum nine months).
  • Pass a road test.
  • Complete the Intermediate Stage (minimum 15 months).

Establishing your identity and registering as a customer

You will need to register as a customer before you can schedule your knowledge test appointment.

This will speed up the process because we can begin verifying your identification right away. That means your photo card can be processed without delay once you’ve passed the test.

You’ll also avoid any surprises or delays that could result on the day of the test if you don’t bring the right identification.

Find out how to establish your identity and register as a customer here.

Vision and medical standards

If you have a medical condition that may affect your ability to drive safely, you must inform Driver Fitness before taking the knowledge test:

Driver Fitness
Box 6300
Winnipeg Manitoba R3C 4A4
Phone: 204-985-1900 or toll-free 1-866-617-6676

If a medical report is required, it must be approved by Driver Fitness before you can take the knowledge test.

Those who fail to meet minimum vision standards, with or without corrective lenses, cannot obtain a driver’s licence. If corrective lenses are required for driving, this will be indicated on your licence.

Knowledge test

About the test

The Class 5 knowledge test assesses your knowledge of traffic laws, safe driving practices and recognition of road signs. To prepare for your knowledge test, review the Driver’s Handbook and take our driving quizzes.

Cost

A knowledge test costs $10.

Time limits and guidelines

There is a 30-minute time limit to complete a knowledge test. It is not an open book test. It is administered using a computer.

Cell phones and electronic devices are not allowed in the test area.

Languages

Knowledge tests are available in English and French. In addition, we provide knowledge testing in 28 other languages:

Amharic

Kurdish

Arabic

Lao

Bosnian

Low German

Simplified Chinese

Polish

Cree

Portuguese

Croatian

Punjabi

Czech

Romanian

Farsi

Russian

German (High)

Saulteaux

Hindi

Serbian

Hungarian

Spanish

Italian

Tagalog

Khmer

Ukrainian

Korean

Vietnamese

Please specify your language preference and needs when booking your appointment.

Next steps

After passing a knowledge test and meeting the visual and medical standards, you will be required to purchase a licence for $20, plus base driver premium charges of up to $45 and any applicable additional driver premium. With this licence, you will be in the Learner Stage of the GDL program for a minimum of nine months.

If you are in the GDL program and are not successful on your knowledge test, there is a seven-day waiting period before you may take the test again.

If you are outside of the GDL program, you can repeat a knowledge test the next working day.

Road test – About the test

Once you can perform the basic driving techniques, are at least 16 years of age and have held a Learner’s stage Class 5 licence for at least nine months, you can take a road test.

The Class 5 road test not only measures your ability to operate a Class 5 vehicle, it also identifies errors that need to be corrected. You will be required to operate your vehicle in typical traffic situations in a safe and legal manner. You will be judged on your driving skills. For a full list of driving skills and details on how to perform them safely on your test and beyond, please review your Driver’s Handbook.

It is not permissible to use any device to record a road test, road test route or make any recording (visual or audio) of any MPI employee, any person attending an MPI testing site or any individual taking an MPI-conducted driver examination.

Location

Road tests must be booked at your closest location. Winnipeg residents must take their Class 5 road test at Winnipeg Service Centre.

Cost

A road test costs $30.

Languages

All road tests are conducted in English or French. Examiners use straightforward and clear language when giving directions. To prepare for the road test, you should be familiar with the following terms:

  • Right turn
  • Left turn
  • Parallel park
  • Intersection
  • Stop

Only the examiner and the driver are allowed in the vehicle during the road test.

If you are not fluent in English, we recommend you bring an English speaking person with you to the appointment so they can help translate basic instructions and expectations before the road test begins. They can also translate the results after your road test is completed. Please note: This person can’t come with you on the road test.

Class 5 road test scoring

A class 5 road test will be discontinued as soon as one of the following occurs:

  • The driver fails the parallel parking exercise.
  • The driver causes interference with other road users.
  • The driver causes a collision with another road user or object.
  • The driver commits a serious traffic offence or dangerous action.
  • The driver has to be assisted by the driver examiner.
  • The driver accumulates 11 general errors on the road test.

Whenever possible, the parallel parking exercise will be performed at the start of the test.

As soon as one of these actions occurs, the driver examiner will direct the driver back to the service centre or mobile location. The driver must request, schedule, and pay for another road test to make another attempt.

Road test – Preparing for the test

Review the rules of the road

To pass your test, you need to be able to perform a number of driving skills and techniques, including:

For a full list of driving skills and details on how to perform them safely on your test and beyond, please review your Driver’s Handbook.

Top 10 driving tips

After analyzing the top high-risk driving behaviours shown during road tests, below are the top 10 tips to correct dangerous actions and keep our roads safe for all Manitobans:

1. Exceeding the posted speed limit (especially in school zones).

How to do it right

2. & 3. Unable to properly parallel park within three attempts or four minutes, and striking the poles within parallel parking.

How to do it right

4. & 5. Failing to make a proper left turn, and turning in front of oncoming traffic.

How to do it right

6. Proceeding from a stop sign when it’s not safe because of pedestrians or other vehicles.

How to do it right

7. Entering an intersection on a red light or entering on a late yellow light and failing to clear before the light turns red.

How to do it right

8. Stopping unnecessarily where there’s no stop sign or other traffic control device.

How to do it right

9. Failing to shoulder check and signal when changing lanes.

How to do it right

10. Failing to signal when leaving a parked position on a street.

How to do it right

Road test – Components of the test

Ensure you bring your valid 5L or 5A driver’s licence and a valid registration certificate for the vehicle you will be using, or your test will be cancelled.

Your driver’s licence cannot be expired or lapsed.

Take the time to review the restrictions (found listed on the back of your licence) carefully. You must comply with any and all of those listed on your licence at the time of your road rest. If you feel any are incorrect, you must have them corrected at a MPI Service Centre prior to your road test appointment. It can’t be corrected at the time of your appointment.

You must supply a vehicle in good working order and a Vehicle Registration Certificate, confirming the vehicle is properly registered and insured. The vehicle must have adequate seating for the driver examiner. Failure to do so will result in the cancellation of the road test with your fees not being refunded. Road tests will not be conducted in infrastructure or agricultural equipment.

There are five parts to a road test in Manitoba:

1. Greeting

You must check in 15 minutes before your scheduled appointment time. If you fail to do so, your test may be cancelled. You will need to pay to rebook your test.

At some service centres, you may be asked to participate in a virtual driver assessment. This pilot assessment will add an additional 15-minutes to your road test appointment.

You must have a supervising driver with you when checking in for your road test appointment. This individual will not be permitted in the car during the test with you but must be present when you check in.

After you check in and complete the virtual driver assessment, a driver examiner calls you, introduces him or herself, checks your documents, and asks you to sign the road test sheet.

You will then proceed to your vehicle together.

2. Vehicle check

The examiner will ask you to get in and start the vehicle.

He/she checks the vehicle to ensure it meets safety standards. If there are vehicle deficiencies, the road test may be cancelled.

3. Explanation of the test

The examiner will explain how the test will be conducted. This is your only opportunity to ask questions. The examiner will not answer questions about the rules of the road while on the test. So, if you are unsure about anything, ask at this stage.

4. On-road portion

Test applicants will be asked to demonstrate the following skills throughout the testing period:

  • Vehicle condition and equipment: The examiner will ask you to check basic operating features of your vehicle.
  • Vehicle control: You must demonstrate the ability to control the vehicle when starting, stopping, steering, shifting, signaling, backing, parking and turning.
  • You will have four minutes or three attempts to parallel park within the 1.85 m by 7.5 m space. Each attempt consists of three movements of the vehicle (backwards, forward and then backward again). You must successfully park within 18 inches (or 46 cm) from the curb, without going over it or hitting a pole.
  • Rules of the road: You must demonstrate full knowledge of all rules of the road.
  • Observation: You must demonstrate the ability to observe all relevant conditions around the vehicle by using the mirrors correctly. You must check behind and in the blind spots and must look well ahead to anticipate changing traffic situations and conditions.

5. Explanation of the test results

Once the road test is complete, the examiner will review your test results with you and answer any questions you may have.

Next steps

After passing a road test, you will move to the Intermediate Stage of the GDL Program for a minimum of 15 months. After that period with no infractions, you will earn a Full Class 5 licence.

After an unsuccessful road test, there is a 14-day waiting period before you may take the test again. You can schedule your appointment for any time after this waiting period is over.

After four unsuccessful road test attempts, you are required to take a minimum of two hours of professional instruction from a driving school with a permit from MPI before booking a fifth road test.

A signed Driving Instruction Verification form, including the driving instructor’s permit number, must be presented to an Autopac agent in order to pay for and book the fifth attempt. An additional two hours of driving instruction will be required prior to each additional attempt.

Please note: All driving schools must have a valid permit from MPI. To ensure a school has a valid permit, customers should ask the school or instructor to see their permit or contact the Permit Unit at 204-985-8063 or [email protected].

How to book

Appointments

Most knowledge and road tests are by appointment only. Visit an Autopac agent or use our website to pay for your test and schedule your appointment. You can schedule your appointment 60 days in advance. Walk-in knowledge tests are available at Cityplace (2nd floor) in Winnipeg on weekdays from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. and 1- 4 p.m. (For walk-in testing, customers must first visit a Service Centre or Autopac agent to purchase the test, and then attend the walk-in location with proof of purchase and valid ID.)

Minors require parental consent, provided at an Autopac agent or MPI Service Centre, to purchase services online.

Both knowledge and road tests are conducted during weekdays only (with the exception of holidays). Saturday appointments are available in Winnipeg.

Your Autopac agent can provide you with details of available appointments at any testing location. See Mobile Test Unit locations and schedules for customers outside of Winnipeg.

Please note: You will need to give written consent for another individual, including a parent or legal guardian, to purchase and book a road test on your behalf. This requirement is dictated by The Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (FIPPA) which prohibits us from releasing any information about another customer without their written consent.

Location

Road tests must be booked at your closest location. Winnipeg residents must take their Class 5 road test at Winnipeg Service Centre.

Rescheduling or cancelling your appointment

If you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment, you must notify your Autopac agent or change your appointment online at least 24 hours in advance. Otherwise, you will forfeit the service and any applicable fees.

Driver Z login

Current students: access your current Driver Z account with your User ID and password here.

Program overview

Driver Z is driver education for the next generation.

Using a mix of online and in-car learning, Driver Z gives students the tools, knowledge and confidence to improve their driving ability, reduce risk, and prevent collisions.

Online

In addition to in-car training, students are required to access Driver Z online – either on a smartphone or computer – to log in, complete course work and track their progress. The site hosts interactive eLearning activities, instructional videos and an online practice log.

What else is new and exciting? The program has been gamified! Driver Z is organized on a map that spans six zones. Complete eLessons, attend virtual classes and practice with a supervising driver to progress through the map and earn points and stars as you go. As you rack up the points, you unlock progress badges.

How do I register?

If you’re at least 15 ½ years old, you can register for Driver Z.

The Driver Z registration process has three key steps – visit an Autopac agent or MPI Service Centre to get set up as an MPI customer, pay, and register for a course.

To save time and make the registration process as smooth as possible, parents/guardians and students can complete two of three steps in advance of choosing a course date – getting set up a customer and paying for the course.

Once these two steps are complete, parents/guardians or students can register for available Driver Z registration courses monthly in two ways – visiting your Autopac broker or an MPI Service Centre or calling MPI’s Contact Centre at 204-985-7000 or toll-free 204-665-2410.

For more information about our monthly registration process and the current courses available, visit our Course Finder page.

Customer set-up

A parent or guardian must be with the student at the Autopac agent or MPI Service Centre to become an MPI customer, or they can sign a Parental Consent Form and the teen can go on their own.

To get set up as a customer, you will need to bring identification. Use our Proving My identity tool to find the documents you need, or bring one of the combinations below:

Option 1

A Vital Statistics issued birth certificate + one documents* showing where you live + a signed Declaration of Guarantor of Proof of Identity form, which is available on the MPI website.

Option 2

Canadian passport + two documents* showing where you live.

Option 3

Certificate of Indian Status + birth certificate + two documents* showing where you live.

Option 4

Secure Certificate of Indian Status + two documents* showing where you live.

Option 5

Foreign passport (with acceptable evidence showing entitlement to be in Canada) + two documents* showing where you live.

Option 6

Canadian passport + one document* showing where you live + a signed Declaration of Guarantor of Proof of Identity form, which is available on the MPI website.

* a bank statement, income tax statement or confirmation letter from your employer dated within 90 days. For a complete list of acceptable documents, visit establishing your identity.

Having trouble finding two address documents?
A Guarantor Declaration can help. A Guarantor is someone who can verify your identity. To act as a Guarantor, a person must be a Canadian citizen residing in Canada, have known you personally for at least two years and work in one of the occupations listed on the Declaration of Guarantor of Proof of Identity form (e.g., teacher, principal, doctor, etc.).

Don’t forget: you will need to provide an email address when registering for Driver Z. Parent or guardians will also need to access Driver Z using an email. Student email addresses cannot be the same as their parent or guardian’s email address that they plan on using as a co-pilot for Driver Z.

Choosing a course

Once you are set up as a customer and the student is 15 1/2, visit our Course Finder to view which courses you are eligible for. Course Finder will display details on when you can view upcoming courses and when the next registration date is for Driver Z.

Please remember that students must be present when registering in-person for a Driver Z course or if you are registering over the phone they must be on the call. A parent or guardian cannot register for you.

What to expect

Within 31 days of the course start date, you will receive an email with instructions to log on to the Driver Z online application and begin required pre-learning activities (Zone 1, activities 1-29) before Kick-Off.

Zone 1: Electric Avenue

Cruise through Electric Avenue before the first virtual class Kick-Off. Log in, complete all 29 online activities and set up your co-pilot. This zone may take up to 12 hours to complete.

Zone 2 & 3: From Easy Street to Road Sage

Attend the Kick-Off virtual class with your co-pilot, attend 20 hours of virtual class learning and keep up with your eLessons!

You will write your knowledge test in class five. If you pass, you need to purchase your Class 5L licence and begin in-car practice lessons (good luck!).

Zone 4: Highway to Help

On the Highway to Help, you’ve passed your knowledge test and are attending instructor-led in-car training (14 hours) while continuing to keep up with online requirements between lessons (2 hours).

Zone 5: Life in the Slow Lane

It’s all you! Complete at least 45 hours of in-car practice time (which must be verified by a co-pilot). If you go beyond 45 hours of in-car practice, you earn twice the points for each hour!

Zone 6: Boulevard of Dreams

This is it – the final stretch! The more you practice, the more points you get. As you do, you rise on the leaderboard and level up, collecting badges. Then, at seven months after the knowledge test and with at least 45 hours of verified practice time, you are eligible to book a readiness assessment with your instructor.

For information about driver testing, including knowledge and road tests, as well as vision and medical requirements, please visit the Testing for your Class 5 licence page.

For more information about obtaining your Class 5 licence, including the Graduated Driver Licensing restrictions in each stage, visit the Get a passenger vehicle class 5 licence page.

Why practice is so important

Applying what you’ve learned in a practical setting will help you build your confidence behind the wheel and reduce your risk as a novice driver. During the program, you must complete a minimum of 45 hours of practice time; we recommend you acquire 100 hours of in-car practice time.

Enlist a safe driving team to help you reach your goal! Everyone wants to see you succeed and become a safe driver. The online application allows you to invite up to eight co-pilots to help you achieve the minimum required amount of in-car practice time.

The role of co-pilots and supervising drivers

We all work together to help young drivers gain the skills and knowledge they need behind the wheel. Think of it as a safe driving team.

To successfully complete Driver Z, you will need a safe driving support team which includes at least one co-pilot and a supervising driver (and yes, they can be the same person).

Supervising driver: someone who sits next to you while you acquire practice time. This individual must have held their Class 5 Full stage (5F) driver’s licence for at least three years.

Co-pilot: someone who will log on to Driver Z (either on a computer or phone) to verify your practice time online. Your co-pilot must be an MPI customer. You can invite up to eight co-pilots to share the responsibility. Co-pilots must complete eLessons 1-6 online.

FOR STUDENTS AND CO-PILOTS – ASSIGMMENT BEFORE YOUR FIRST VIRTUAL CLASS

Students – Before Kick-Off, you must:

  1. Set up your Driver Z account. (Check your email for instructions).
  2. Complete Electric Avenue (Zone 1). Don’t leave this to last minute – traveling Electric Avenue may take 12 hours to complete.
  3. Set up co-pilots through your Driver Z account (you can have up to eight). Electric Avenue (Activity 2) teaches you how to do this.
  4. Make sure your co-pilots complete their own Electric Avenue (Activities 1 through 6).
  5. Bring one of your co-pilots to Kick-Off.

Co-pilots – Before Kick-Off, you must:

  1. Make sure you accept the email invitation to participate in the program (students will send invitations by email through their Driver Z account).
  2. Complete eLessons 1-6 (can take up to three hours).
  3. Check your Driver Z account often!

We’ll send emails and messages to your Driver Z account with important course-related information. Expect your first email within 31 days of the course start date!

Helpful resources

Check out our Driver Z Quick Tips reference for more information including a visual timeline of what to expect and how students and parents can best prepare for a student’s first class.

Technical support

If you’re registered for Driver Z and are having issues accessing your account, review the Support Guide or contact MPI at 204-985-7000.

Additional program-specific support is available on Driver Z online.

Issue: Content Review Activities not being marked completed

The conditions that must be met to complete a Content Review activity is that you must:

  1. Click all clickable links, watch all videos, etc.
  2. View ALL content on the Activity screen – you must scroll to bottom of the page (scrollbar must hit bottom)

This shouldn’t be an issue if the device is large enough to display all content on the screen without needing a scrollbar (i.e. desktop computer or laptop).

Smaller mobile devices (i.e. iPhone or iPod) may not display all content and will require the user to scroll to the bottom of the page.

Example: Zone 2, Activity 14

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In Manitoba, a Class 6 (Motorcycle) licence allows you to operate a motorcycle. Learn more here.

To obtain a Full Class 6 licence, you must:

  • Hold a valid licence of any other class and be at least 16 years of age.
  • Pass a knowledge test and meet the vision and medical standards.
  • Successfully complete an approved motorcycle training course.
  • Complete the Learner Stage (minimum 9 months).
  • Pass a road test.
  • Complete the Intermediate Stage (minimum 15 months).

Knowledge test

About the test

A knowledge test on the safe operation of a motorcycle is required to obtain a Class 6 (Motorcycle) licence. To prepare for your test, review the Motorcycle Handbook.

This is not an open book test and it is administered using a computer. Cell phones and other electronic devices are not allowed in the test area. Only one knowledge test is allowed per day.

Languages

All knowledge tests are conducted in English or French. Specify your language preference when booking your appointment.

Cost

A knowledge test costs $10.

Next steps

If you are in the Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) program, there is a seven-day waiting period to retake the knowledge test if you are unsuccessful.

If you are outside of GDL, you are eligible to repeat a knowledge test the next working day.

Once you have passed the knowledge test, you will be issued a Class 6M (Motorcycle Training Course) licence that will allow you take a motorcycle training course only. Learn more about this stage.

Motorcycle training course

Prior to obtaining a Motorcycle Learner Licence, first-time motorcycle applicants must complete an approved motorcycle training course.

A motorcycle training course is an approved one-day practical course that will provide you with the basic skills required to operate a motorcycle. It is a user-pay course offered at designated locations throughout the province. Contact your nearest Autopac agent or MPI for more information on the recognized motorcycle training courses available.

Next steps

Once you have passed a Motorcycle Training Course, you will be issued a Class 6L (Learner) licence. Time spent in the M stage does not count toward the nine-month Learner stage. Learn more about this stage.

Road test

About the test

The road test not only measures your ability to operate a motorcycle, it also identifies errors that need to be corrected. There are two steps in this process:

  1. Identify all motorcycle controls, describe their functions and demonstrate their use.
  2. Operate your motorcycle in typical traffic situations in a safe and legal manner.

You must supply a motorcycle in good working order and produce a Vehicle Registration Certificate confirming the vehicle is properly registered and insured. Failure to do so will result in cancellation of the road test with your fees not being refunded.

To prepare for your road test, review the Motorcycle Handbook.

It is not permissible to use any device to record a road test, road test route or make any recording (visual or audio) of any MPI employee, any person attending an MPI testing site or any individual taking an MPI-conducted driver examination.

Languages

All road tests are conducted in English or French. Specify your language preference when booking your appointment.

Cost

A road test costs $30.

Next steps

Once you have passed the road test, you will be issued a Class 6I (Intermediate) licence. Learn more about this stage and the steps to obtaining a Full (F) Stage licence.

If you fail the road test, there is a 14-day waiting period to retake it.

How to book

Appointments

The motorcycle testing season runs from May 1 to Oct. 30. However, if weather conditions permit, road tests may be scheduled sooner or later.

You can schedule your test appointment up to eight weeks in advance. All applicants are subject to a nine-month learning period before they are eligible to take a motorcycle road test.

Most knowledge and road tests are by appointment only. Visit an Autopac agent or use our website to pay for your test and schedule your test appointment. Walk-in knowledge tests are available at Cityplace (2nd floor) in Winnipeg on weekdays from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. and 1- 4 p.m. (For walk-in testing, customers must first visit a Service Centre or Autopac agent to purchase the test, and then attend the walk-in location with proof of purchase and valid ID.)

Minors require parental consent, provided at an Autopac agent or MPI Service Centre, to purchase services online. They are not eligible to book Class 6 knowledges tests online, but can book the subsequent road test.

Both knowledge and road tests are conducted during weekdays only (with the exception of holidays).

Your Autopac agent can provide you with details of available appointments at any testing location. See Mobile Test Unit locations and schedules for customers outside of Winnipeg.

Please note: You will need to give written consent for another individual, including a parent or legal guardian, to purchase and book a road test on your behalf. This requirement is dictated by The Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (FIPPA) which prohibits us from releasing any information about another customer without their written consent.

Note: Customers whose Class 6 road tests were cancelled during the labour interruption will not be rescheduled. Impacted customers will be able to either get a refund for their booking, or their payment can remain on their account and the customer can book a new appointment in spring 2024.

Rescheduling or cancelling your appointment

If you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment, you must notify your Autopac agent or change your appointment online at least 24 hours in advance. Otherwise, you will forfeit the service and any applicable fees.

Your photo and more

Photo

A key part of your licence is your photograph. So when you get your first licence, you need to get your picture taken at any Autopac agent or at one of our MPI Service Centre locations.

Class

Under Class Stage, a number from 1 to 6 shows the Class of licence you have.

One or more of the following letters shows the stage of GDL you’re in:

L – Learner

I – Intermediate

F – Full

A – Authorized Instruction

M – Motorcycle Training Course only

Driver’s licence restrictions

A driver’s licence restriction is a limitation that may be placed on a driver’s licence. You must comply with any restrictions when you are operating a motor vehicle. Any driver’s licence restrictions you may have will be displayed on the back of your licence.

The possible restrictions/codes are shown in the table below:

Driver Licence Restriction/Code Table

Restriction

Code

Corrective Lenses

1

Power Steering

2

Maximum Speed of 70 km/h

3

Automatic Transmission

4

Daytime Only

5

Power Brakes

6

Hand Controls

7

Operate Mopeds Only

8

Side Mirrors

9

Commercial Class – Canada Only

W

Driver’s Licence Addendum

X

Driver’s licence addendum

A driver’s licence addendum is required when a driver has conditions on his or her licence, and these conditions and their descriptions exceed the print space on the licence. If you have been issued a driver’s licence addendum it must be carried with your driver’s licence (temporary or permanent) at all times by law.

Donor card

Organ and tissue donation saves lives. If you want to record your intent to donate organs and tissue, please register at www.signupforlife.ca – Manitoba’s online organ and tissue registry.

The blue paper cards are no longer an option.

If you have any questions about organ or tissue donation to the FAQs section on www.signupforlife.ca.

About the renewal process

With our easy and convenient five-year licences and policies, you’ll only need to visit an Autopac agent once every five years, unless you want to change or cancel your policy between renewals or you change your name, address or other personal information on your driver’s licence.

However, you still pay for your driver’s licence and vehicle insurance every year. In years between renewals (reassessment years), you will receive an annual statement of account, telling you what you owe.

In your reassessment years or renewal year, you can choose to pay:

  • online with VISA or MasterCard (see list of qualifying payments)
  • online or by telephone through your financial institution (you’ll need your customer number)
  • in person with cash, cheque , debit, VISA or MasterCard wherever Autopac is sold

Remember, you must visit an Autopac agent to change or cancel your driver’s licence or vehicle insurance. It will not automatically lapse after one year. It will remain in effect and you will be charged for it.

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