Preparing for your Driver’s License Road Test: A Guide

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Are you gearing up for your driver's license road test? It's a significant step in your driving journey; being well-prepared is crucial.  This is not just about mastering the vehicle's controls or memorizing the rules of the road; it's also about building the confidence and composure needed to navigate real-world driving scenarios. Your success in the test reflects your readiness to drive safely and responsibly on public roads, making it an essential step towards driving independence. This guide will walk you through key aspects to focus on as you prepare for the big day. And remember, when you're ready to…

Renew Your Driver’s License Early Before it Expires

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Renewing your driver's license in Alberta before it expires is a matter of legal necessity and a critical step in maintaining mobility and independence.  This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the renewal process, highlighting the significance of doing it on time and the various options available, including the increasingly popular online renewal methods we offer at Riverbend Registry.   Why Renew Your Driver’s License Early?  Renewing your driver's license early is advantageous, especially if you're planning extended travel outside your province, facing life events that conflict with the expiry date, or relocating, where early renewal can avoid additional…

Keeping the Roads Safe This Canada Day

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As we approach the spirited celebrations of Canada Day, it's crucial to consider an often-overlooked aspect of the festivities – road safety. While we all eagerly anticipate the fireworks, the barbeques, and the shared sense of national pride, we must also prioritize safe and responsible driving. And in alignment with this commitment, Riverbend Registries has put together a set of recommendations and services to help you navigate the roads safely and slowly this Canada Day. Drive Safe and Slow Firstly, let's delve into why driving safely and slowly is essential, particularly during a major holiday like Canada Day. The roads…

Ace the Alberta Road Test: 5 Helpful Strategies and Preparation Tips

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You've spent countless hours behind the wheel, meticulously learning the rules of the road and honing your driving skills. Now, the time has come for the ultimate test of your driving abilities – booking your Alberta Road Test. Preparing for the road test involves more than simply practicing driving. It's about creating a comprehensive approach that includes understanding test expectations, refining your skills, and becoming familiar with common mistakes to avoid. Riverbend Registry provides helpful 5 strategies and preparation tips to ensure you get your Alberta Driver's License! Know the Expectations Understanding what will be evaluated during the road test…

Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) Changes in Alberta

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All new drivers in Alberta, regardless of age, are part of the Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) program. GDL is a system used in many jurisdictions to gradually introduce new drivers to the rules of the road and help them gain experience in a safe and controlled manner. The program typically involves stages or levels that new drivers must progress through before obtaining a full driver's license in Alberta. But did you know that as of April 1st, 2023, drivers in Alberta are no longer required to take the advanced road test to exit the GDL program? To learn more, Riverbend…

Driving Safety Tips, Every Driver Needs to Know

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Safety should be the number one concern for every licensed driver in Alberta. But in 2023, we're more distracted than ever with everything mobile and on the go! Driving irresponsibly is causing drivers in Alberta can get their license suspended, so it’s crucial to know the basic safety rules of driving a car. Riverbend Registry provides some safety tips every driver needs to know. Defensive Driving A licensed driver in Alberta could benefit from learning the defensive driving rules. A few of these accident-preventing techniques include: Keeping a 2-second distance between you and the car in front of you, in…

Cancelling Your Vehicle Registration in Alberta

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Some of the most common reasons car owners need to cancel their vehicle registration are a stolen plate, or they’re moving out of the province or country. To cancel your vehicle registration, you’ll need to fill out a Licence Plate/Parking Placard Cancellation Form and visit the registry or send your cancellation request by mail. If you’re replacing your existing vehicle with a new one, you are not required to cancel your vehicle registration. If the registration is under your name, you can transfer the registration and licence plate to your new car. What You Need to Cancel Your Vehicle Registration…

Vehicle Registration Plates: What You Need to Know

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You'll want to understand vehicle registration plates and which service you need when it comes to your daily vehicle, sports cars, import, antique, or farm vehicles. As of April 2016, the Alberta government no longer sends reminder letters to car owners for vehicle registration renewals. You’ll find yourself paying for unnecessary dues and fines if you have an expired plate or vehicle registration. Fortunately, you can sign up online to receive a vehicle registration renewal reminder through email or text message. Here is everything you need to know about vehicle registration. What You'll Need to Get a Licence Plate To…

Happy Holidays From Riverbend Registry!

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The team at Riverbend Registry wishes you and your loved ones a Happy Holidays and an abundant New Year! We want to thank you for your business and continued support. As an Edmonton-run company, we’re proud to support Alberta’s economy and serve our local community with all their registration and licensing needs. This time of year is busy with festivities, and it can be easy to forget registration renewal or overlook an expired license. The last thing you want is to get pulled over with an expired vehicle registration. With an increase in check stops knowing everyone will be buzzing…

Changes Are Coming For Driver Licensing in Alberta

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To get your full Class 5 driver’s licence in Alberta, new drivers must go through the Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) program that was first introduced in Alberta in 2003. New drivers must hold a Class 7 licence (also referred to as a learner’s licence) and adhere to the following conditions: Must have a fully licensed person seated next to them while driving No driving between midnight and 5AM Have no drugs or alcohol in their system while driving Drivers can get a probationary Class 5 licence after a year with their learner’s licence, pass a basic road test, and meet…

Registering a Business in Edmonton? Here’s What You Need

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You don’t need to be a large business in order to register as a corporation. Whether you operate a team of 50 or you have a small business with only one employee, you can complete a corporate registry and enjoy the benefits of being a registered business in Alberta. While there are differing provincial policies, corporate registration in Edmonton typically involves searching for and reserving a name, providing business information, and a fee. We go into more detail about the type of documents you need to register a business in Edmonton below. The benefits of registering a business By definition,…

Most Common Driver’s Road Test Mistakes to Avoid

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You’ve passed the written test, received your Learner’s License, perhaps signed up for driving lessons, and put in hours of practice - you’re finally ready to book a road test in Edmonton! Completing and passing a road test is the final step in Alberta’s driver licensing process. Understandably, the days leading up to your driver’s road test can be a little nerve-racking. Of course, you want to do well and pass. By now, you likely have a good grasp of proper driving practices and road etiquette, and you might be reading this article to help prep for the day. While…

Personal Property Services In Edmonton

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Did you know that security interests, liens, writs of enforcement, bankruptcy registrations, and other items that fall under personal property must be registered on the Personal Property Registry (PPR) System? The PPR database is used by financial institutions and creditors to obtain credit information on debtors. In some cases, it is also utilized by the government for evidence that can support the seizure and enforced restrictions on personal property.  Property services in Edmonton allow residents to identify whether that property is subject to another registration before buying or accepting it. For example, you can search whether there is a lien…

Where To Find Trade Name Registration Services In Edmonton

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If you own a business in Alberta, it will need to be registered and legal - regardless of how small your business is. There are 4 types of business names registered under the Partnership Act: a sole proprietorship (trade name), partnership, limited partnership, and limited liability partnership. In this article, we focus on registering a trade name and what you need to know about trade name registration services in Edmonton. Why register a trade name? Also known as a sole proprietorship, a trade name is used when an individual operates a business under a name other than their own personal…

When And Where To Renew Your Vehicle Registration In Alberta

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In Alberta, it’s illegal to drive an unregistered vehicle and can lead to a minimum fine of $230. The purpose of vehicle registration or registration renewal is to let the province know that you legally own the vehicle and for the province to track vehicles on the road. You’ll need to renew your registration before or on the date your current vehicle registration expires.  Quick facts about vehicle registration in Alberta Alberta does not send reminder letters - As of April 1, 2016, the Alberta government no longer sends registration renewal reminders. It can be easy to forget when your…

Land Title Services In Edmonton

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The government of Alberta holds and maintains Land Titles records that are accessible to the public. Land titles have important information such as the current owner and outstanding registered interests in the land like builders’ liens, easements, and more.  At Riverbend Registry, if you’re the sole owner, tenancy-in-common, or have a joint tenancy, we can perform a land title search by legal land description, land identification number code (LINC), or street address. You’ll be given a copy of the land title for a reasonable fee which will be sent to you by regular mail. Our land title services include: Surface…

These Registration Services Are a Necessity for Alberta Business Owners

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Are you a business owner? Or are you in the process of starting your own company? If so, then ensuring the legalities of your venture is paramount. This entails getting on top of such matters like land titles, insurance coverage, corporate registration and any other registry services that are pertinent to the smooth operations of your business. If this sounds like you, then we here at Riverbend Registry can help. We provide a plethora of registration services in Alberta to ensure your company is on the right side of the law. Keep reading to learn more about our services and…

Complete Vehicle Registration Services in Edmonton

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Did you know that registering your car is legally required in Alberta? The penalty for driving an unregistered vehicle is a minimum fine of $230 - a much more costly fee than the registration itself. And the last thing you want to hear is “license and registration, please” if you’re ever pulled over for any reason while driving an unregistered car. The sole purpose of car registration is to pay a fee to the province you live in that allows the province to keep track of vehicles on the road. It acts as proof that you legally own the vehicle.…

Driver Licensing Services You Need to Know About in Edmonton

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Do you reside in Edmonton, Alberta? Are you thinking about renewing your driver’s license or perhaps getting a new one entirely? We here at Riverbend Registry offer the services you need to make the process of getting (or staying) on the road effortless. And we do it at both a reasonable and an affordable rate. We’re here to meet your needs, and for this reason, we want you to be well-educated on the services we provide so that you can make the best choice for yourself going forward. Driver Licensing Services Knowledge Tests Did you know that there are 7…

How To Renew Or Replace Your Driver’s License in Alberta

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If you're a driver in Alberta, then you need to know how and when to renew your driver’s license. The procedures for doing so vary depending on whether it's time to renew your license or replace it if it has been lost or stolen. Even though the processes are different, they both require that you visit an Alberta registry office. You also have the option of doing it remotely, although it will require additional paperwork on your end. If this is something new for you, don't worry—we've got all of the information about what needs to be done and where…

Edmonton Land Title Registrations: What You Need to Know

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Land title registration in Alberta can sometimes be confusing and even intimidating. This is due to the fact that the registrations often possess outmoded lingo, misplaced sheets of data, as well as information that is quite frankly -- deceptive. Edmonton land title forms are also known as encumbrances, and in this article, we will be covering all that you need to know about them. A Certificate of Title: What is it? A property’s title in the province of Alberta is a deed created by ALTO (Alberta Title Land Office). Completing a land title search is the most effective way to…

All you need to know about the air brake endorsement program

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Drivers who want to get a Class 1 driver’s license must first complete the air brake endorsement. Air brakes are a type of automatic brake that is built into trucks. It works by initiating pressure in an engine-driven compressor, which is transmitted through hoses and valves to the vehicle's foundation brakes. You are not required to have an air brake endorsement if you drive a single-motor farm vehicle in Alberta, but it is needed for driving any kind of combination that requires the driver to hold Class 1. If applying for your class one license, show proof of your qualifications…

How to avoid long lines at the vehicle registry centre

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Everyone hates waiting in lines, especially if you only need to drop off a few papers or re-register your vehicle. Here are some tips on how to avoid long lines at your local registry in Southwest Edmonton. Avoid busy hours A registry office in Edmonton is usually busy during the following times: Weekends Lunchtime Holidays Opening Closing The first week of the month Last week of the month Days surrounding weekends (like Fridays and Mondays) or holidays People tend to panic at these times because the expiry on vehicle licencing happens at a month-end or they want to get their…

Buying a vehicle from a private seller: What to check

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You need a new ride and after visiting all the local vehicle dealerships in your city, you have finally decided to buy your next car from a private seller. There are plenty of used vehicles to choose from including cars, trucks, and SUVs. But what are some things you should consider before you hand over your hard-earned cash to someone you barely know? Here are a few considerations when buying a vehicle from a private seller. Price Private sellers often have the car you are looking for at a better price than your local automotive dealership. They don’t charge you…

What MELT means for new commercial drivers

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MELT stands for Mandatory Entry-Level Training for commercial drivers. It’s required for individuals who want to obtain a Class 1 or Class 2 driver’s license, with the exemption for those who have an agricultural or school bus licence extension. This article details what the program involves, the cost, and who is required to take it. What do you need to be eligible for a Class 1 or Class 2 driver’s licence? Our vehicle registry in South Edmonton can help you through the driver’s licencing process or re-class your licence. To get a Class 1 or 2 driver’s licence, you must:…

Purchasing a used car? Here’s how to verify the details

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Purchasing a used car? Whether you’re working with a dealership or a private seller, there are important steps to take to make sure you’re driving away with a reliable vehicle at a fair price. This article is all about how to verify vehicle details while purchasing a used car in Edmonton, specifically. Remember that different regulations apply to each province. If you’re in Alberta, keep reading and let’s ensure you’re making an informed decision on your vehicle purchase. 1. Vehicle history Once you’ve chosen a vehicle, the first thing you want to do is inquire about the vehicle’s history. Run…

Documents you are required to have for a driving test in Alberta

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Driving on municipal roads requires you to have specific licences for the type of permit you need. When you go to a registry office in Edmonton you will need to confirm your identity before you can pass an exam either for a learner’s driving permit or a new driver’s licence. So, what documents are required during the driving test in Edmonton? [caption id="attachment_1093" align="aligncenter" width="1000"] Driving test[/caption] If you have never driven a vehicle before and wish to obtain a learner’s permit you must pass the test after reading the “Basic Licence Driver’s Handbook” as published by the Alberta Government.…

4 services for new Canadian immigrants offered by a registry office

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If you’re new to Alberta, we want to extend a warm welcome to Canada - The Great White North! This is an exciting time in your life but also one that can be overwhelming with a list of required to-dos. One of those tasks is heading to your local Edmonton registry office for items that you need for a harmonious and smooth transition. Our friendly and helpful team is here ready to help and can offer the following (and more) services for new immigrants. [caption id="attachment_1088" align="aligncenter" width="1000"] Various registry services for new immigrants[/caption] Alberta Identification Card Because you won’t…

Transferring your vehicle registration? Here’s what you need to know

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You can transfer your registration from a previous vehicle to another vehicle that you own. If your current registration is valid, you have 14 days to transfer the plate. Note: The 14-day period to transfer your vehicle registration does not apply to commercial vehicles and your insurance documents. You’ll need to contact your insurance company or broker on purchasing adequate insurance for your new vehicle. What is the cost of transferring my vehicle registration? Providing that the license plate registration is currently valid, the cost to transfer registration to another vehicle is $22.45. If it’s not valid, you’ll need to…

Driving a vehicle without registration: Is it legal in Edmonton?

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In the province of Alberta, you must have a valid registration obtained from a vehicle registry in Edmonton and current insurance to drive a vehicle on the road. However, if you already have an existing plate, you can transfer that plate over to a new car. If you’ve recently bought a new car or you’re planning to purchase a vehicle in the near future, here’s what you need to know about vehicle registration. Transferring an existing plate to a new vehicle You are legally required to have insurance on any new vehicle. Once you’ve made the purchase, call your insurance…

What you need to know about registering your vehicle in Edmonton 

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“License and registration, please.”  The last thing you want is to hear this sentence from a police officer while driving an unregistered vehicle, an offence that can cost you a minimum fine of $230. Registering your car is required by law in Alberta. We break down what you need to know about vehicle registry in Edmonton to make the process smooth and easy to understand.  What is vehicle registration? Car registration includes paying a fee to the province you live in and allows the province to keep track of the vehicles driven by its residents. The registration is meant to…

Smog test for Alberta vehicle registration: What you need to know

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Smog test laws vary depending on where you live. In Canada, Ontario is the only province with mandatory emissions testing for vehicles. Smog tests help officials identify cars that release excessive emissions. Failing a smog test means that you’ll need to bring your vehicle in for necessary repairs to be approved for registration renewal.  [caption id="attachment_1044" align="aligncenter" width="1000"] Vehicle registration renewal process[/caption] Do I need a smog test in Alberta to renew my vehicle registration? No, you do not need a smog test in Alberta. All new vehicles are required to meet Environment Canada’s emissions standards, which states that your…

Documents you need for a marriage license registration

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In Alberta, you need a marriage license for your marriage to be valid. It shows that both you and your partner have met the legal requirements to be married. Once you’ve obtained a marriage license from your local registry, you can move forward in hiring a certified officiant to perform the ceremony.  [caption id="attachment_1038" align="aligncenter" width="1000"] Marriage license registry[/caption] What to expect when applying for a marriage license Alberta marriage licences are available at your local registry and is a 2-part document (Registration of Marriage and Marriage License). The full legal document must be given to your marriage officiant.  What…

Why a birth certificate is important in Alberta

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A birth certificate provides a person with a legal identity and establishes residency. It is an important document that details a person’s: Name Date of birth Place of birth Gender Registration Number Registration Date [caption id="attachment_1031" align="aligncenter" width="732"] Birth Certificate[/caption] A birth certificate with added parentage also includes: Name of parent(s) Birthplace of the parent(s) While the primary purpose of a birth certificate in Alberta is to identify a person, it’s often required to apply for other important documents. We detail below why a birth certificate is a valuable piece of paper at several points through a person’s life. Access…

5 Things to Know about Vehicle Registration Renewal

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In Alberta, all vehicles need to be registered and renewed each year. Driving on the road or parking your vehicle on your property with an expired registration breaks the Traffic Safety Act and can result in penalties. Whether you’re renewing your registration for the first time or there are changes in your file, we’ve listed some important information to know about your vehicle’s registration renewal. [caption id="attachment_1012" align="alignnone" width="800"] Vehicle Registration Renewal[/caption] 1. You will not be Sent a Reminder Letter The Alberta government no longer sends out vehicle registration renewal reminders. Car owners are responsible for setting up a…

Tips to Avoid License Plate Renewal Scam

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In recent times, an increasing number of fake registry websites have popped up claiming to offer online license plate renewals. These websites posing as official registry services can take you down a dangerous road, bringing consumers to: • Share information that makes customers vulnerable to identity theft • Provide credit card numbers and social insurance numbers • Overpay for driver’s license applications and license plate renewals How to avoid license plate renewal scams Officials are urging the public to avoid suspicious websites that collect illegal personal information that could end up in the wrong hands. To help, Riverbend Registry is…

What is a Raffle License and Do I Need One?

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If your organization is planning to run a raffle during an event, there is some key information to know about the raffle license application process to help protect you and your group. Before you head to your nearest registry office in Edmonton, take a look at this guide that Riverbend Registry put together to help you prepare for your raffle license application. What is considered a raffle? By definition, a raffle is any lottery scheme where ticket purchases pay for a chance to win a prize. If you’re organizing the following, a raffle licence is needed: • 50/50 • Sports…

Do I Need a Special License to Drive an RV or Motorhome?

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You’ve purchased a brand new RV and are excited to get it on the road for new adventures. Or maybe you’re planning a trip and are looking to rent an RV or motorhome. The question is - do you need a special license to drive an RV in Canada? In general, you can drive an RV or motorhome in all provinces with a standard driver's license. You don’t need any special license to operate a motorhome. With that said, depending on the weight of the vehicle, there are some specific RV license requirements to keep in mind. Check-in with one…

New Website Launched!

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Riverbend Registry in Southwest Edmonton Under New Management Riverbend Registry Services is your one-stop destination for all your Alberta Registry Needs! Serving Edmonton's Southwest neighborhoods since 1993, we offer friendly, convenient and professional service. In addition to motor vehicle and driver licensing registrations, we can also assist with all corporate registry, land titles, vital statistics, and personal property needs. We even have Commissioner for Oaths and Notary Public personnel on staff (for more information click HERE). Visit us for fast and confidential registry services.