Fredericton — It seems the first time didn’t “take” when most Frederictonians learned how to drive, so starting this winter, all licensed drivers will have to take a new “driver’s re-education” training course by spring 2027 for it to remain valid.
Police Chief Gary Forward said the new test will be much more intensive than the one we all took when we were 16.
“It will be more challenging, but will also focus strongly on the basics, such as signalling. If you want to turn left or right, you must use your turn signal first — this is brand-new information for many Fredericton drivers.”
Forward said an important portion of the course will cover reasons to avoid driving under the influence.
“Drivers in this city currently couldn’t care less about the law when it comes to impaired driving,” he explained. “We’re going to reintroduce the concept of sobriety, and make them practice driving with no beer, wine, weed — absolutely no drugs at all, in fact — in their system. It will be a new experience and possibly an eye-opening one. They may find out they’re better sober drivers than they realized.”
The practical part of the test will involve merging onto the Westmorland Street Bridge and the Princess Margaret Bridge, entering roundabouts in the correct direction, and even the dreaded zipper merge. It will also cover street parking, parallel parking, four-way stops, school zones, speedbumps and much more.
“I usually just close my eyes, gun it and hope for the best when I merge onto the bridge,” said local driver Matt Gesner of Brookside Drive. “I don’t have time to wait around all day for an opening. And I never use my turn signal since it’s no one else’s business where I’m going, is it? I thought it was a free country!”
Regent Street resident Michelle Santos said she gave up on learning the rules as soon as the Smythe Street/Route 8 roundabout opened. “I knew I’d never be able to master that one so I just thought, whatever — let’s see what happens!” Santos caused an accident uptown last weekend when she suddenly stopped on Prospect Street to get a closer look at a sign advertising discounts at Bulk Barn.
The two-week course will also include reminders about driving on the correct side of the road, in the correct lane.
“Too often we see people just driving up the left side of the street. I’m not even sure how it happens,” said instructor Jamie Gallant, who helped develop the new and improved testing process.
“And for the love of god, people — no more driving directly into the side of buildings! I can’t believe I have to say this.”