The Northwest Territories road test
The Class 5 practical examination, usually called the road test, is the step from learner to probationary driver in the Northwest Territories. It checks that you can drive safely and legally in everyday traffic, without help.
In the NWT there is only one road test in the GDL program. The later move from Class 5P to a full Class 5 does not need another test.
By the end of this topic you can
- You can check that you are eligible to book the road test.
- You can prepare a vehicle that will pass the examiner's safety check.
- You can list the skills the examiner assesses.
- You can avoid the most common reasons for failing.
What you need to know and understand
- You must be at least 16 and have completed the 12-month learner stage.
- Book online or at a Driver and Vehicle office and pay the fee in advance.
- Bring your receipt and your valid Class 7 licence, and wear corrective lenses if you need them.
- You supply a two-axle vehicle, not a motorcycle, in safe working order.
- Unless it is stopped early, the test lasts at least 45 minutes.
- Only you and the examiner may be in the vehicle; no passengers or pets.
- You may take only one practical exam per day.
Getting your car test-ready
The examiner checks the vehicle before you start and will refuse the test if it is not mechanically safe. A vehicle that must display a dangerous goods placard cannot be used. Make sure yours has:
- Valid plate, registration and insurance.
- Working headlights, brake lights, signal lights and horn.
- A working speedometer, brakes and parking brake.
- A clear windshield and working wipers, safe tires and mirrors.
- Working driver and passenger doors, seats and seatbelts, and a sound exhaust and muffler.
- Enough fuel for the whole test.
What the examiner watches
The examiner will never ask you to do anything unsafe or illegal, only normal everyday driving tasks.
- Finding and using the vehicle controls.
- Smooth, controlled driving and good speed management.
- Turn signals or hand signals, and left and right turns.
- Correct use of lanes and reversing.
- Right-of-way judgement with vehicles and pedestrians.
- Parallel, hill and angle parking.
- Obeying signs and signals and showing good driving habits throughout.
Why tests are failed, and what happens next
The manual lists lack of skill and control, being unable to do a manoeuvre, difficulty obeying traffic laws, too many errors, a traffic violation and any unsafe action as reasons for failing. The test is also discontinued if you cannot finish within the time allowed.
At the end, the examiner goes over your errors and explains how to fix them. If you need to retake it, book another appointment when you are ready and pay the fee again. Check the current fee with Driver and Vehicle Services when booking. The deeper guide to the NWT knowledge test and road test has a practice checklist.
Common mistakes
- Skipping shoulder checks before lane changes, turns and pulling away. Mirrors alone are not enough.
- Rolling through stop signs. Come to a full stop at the correct point every time.
- Bringing a car with a burnt-out brake light or cracked windshield. Check it the day before.
- Speeding in a 30 km/h school or playground zone during the test route.
- Hesitating too long at a safe gap, or forcing into an unsafe one. Practise judging gaps.
Test yourself: The Northwest Territories road test
Answer each question, then read the explanation. Questions come in a random order each time.
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Sources: Driver's Manual (Basic): a guide to safely operate cars and light trucks, revised August 2022, Government of the Northwest Territories, Department of Infrastructure, Chapter 1; Book, cancel, or rebook a written or practical examination, Government of the Northwest Territories, Driver and Vehicle Services. Independent guide, not affiliated with any licensing agency. Always check the latest official rules with your province or territory.