Published by Programme B
Driving along the picturesque stretches in Nova Scotia happens to be a pleasure for car owners. The driving rules in this province are not much different from those in other parts of the country. Although driving in Canada is straightforward, it pays to stick to the norms.
To help you adhere to the laws, we have discussed the Nova Scotia driving rules in this article. First, you need to complete the formalities like licensing and vehicle registration. Next, you should consult one of the reputed insurance brokers to purchase an affordable policy and cover your car.
Visit https://www.surex.com/Insurance/auto-car/nova-scotia to find affordable deals and packages for car insurance in Nova Scotia. The professionals will help you narrow down the insurance preferences, comparing quotes and recommending suitable policies.
Driving rules for motorists in Nova Scotia
Here are a few driving rules in Nova Scotia you need to be mindful of:
- While passing on the left, stick to the right side of the road, just like any other province in Canada.
- Overlooking red lights or using your stop signs can fetch you a ticket.
- Pedestrians on the road always reserve the right of the way.
- Keep your eyes open for signboards to know the maximum permissible speed on the road. Remember, roads in Nova Scotia have photo radar detectors to monitor speed limits.
- In rural areas in Canada, the statutory speed limit is 80 Km. per hour, while it is 50 Km. per hour in urban areas. When you drive in Nova Scotia, stick to these limits on the road.
- As a mandatory norm, use a seat belt while driving your car.
- Unless your mobile phone is hands-free, you should refrain from using cell phones while driving in Nova Scotia.
- Often, drivers are not allowed to cross private properties on motor vehicles.
- As a driver, you must proceed with caution or even stop when you find school buses stopped ahead.
- Drunken driving is prohibited in Nova Scotia. Although the permissible level of alcohol in the blood varies across different provinces, try not to land in such a mess in the first place. It is a criminal offense, and you can end up paying higher premiums. In Nova Scotia, the permissible alcohol level in blood is 80 mg of alcohol in 100 ml of blood.
- Unless specifically posted, drivers can take right-hand turns at red lights.
- Keep your vehicle registration, insurance, and driving license handy when you drive in Nova Scotia. Failing to furnish these documents to the Police can lead to a hefty fine.
Obtaining your driving license in Nova Scotia
Now that you are aware of the Nova Scotia driving rules, let’s take a look at other legal requirements. As a new resident in Nova Scotia, obtaining a driving license is imperative within the first three months of moving to the province. The Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations carry out the driver examinations and licensing.
Usually, the process of licensing takes place at Nova Scotia’s local registry office. Before the road tests and written tests, you need to shell out the necessary fees. The authorities will ask you to furnish two pieces of identification. Besides, you need to provide proof that shows your date of birth and station of immigration.
Classes of driving license in Nova Scotia
In Nova Scotia, you have several classes of license. Focus on Classes 7 and 5 if you aren’t driving large passenger or heavy goods vehicles. If you are a minor, you can seek parental consent and apply for a learner’s license (Class 7) once you are 16.
After obtaining your Class 7 license in Nova Scotia, you can go for the road test. The examiner ensures that the car you drive is roadworthy. At this time, you need to furnish the following documents:
- Driver examination receipt
- Vehicle permit
- Vehicle insurance documents
- Your driving license
Once you clear this road test, you will receive your Class 5 license. This would remain valid for the next five years, after which you have to renew the same. With this license, you get the liberty to drive in any location in Nova Scotia.
Exchanging your driving license in Nova Scotia
If you are a resident of the US or any other province in Canada, you can get your driving license exchanged in Nova Scotia. For this, you don’t need to undergo any type of road test.
For people with other nationalities, a road test might sometimes be required before you get the permit to drive in Nova Scotia. Even if you fail the road test, you can appear for the same the next day.
Registering your vehicle in Nova Scotia
In Nova Scotia, you need to get a vehicle certificate registration to prove that you own the car. Besides, you need to collect your vehicle permit to get your license plates.
If you purchase a used car in Nova Scotia, the first owner signs the vehicle registration certificate. This way, the ownership gets transferred to you. Being the new owner, you need to pay a fee to the Registry of Motor Vehicles. The larger or heavier the vehicle, the more would be this fee.
The vehicle permits in Nova Scotia remain valid for two years. Also, remember to get the annual vehicle safety inspection, which is mandatory here.
Important Nova Scotia driving rules you should know about — Endnote
In Nova Scotia, you should have property damage and public liability insurance coverage worth at least $200,000. Unless you insure your car, you won’t be able to register the vehicle.
Apart from mandatory insurance coverage, experts also advise owners to cover their cars with optional policies. These include comprehensive coverage, collision coverage, depreciation waiver, and others. Based on your requirements, you can customize your auto insurance policy.
Like other provinces in Canada, you need adequate automobile insurance coverage to drive in Nova Scotia. Regardless of whether you buy a new or used car, reach out to top insurance brokers at an online insurance brokerage. The experts will narrow down the options from top insurers and recommend the best policies.
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