Canada Exam Prep
Alberta Class 6 overview

Alberta class 6 study guide: key rules on all 18 topics

Free Alberta Class 6 study guide: 365 key points from the Rider's Guide: Motorcycles, mopeds, and power-assisted bicycles in plain words, organised by topic, each topic linked to its practice questions.

By the ·

  • 18 topics
  • 366 key points
  • Free, no sign-up

This study guide collects our notes on every topic of the Alberta Class 6 Motorcycle Knowledge Test on one page: 365 short points in our own words, grouped by topic and by handbook section. Read it from top to bottom before your first practice test, or jump to a topic from the list below.

Each topic ends with a link to its practice questions, so you can check what you just read straight away, and a link to the official chapter for the full wording. The notes summarise the Rider's Guide: Motorcycles, mopeds, and power-assisted bicycles from the Government of Alberta; they do not replace it, and where our notes and the official source differ, the official source wins.

Study these notes as flashcards →

Road signs

Sign shapes and colours, regulatory, permissive and prohibitive signs, warning signs, school and playground zones, and construction signs.

Practise Road signs questionsFlashcardsOfficial chapter

Driver's Guide (Spring 2026), Ch. 2 Traffic Control, pp. 25–37

  • Red circle with slash: action not permitted. Green circle: action permitted.
  • White rectangle with black message: regulatory.
  • Five-sided fluorescent yellow-green: school zone/area.
  • Black square with white message: lane control.
  • Orange diamond: construction. Yellow diamond: warning.
  • Green rectangle: guide information (destinations, distances). Blue: services.
  • Red octagon STOP: full stop, go when safe. Yield triangle: yield to traffic not facing the sign and to pedestrians.
  • Do not enter.
  • Speed signs in km/h are maximums for ideal conditions.
  • One way, two-way traffic, keep right of divider.
  • Permissive: turn left only, straight only. Prohibitive: no left/right/U-turn, do not pass, no bicycles, no pedestrians.
  • Reserved lanes may show times/days. Dual turn lanes: keep your lane through the turn.
  • Disability parking only for vehicles with placard/plate (p. 32).
  • 100 km/h provincial highway outside urban area; 80 km/h provincial highway inside a city; 80 km/h other roads outside urban area; 50 km/h urban roads.
  • School zone (sign with speed tab): school days 8:00–9:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m., 3:00–4:30 p.m. unless other times posted; 30 km/h unless posted; no passing while in effect.
  • School area (no tab): caution only.
  • Playground zone: every day 8:30 a.m. to one hour after sunset; 30 km/h; no passing.
  • Curve, sharp turn, winding road; speed tab under curve sign = recommended maximum in ideal conditions.
  • Stop ahead, yield ahead, signals ahead, school bus stop ahead.
  • Pedestrian, deer, bicycle crossings; T intersection; side road; merge; right lane ends; divided highway begins/ends; road narrows; hill; bump; slippery when wet; chevrons and hazard markers mark sharp bends/obstructions; bridge ices.
  • Round yellow advance sign: railway crossing ahead. Crossbuck: yield to trains.
  • Slow-moving vehicle sign: vehicle under 40 km/h.
  • Construction zone speed applies at all times even when no one is working; fines doubled when workers present; obey flag person.
  • Detour signs mark temporary route.

Traffic lights and signals

Solid, flashing and arrow lights, turns on a red light, pedestrian signals, lane reversal signals and flashing yellow beacons.

Practise Traffic lights and signals questionsFlashcardsOfficial chapter

Driver's Guide (Spring 2026), Ch. 2 Traffic Control, pp. 22–24 (from our Class 7 notes)

  • Vertical: red top, yellow centre, green bottom.
  • Solid red: stop before stop line, else crosswalk, else intersection. Right on red allowed after full stop and yielding unless a sign prohibits. Left on red only one-way onto one-way after a full stop.
  • Solid yellow: stop unless too close to stop safely; if in the intersection, clear it.
  • Solid green: go; yield to oncoming traffic when turning left and to pedestrians when turning.
  • Stale green: been green a while; pedestrian WALK = will stay green; DON'T WALK = be ready to stop.
  • Green arrow with red: go only in arrow direction. Green arrow with green: arrow direction without yielding.
  • Flashing red = stop sign; all-way flashing red = four-way stop.
  • Flashing yellow: proceed with caution, yield to pedestrians and vehicles in the intersection.
  • Flashing green (Alberta): go straight, left or right without stopping; opposing traffic has red; still yield to those lawfully in the intersection.
  • Pedestrian WALK: may enter; DON'T WALK: don't start; those already crossing finish.
  • Flashing yellow lights on school/playground/pedestrian signs: max 30 km/h and yield to pedestrians (p. 24).
  • Lane reversal signals: red X = do not use that lane; green downward arrow = may use (p. 24).
  • Warning sign with flashing yellow before signals: light ahead is changing or red (p. 33).
  • Peace officer directions override signals (p. 58).

Pavement markings

Yellow and white lines, passing zones, two-way left-turn lanes, diamonds, painted islands, bicycle lanes, crosswalks and stop lines.

Practise Pavement markings questionsFlashcardsOfficial chapter

Driver's Guide (Spring 2026), Ch. 2 Traffic Control, pp. 38–41 (from our Class 7 notes)

  • Yellow lines separate opposite directions; yellow line should be on your left. White lines separate same direction.
  • Broken yellow: passing allowed when safe. Single/double solid yellow outside urban areas: no passing; within an urban area passing safely across a single solid yellow is permitted.
  • Solid + broken: driver with the broken line on their side may pass.
  • Broken white: lane change allowed; solid white: lane change not allowed.
  • Pavement arrows: allowed movements from that lane.
  • Two-way left-turn lane: shared by left turners from both directions; may cross solid yellow to enter; enter close to the turn (pp. 39, 67).
  • Diamond: reserved lane for specific vehicles.
  • Large X on rural highway: railway crossing ahead (p. 40).
  • Painted island: not for travel; cross only to enter/leave driveway or alley; no stopping/parking on it.
  • Bicycle lane: drive in it only to turn or enter/exit parking; dashed near corners where you may enter to turn right. Sharrow: cyclists share the lane.
  • Crosswalks exist at intersections even when unmarked unless a sign prohibits crossing (p. 41).
  • Stop line: where to stop at intersection or railway crossing. No-stopping zones often where large vehicles turn.

Class 6 licensing and GDL

Learning to ride, supervisors, Class 7 learner riding conditions, the knowledge and road tests, Class 6-GDL conditions, exiting GDL, mopeds and power bicycles.

Practise Class 6 licensing and GDL questionsFlashcardsOfficial chapter

Rider's Guide (Spring 2023), Ch. 1 Licensing and Learning, pp. 8–12

  • To learn to ride you must be 16 or older, hold a valid driver's licence and be supervised.
  • Until you pass the Class 6 road test, your supervisor must hold a non-GDL (full) Class 6 licence.
  • 30 questions on safe riding practices, rules of the road, traffic signs and signals, and licensing.
  • Done on a computer; questions come from the Rider's Guide and the Driver's Guide.
  • Taken at most registry agent offices; a test permit must be bought for every attempt.
  • The knowledge test must be passed before the road test.
  • Recommended for all new riders; teaches balance, control and theory (serpentine, circles/figure eight, slow straight riding, shifting, curves, hill starts, emergency stops, swerving).
  • Supervisor: valid full Class 6, not in GDL.
  • Supervision at all times by: sitting on the learner's motorcycle, following on another motorcycle, or following in a vehicle.
  • No riding at night. GDL night-time = from midnight or one hour after sunset (whichever is earlier) until 5 a.m. or one hour before sunrise (whichever is later).
  • Zero drugs and zero BAC while seated on or riding the motorcycle.
  • Must have fewer than eight demerit points.
  • Zero drugs and BAC while seated on or riding; cannot supervise a learning rider; fewer than eight demerits.
  • Class 1–5 holders learning to ride must have a supervising rider.
  • A valid Class 6 is needed to ride on a public road without a supervising rider.
  • Book online or at a registry agent; fee for each test.
  • Done in traffic; starts and ends at the registry agent office.
  • You supply the motorcycle plus valid insurance and registration; examiner checks it and won't test an unsafe motorcycle.
  • About 60 minutes; includes equipment/motorcycle check, rules of the road, signalling, turns, intersection judgement, balance, road position, speed control.
  • Examiner follows in another vehicle and uses one-way radios; three routine pull-over stops are made regardless of errors.
  • Passing does not change your licence automatically: go to a registry and pay to re-class.
  • Probationary for at least two years.
  • Suspended at eight or more demerit points.
  • Zero alcohol and drug level while riding.
  • Cannot supervise a learning rider.
  • Class 7 holder who passes the Class 6 road test → Class 6-GDL.
  • Class 7 holder who passed Class 5 road test first, then Class 6 → combination Class 5 6 GDL.
  • At least 18 years old; suspension-free for the last 12 consecutive months of probation.
  • Approved driver training course (condition code U) can shorten probation by up to six months.
  • After exiting: full Class 6, more demerits allowed, zero alcohol/drug condition removed, may supervise a learner.
  • (alberta.ca Class 6 page, retrieved 2026-10-15: full Class 6 requires age 18, 24 months probation, suspension- and demerit-free last 12 months.)
  • (alberta.ca Class 6 page, retrieved 2026-10-17, Eligibility: to get a Class 6 you must be at least 16 and have held at least a Class 7 learner's licence for a year. The Rider's Guide p. 8 only says "valid driver's licence".)
  • Motorcycle: Class 6 or 6-GDL, minimum age 16, registration and insurance required, approved motorcycle helmet.
  • Moped (incl. limited-speed motorcycles): any class 1–7, minimum age 14, registration and insurance required, approved motorcycle helmet, ride as far right as practical, no passenger if operator under 16.
  • Power bicycle (incl. power-assisted bicycles): no licence needed, minimum age 12, no registration or insurance, approved motorcycle helmet, ride as far right as practical, no passenger if operator under 16.
  • Motorcycle: motor vehicle other than a moped on two or three wheels; weight 55 kg or more.
  • Moped: electric motor or engine of not more than 50 cc; minimum seat height 65 cm; top speed 70 km/h; LSM compliance label.
  • Power-assisted bicycle: electric motor of at most 500 watts; top speed 32 km/h; marked as power-assisted bicycle.
  • Road test on a three-wheeled motorcycle restricts the Class 6 to three-wheelers.

Helmets and protective gear

Approved helmet standards, helmet types and fit, eye and face protection, jackets, pants, boots, gloves and hearing protection.

Practise Helmets and protective gear questionsFlashcardsOfficial chapter

Rider's Guide (Spring 2023), Ch. 2 Preparing to Ride, pp. 15–18

  • Operators and passengers of motorcycles, mopeds and power-assisted bicycles in Alberta must wear an approved motorcycle helmet.
  • Approved helmet carries a label/mark of a standard in force when made: CSA, DOT, BSI or Snell.
  • Illegal to buy or sell a motorcycle safety helmet that doesn't meet current standards.
  • Full coverage (full face) — recommended: best protection for entire head, ears and base of skull, lower face and chin, face shield, strongest structure, best weather/airborne-object protection.
  • Three-quarter (open face): top, sides, back, ears, base of skull; can add face shield; does not protect face and chin or fully from weather.
  • One-half (shorty): least recommended approved helmet; no face/chin, no base of skull, not full weather protection.
  • Many crashes involve impact to head, face and chin.
  • Lighter coloured helmets are more visible.
  • Try a helmet on for five to ten minutes when choosing.
  • Fasten chin strap; if helmet comes off without loosening strap, it's not secured or the wrong size.
  • Replace after a collision (manufacturers); may need replacing if dropped on a hard surface with a weight-bearing impact.
  • Don't buy used; don't use past the manufacturer's date; don't alter (paint, solvent, add equipment); don't add unapproved reflective stickers — buy a helmet with built-in reflective features.
  • Most windshields don't adequately protect eyes/face; best is a full coverage helmet with built-in shield.
  • Shatter-resistant face shield protects from wind, dust, dirt, rain, insects, rocks.
  • Effective eye protection: motorcycle specific, scratch free, penetration resistant, clear side-to-side and forward view, securely fastened, fits over glasses.
  • Ordinary eyeglasses/sunglasses may not be enough; wear goggles over corrective glasses.
  • No tinted eye protection at night or in poor light; use clear shield or clear goggles.
  • Motorcycle-specific clothing protects best; wear layers.
  • Jackets and pants fully cover torso, arms, legs; snug enough not to flap, loose enough to move.
  • Sturdy synthetic textiles or leather best; denim gives minimum protection and wears through quickly; shorts/lightweight pants and nylon not recommended.
  • Colours help others see you; reflective strips help at night.
  • Cold weather jacket: wind resistant, snug at neck and wrists. Rainsuit: won't balloon or tear at highway speed, long sleeves, room over riding clothes.
  • Cover ankles; leather or sturdy synthetic; durable soles that grip even when wet; short heels; laces tucked in.
  • Motorcycle gloves; do not wear mitts.
  • Thin enough to grip and work controls, thick enough to protect in a crash; leather or similar; cover wrists and overlap jacket sleeves.
  • Wind noise increases with speed; causes fatigue and permanent hearing loss; helmet alone may not be enough; use earplugs, especially on highways.

Rider fitness and distractions

Hypothermia, overheating and dehydration, alcohol, drugs and medication, fatigue, cell phones and other distractions.

Practise Rider fitness and distractions questionsFlashcardsOfficial chapter

Rider's Guide (Spring 2023), Ch. 2 Preparing to Ride, pp. 17–19

  • Hypothermia: body loses heat faster than it makes it; caused by cold or wind chill; can happen even in warm weather because of constant wind.
  • Being chilled slows reflexes and response, reduces concentration. Windproof jacket and insulated layers are essential; heated riding clothing exists.
  • Hyperthermia: body overheats; wind over exposed skin dries moisture → dehydration risk.
  • Prevent: drink plenty of water before the ride and on breaks; plan frequent water breaks and rest out of direct sun.
  • Riding without a jacket makes hyperthermia/dehydration worse; vented jackets and helmets help.
  • Never ride after drinking alcohol or using drugs.
  • Ask a doctor or pharmacist whether prescription or over-the-counter medicines affect judgement and reaction.
  • Don't ride tired or stressed; avoid getting too cold, too hot or dehydrated.
  • Don't make/receive calls or read/send texts while riding.
  • Stop in a safe place at the side of the road to use a phone (including hands-free), groom, listen to music, eat or drink.
  • Two-way radios and GPS units are also distractions.
  • Traffic Safety Act fines cover: hand-held cell phone use; texting/emailing; electronic devices (laptops, video games, cameras, video displays); programming portable audio players; entering GPS information; reading printed material; writing, printing or sketching; personal grooming.

Controls and pre-ride inspection

Choosing a motorcycle that fits, learning the controls, the pre-trip inspection checklist and seasonal storage.

Practise Controls and pre-ride inspection questionsFlashcardsOfficial chapter

Rider's Guide (Spring 2023), Ch. 3 Knowing Your Motorcycle, pp. 22–24

  • Choose a motorcycle you can handle at your experience and skill level.
  • Proper fit: one foot (preferably the left) flat on the ground while the right foot is on the brake; comfortable foot pegs and hand grips; reach all controls without straining.
  • You should be able to push the motorcycle and park it on the kickstand.
  • Read the owner's manual to learn controls and gauges; do the same on an unfamiliar motorcycle.
  • Before starting the engine, practise shifting up and down with clutch lever and gear selector; practise throttle motions without moving the throttle.
  • To learn the brakes, roll the motorcycle slightly and stop with front, then rear, then both brakes.
  • Problems with tires, lights or brakes have been found on motorcycles in injury/fatal collisions.
  • Tires: pressure per owner's manual; tread depth; uneven wear may mean alignment problem; remove stones; check for nails/glass (remove and repair); cuts, bulges, cracks, sidewall damage.
  • Wheels: loose/broken spokes, cracked rims, bearings lubricated, seals not leaking.
  • Exhaust: muffler secure and in good condition.
  • Drive: chain lubricated and properly tensioned; belt wear and tension; shaft for oil leaks.
  • Lights: headlight high and low beam and tail light work; headlight must come on when the motor runs; foot and hand brake controls both activate the brake light; reflectors, turn signals; battery secure; horn works; engine cut-off switch stops engine; instrument lights with key ON; neutral light (usually green); hazard lights; sidestand safety interlock switch.
  • Fluids: oil level and colour (yellow good; black/dark change it); coolant if liquid cooled; fuel; brake fluid; differential fluid; leaks under the bike.
  • Clutch: cable moves freely and feels tight; hydraulic fluid level.
  • Throttle: moves freely and snaps back closed on its own.
  • Mirrors: clean, adjusted, secure.
  • Brakes: apply front and rear separately; each must hold the motorcycle when you try to push it.
  • Licence plate: secure on rear mudguard/fender, clearly visible; plate light if equipped.
  • Stands: centre stand spring not broken, no cracks/bends; both secure when retracted.
  • Store properly for winter in the fall: protect tires, deal with fuel, remove battery, protect from weather.
  • After storage: tune-up and oil change are a good idea.

Riding position, gears and parking

Riding position, starting, signalling, the clutch and friction zone, shifting gears, starting on a hill and parking.

Practise Riding position, gears and parking questionsFlashcardsOfficial chapter

Rider's Guide (Spring 2023), Ch. 4 The Basics of Safe Operating and Riding, pp. 27–31

  • Arms slightly bent and relaxed; steer without stretching.
  • Right wrist slightly bent down, no higher than flat — prevents too much throttle, gives access to front brake.
  • Left hand similar; light but firm grip, reach clutch, signal, headlight switch, horn.
  • Feet firmly on foot pegs whenever moving; don't point feet down; don't drag feet or rest them on the gear selector or brake pedal.
  • Knees lightly against the tank for balance; eyes well ahead, not down.
  • New riders practise starting, stopping, turning, lane changing, braking at slow speed in a traffic-free area.
  • Too much throttle → loss of control; too little → stall.
  • Release anti-theft steering lock; straddle; upright the bike and retract sidestand; feet on the ground.
  • Mirrors: show lane behind and adjacent lanes; edge of arm/shoulder visible; objects may be closer than they appear; never rely entirely on mirrors.
  • Neutral; fuel ON; engine cut-off to RUN; choke or wait for fuel-injection light OFF; press starter; warm up; close choke; lights on.
  • Before moving: path clear, check mirrors, shoulder check, signal (arm signal optional), choose a lane position where others can see you.
  • Don't signal too early or too late; cancel signals that don't self-cancel; hand signals may be used in addition to signal lights.
  • Left foot: gear shift lever. Left hand: clutch lever. Right hand: throttle and front brake. Right foot: rear brake.
  • Squeezing clutch disengages engine power from the rear wheel; squeeze just before stopping to avoid stalling.
  • Friction zone: point where the clutch starts to engage as you release the lever.
  • Start in first; shift up as speed increases; correct gear avoids lugging (rough, bumpy) or racing (revving without moving effectively).
  • Downshifting while too fast for the gear may make the rear wheel skid.
  • Upshift: foot under lever, roll off throttle while squeezing clutch, lift lever — one gear at a time — release clutch gradually with a little throttle.
  • Downshift: foot on top of lever, roll off throttle and squeeze clutch, push down firmly; can drop several gears with clutch in.
  • Shift down through each gear when slowing/stopping so you know you are in first.
  • Slow and change gears before a curve or corner, not in it; enter at a speed you can hold without braking.
  • Front brake holds the bike while shifting into first; then rear brake with right foot; release front brake, open throttle slightly; release clutch to friction point; release rear brake while adding throttle.
  • Releasing the clutch too fast can stall the engine or lift the front wheel.
  • Motorcycles may angle park where others must parallel park: about 45–60 degrees to the curb; rear wheel within 50 cm (20 in) of the curb.
  • Use side kickstand; front wheel turned fully left and locked; remove key.
  • Hill: best facing uphill, rear wheel touching the curb.
  • Avoid facing downhill; if you must, about 45 degrees to the curb, in first gear, steering locked left.

Braking, traction and stopping distance

Tires and traction, using the front and rear brakes, threshold braking, and perception, reaction and braking distance.

Practise Braking, traction and stopping distance questionsFlashcardsOfficial chapter

Rider's Guide (Spring 2023), Ch. 4 The Basics of Safe Operating and Riding, pp. 31–33

  • Traction = grip of tires on the road; rider controls speed, acceleration and braking.
  • Softer compounds grip better but wear sooner; under- or over-inflation reduces traction and affects wear; choose tread for conditions; replace worn tires.
  • Traction reduced by wet roads, metal bridges, snow/ice, painted lines, holes/cracks, gravel, sand, leaves, antifreeze, oil.
  • Roads are most slippery in the first few minutes of rain; watch for hydroplaning.
  • Braking, cornering, curves and acceleration need the most traction; asking for more than available = loss of control.
  • Most motorcycles: hand-operated front brake, foot-operated rear brake, working independently; some have linked brakes or ABS (read owner's manual).
  • Normal stop: apply front and rear together.
  • Weight shifts forward: about three-quarters of braking traction is on the front tire, approaching all of it with harder braking; rear may lose contact.
  • Increase pressure gradually; threshold braking = just before wheels lock.
  • Downshifting without braking doesn't light the brake light — brake lightly between downshifts.
  • Avoid braking with the wheel turned; caution braking in turns, curves, slippery/rough roads.
  • Downshift to first before stopping; keep rear brake applied while stopped.
  • Riding with brake partly on lights brake light, confuses drivers, wears brakes.
  • Perception time (recognize need to stop) ≈ three-quarters of a second; new riders often slower.
  • Reaction time (move hand/foot to brake) — average three-quarters of a second.
  • Braking distance depends on speed, weight, tire traction, brakes, road/weather, skill.
  • Stopping distance = perception + reaction + braking distance; higher speed increases all.
  • Visual skill, attention, fatigue, alcohol/drugs affect all three.

Turns, curves and skids

Turning at low speed, push-steering (counter-steering) through curves, and avoiding and recovering from skids.

Practise Turns, curves and skids questionsFlashcardsOfficial chapter

Rider's Guide (Spring 2023), Ch. 4 The Basics of Safe Operating and Riding, pp. 33–35

  • Approach a turn slowly: less than 20 to 25 km/h; shift before the turn; use first or second gear.
  • Turn the front wheel and look where you want to go; coordinate clutch, throttle and rear brake; light firm grip.
  • Above 20–25 km/h use push-steering (counter-steering): push left grip → lean and go left; push right grip → lean and go right.
  • More push = more lean; higher speed needs more lean; you and the bike lean toward the inside of the curve.
  • Near the end, release pressure; push opposite grip if needed to straighten.
  • New riders often enter curves too fast: slow and downshift before; slow more in poor conditions; look through the curve.
  • Avoid sudden slowing or accelerating while leaning; can brake in an emergency but bring bike upright first, avoid locking (threshold).
  • Gently accelerate near the end of the curve.
  • Causes: improper throttle/clutch/brake use, unsafe handling for conditions, steering too sharply, turning too fast, braking too hard (usually rear), accelerating too quickly, braking while turning; worsened by slippery surfaces, sand, gravel.
  • Plan ahead; slow on unfamiliar roads.
  • If skidding: don't panic; look and steer where you want to go.
  • Over-acceleration skid: ease off throttle, look and steer where you want the front to go.
  • Rear skidding: look and steer along intended path.

Lane position, space and being seen

Blind spots, the space cushion, following distance, choosing a lane and lane position, and changing lanes.

Practise Lane position, space and being seen questionsFlashcardsOfficial chapter

Rider's Guide (Spring 2023), Ch. 5 Managing Risk in Traffic, pp. 38–41

  • No seat belt or protective shell; collisions usually injure the rider.
  • Many drivers don't see or anticipate motorcycles; some say they never saw the rider. Anticipate; position to be seen; horn if needed.
  • Mirrors leave large blind spots; shoulder check before changing lanes.
  • Stay out of drivers' blind spots; ride where you appear in their inside or outside mirror; if you can't see the driver in their mirror, they probably can't see you.
  • Gives time/space to act, escape route, reduces rear-end risk, helps others see you, more time to respond.
  • Following distance is the space you control completely.
  • At least two to three seconds behind; three to four seconds at higher speeds or in poor light/weather.
  • Tailgater behind: slow slightly to let them pass and increase space ahead.
  • Sides: avoid riding beside vehicles or in their blind spot.
  • Riding beside another motorcycle in the same lane is illegal and reduces escape routes.
  • Avoid riding near the lane edge or curb — it invites drivers into your lane.
  • Large vehicles: leave wide space; big blind spots; following closely hides you and blocks your view.
  • Never ride between the curb and a vehicle (especially a large one) turning right; stay back until it finishes.
  • Parked vehicles: ride in the left portion; watch for doors, pedestrians, cars pulling out (person in seat, signal, brake lights, exhaust, arm signal).
  • Four or more lanes: use right lane when possible, ride in its left portion.
  • In the lane next to the yellow dividing line: ride in the right portion (right wheel track) for escape routes; don't follow too closely or left-turning oncoming drivers can't see you.
  • Two-lane road: left portion (left wheel track) usually safest — seen by oncoming traffic and in mirrors, see oncoming vehicles, away from vehicles from the right, away from curb hazards, avoids oily centre and raised centre.
  • No position is safest for all situations.
  • Before a hill crest: right portion (oncoming vehicle may be passing in your lane).
  • Curves: position giving best view ahead.
  • Approaching large vehicle: right portion, firm grip (wind blast); wait a few seconds after it passes before moving back.
  • Minimise lane changes; plan route.
  • Steps: safe and legal spot; check ahead and mirrors; shoulder check; signal (+ optional hand signal); shoulder check again; change if safe, otherwise restart.

Intersections and passing

Lane position at intersections, a stalled motorcycle, passing emergency vehicles, when not to pass, passing on a two-lane highway and being passed.

Practise Intersections and passing questionsFlashcardsOfficial chapter

Rider's Guide (Spring 2023), Ch. 5 Managing Risk in Traffic, pp. 42–44

  • Same rules as other drivers; high-risk areas.
  • Common collisions: rider turning left in front of oncoming traffic; oncoming driver turning left in front of a rider going straight; vehicles entering from the right or left.
  • Approach ready to slow and brake; keep space cushion; scan left, centre, right several times; check mirrors often; be ready to change lane/position.
  • Oncoming driver signalling left, or vehicle entering from the left: slow, move to centre or right portion; choose escape route.
  • Vehicle entering from the right: use left portion.
  • Vehicles entering from both sides: use left portion.
  • Never assume the other driver has seen you.
  • Don't squeeze around or between vehicles.
  • Stalled and won't restart in an intersection: when safe, walk it clear, staying on the left side of the motorcycle; turn on hazard lights if equipped.
  • Passing stopped emergency vehicles or tow trucks with lights flashing: 60 km/h or the posted speed, whichever is lower; if not in the next lane still be cautious; leave space; watch for personnel.
  • High-risk; only when necessary, in a legal zone, when safe.
  • Don't pass a vehicle stopped for a pedestrian, slowing unexpectedly, or approaching/stopped at a railway crossing.
  • Don't pass near/at the top of a hill, approaching or in an intersection, where you can't see ahead (curve), or on the shoulder.
  • Lane splitting (squeezing between vehicles in the area between lanes) is illegal and dangerous.
  • Two-lane highway pass: left portion of lane; keep at least two seconds following distance until ready; check ahead, mirrors, left shoulder check; left signal and arm signal; recheck ahead; pass; return when the front of the passed vehicle is visible in your right mirror; right shoulder check; signal and return. Exceeding the speed limit is illegal.
  • Being passed: keep constant speed and position; speeding up while being passed is illegal; if the passer needs room, slow and move right; return to left portion after.
  • Following space at least two to three seconds.
  • Scan at least 12 seconds ahead in urban areas, 20 to 25 seconds in rural areas.

Night, weather and road surfaces

Riding at night and in fog, wind and temperature extremes, hydroplaning, gravel, ice, metal gratings and railway tracks.

Practise Night, weather and road surfaces questionsFlashcardsOfficial chapter

Rider's Guide (Spring 2023), Ch. 6 Riding in Challenging Conditions, pp. 47–49

  • Slow down when you can't see well; distances harder to judge after dark (contrast missing under artificial light).
  • Don't overdrive your headlights: be able to stop within the lit distance.
  • High beams on poorly lit roads; switch to low beam before 150 m (492 ft) from a vehicle ahead and 300 m (984 ft) or more from oncoming vehicles.
  • Use the headlights of the vehicle ahead to see further; bouncing lights warn of bumps.
  • Reflective clothing/tape; helmet with built-in reflective material; reflectors on bike.
  • Keep goggles, face shield, windshield clean; replace if too scratched; clear untinted lenses only at night.
  • Watch for animals especially dawn and dusk — scan ditches for movement and eye shine.
  • Rain, fog, smoke, dust: same precautions; slow down.
  • Fog: low beams (high beams reflect back as glare; also smoke, dust, rain, snow).
  • Avoid poor weather; spring and fall may bring winter weather; check forecasts and road reports.
  • Cold/wind chill → body loses heat, concentration suffers; heat → dehydration, heat exhaustion.
  • Wind: grip with thighs, upper body relaxed, arms bent and loose.
  • Crosswind: lean into it; space cushion in case it drops; lane position away from oncoming traffic.
  • Wind tires you faster; extreme wind — safest not to ride.
  • Fluid leaks collect in the centre of the lane.
  • Most slippery just after rain starts (oil and dirt not yet washed away) — avoid the lane centre then.
  • Hydroplaning: water layer between tires and road. Prevent by slowing without braking. If it happens: don't brake, keep eyes up, maintain or very gradually reduce speed. Avoid ruts where water collects.
  • Gravel, sand, tar strips, mud, paint, steel surfaces like utility hole covers: avoid or cross cautiously.
  • Dirt/gravel/sand collect at road sides, residential areas, curves and highway ramps; spring is worst (winter sanding).
  • Ice forms in low or shaded areas, on bridges and overpasses.
  • Reduced traction: slow before slippery surface and before curves; smooth inputs; front brake still effective — squeeze gradually, progressive pressure; threshold-brake the rear; keep bike from leaning on slippery surfaces; avoid hard braking, quick acceleration, sudden steering.
  • Metal grating bridges or grooved pavement: bike may vibrate/wander — slow before, hold constant speed, gradual inputs.
  • Railway tracks: go straight ahead whatever the angle of the tracks (don't cross into another lane); keep speed even; don't accelerate or brake.

Riding emergencies

Emergency braking, swerving around and riding over obstacles, a stuck throttle, wobble, tire blowouts, airborne objects and animals.

Practise Riding emergencies questionsFlashcardsOfficial chapter

Rider's Guide (Spring 2023), Ch. 7 Handling Riding Emergencies, pp. 52–55

  • Hard braking shifts rider and cargo weight forward → front brake does much more.
  • Threshold braking = just before lockup; keeps steering control and prevents skidding; locked wheel may slide sideways.
  • ABS needs practice to get used to.
  • Check mirrors frequently to avoid being hit from behind when stopping quickly.
  • Try to go around the problem first; if braking with front wheel turned, use gradual threshold braking with less pressure than normal.
  • Otherwise keep the bike upright and the front wheel straight while threshold braking.
  • Front wheel locks: release the lever just enough to unlock, then reapply gradually.
  • Rear wheel locks: keep it locked; release only on a loose surface (sand, gravel) to regain control.
  • Keep feet on foot pegs (need rear brake and gear changes).
  • Fastest stop: bike not leaning, both brakes to maximum threshold.
  • Controlled swerve: push right grip to go right, push left grip to go left.
  • Don't brake while swerving; brake before you lean and after you straighten.
  • Riding over an object: ease off throttle, threshold brake before if possible; grips firm, arms relaxed; front wheel straight; weight back on the seat; stand slightly on the pegs; if slow, accelerate slightly as front wheel reaches it; then resume position. After a hard hit, stop off the road and check tires and rims.
  • Regular maintenance prevents many problems.
  • Stuck throttle: squeeze clutch and use the engine kill switch; look for a safe place; signal and move off the road; brake gradually; hazards on; don't ride until fixed.
  • Wobble = front wheel shaking side to side. Causes: wrong tire pressure, bent wheels, misaligned wheels, accelerating too rapidly, gripping too tightly, loose spokes, poorly mounted windshield, uneven load, too fast for the bike.
  • Wobble response: do not brake; close throttle gradually; signal and move off road; when slow enough, brake carefully; hazards; get it checked.
  • Detected by change in handling; front affects steering most.
  • Front flat: steering heavy/stiff. Hold grips firmly, steer straight, don't brake, ease off throttle, shift weight back, move off the road, use REAR brake carefully, hazards.
  • Rear flat: back sways side to side. Hold grips, steer straight, don't brake, slowly ease off throttle, keep position, move off road, use FRONT brake carefully, hazards.
  • Move away from danger; wear eye/face protection; windshield helps.
  • Smeared or cracked shield: concentrate on control, move off road, stop and fix; never fix while moving.
  • Animals unpredictable; more active at dusk and dawn; slow and be ready to steer around or stop.
  • Dog chasing: slow and downshift, then accelerate away as it approaches; keep both feet on the pegs.
  • Increase following distance when faced with airborne objects.

Passengers, cargo and three-wheelers

Carrying a passenger legally and safely, loading cargo, towing a trailer, three-wheeled motorcycles and sidecars.

Practise Passengers, cargo and three-wheelers questionsFlashcardsOfficial chapter

Rider's Guide (Spring 2023), Ch. 8 Carrying a Passenger or Cargo, pp. 58–62

  • Not recommended until you are experienced.
  • Legal only if the motorcycle has a seat designed for a passenger plus passenger hand grips and foot rests.
  • May need: suspension adjustment, drive chain slack check, tire pressure for a passenger (see manual/label).
  • Passenger must wear an approved helmet (law); also protective clothing, footwear, eye protection.
  • Passenger checks with you before getting on/off; feet reach and stay on foot pegs even when stopped (hot exhaust); sit only on passenger seat.
  • Rider needs more strength to hold position; passenger sits as far forward as possible without crowding; holds rider's waist (or passenger grips); sits still; moves with rider when speeding up/slowing; looks over rider's shoulder in direction of turn to lean together; warn of sudden moves.
  • Take bike off sidestand before passenger gets on; start slow in traffic-free areas.
  • Following distance three to four seconds (more weight = longer stop); slower on corners, curves, bumps; slow earlier; larger gaps when crossing/merging (slower acceleration); avoid sudden acceleration.
  • Safest in tank or saddle bags designed for motorcycles.
  • Don't interfere with controls/steering; equal weight in each saddle bag; keep load low; above or beside the rear axle (behind the axle affects control).
  • Secure with elastic bungee cords or nets (rope stretches, knots loosen); several cords along the side; stop and check load regularly.
  • Never attach items to front fender or handlebars.
  • Match motorcycle and trailer for size and weight; practise before trips.
  • Inspect hitch hardware, trailer hitch (no cracks, faulty welds), signal/brake/park lights, tires, plate.
  • Heavy items low and over/near the axle; light on top; don't overload.
  • Load slightly front-weighted: tongue weight 10 to 15 per cent of trailer weight.
  • Longer stopping time and distance; slower to speed up and slow down.
  • Considered motorcycles; handle differently; practise in a safe area; keep speed low.
  • Don't lean into turns; shifting weight helps cornering; allow for extra width.
  • Road test on a three-wheeler restricts the Class 6 to three-wheelers.
  • Learn first; practise in a parking lot.
  • Steer directly like a car — overcome urge to lean or push-steer; centre the unit in the lane; remember the sidecar wheel.
  • Accelerating may pull right; slowing may pull left; hold grips firmly.
  • Braking can pull to the side; sidecar brake helps a straighter stop; without one, the unit pulls left when braking.
  • Curves: slower than solo.
  • Turns: slow and gear down one or two gears first.
  • Right turn: shift weight right; the sidecar can lift — if it does, steer more firmly right.
  • Left turn: shift weight left (keeps rear wheel down, less steering effort).

Group riding

Group size, the staggered formation and following times, the lead rider's position, passing and changing lanes as a group, and single file.

Practise Group riding questionsFlashcardsOfficial chapter

Rider's Guide (Spring 2023), Ch. 9 Riding in a Group, pp. 65–68

  • Each rider responsible for own safety and not endangering others.
  • No more than five riders per group (larger: riders get separated in cities, more risk passing/being passed on highways).
  • Comfortable pace for all; watch riders behind in mirrors.
  • Everyone knows the route and the signals (fuel, lane change, stop, rest, hazards, emergencies).
  • Break up the group when conditions are unsafe; reform later.
  • Experienced rider leads; inexperienced riders not in lead; lead rider makes decisions.
  • Don't use the same lane to pass another motorcycle; riding side by side in the same lane is illegal; riding beside another vehicle in separate lanes is unsafe.
  • Staggered: alternating left and right positions in the same lane.
  • 2nd rider: at least 1 second behind the leader, other portion of the lane.
  • 3rd rider: at least 2 seconds behind the leader, same portion as leader.
  • 4th rider: at least 2 seconds behind the 2nd.
  • 5th rider: at least 4 seconds behind the leader, 2 seconds behind the 3rd.
  • Odd number of riders recommended so lead and last riders can see each other and signal.
  • Rides in the dominant portion of the lane to keep other vehicles from entering the lane.
  • Two-lane highway: leader in left portion (dominant); escape to right portion; 2nd rider right portion 1 s behind; 3rd rider left portion 2 s behind leader.
  • Passing on a two-lane highway: one at a time, only when safe and legal; leader passes first, returns to left portion and leaves room ahead of passed vehicle; next rider moves to left portion and waits for enough room; each rider resumes original staggered position.
  • Two lanes same direction: ride in the right lane; leader in its left (dominant) portion.
  • If the left lane must be used: leader in its right portion (dominant).
  • Group lane change: leader signals plus predetermined arm signal; each rider signals; the LAST rider changes lanes first when there is room, then others one at a time (recommended: last, 4th, 3rd, 2nd, leader; order agreed before the ride).
  • After passing as a group, wait until all have passed the vehicle; last rider returns first; same positions as before.
  • Single file when the leader decides: sharp curves, turns, hill crests, narrow roads and bridges; at least two seconds between riders.
  • Three or more lanes: best choice is the far right lane; second choice far left lane.

Sharing the road

Pedestrians, cyclists, large trucks, school buses, snowplows, railway crossings and LRT, from Alberta's Driver's Guide.

Practise Sharing the road questionsFlashcardsOfficial chapter

Driver's Guide (Spring 2026), Ch. 8 Sharing the Road, pp. 97–105 (from our Class 7 notes)

  • Pedestrians: yield in marked/unmarked crosswalks; raised pointing arm = wants to cross, stop before crosswalk; stop 2–3 car lengths back; never pass a vehicle near a crosswalk; white cane/guide dog = visually impaired (p. 97).
  • Cyclists: ridden bike is a vehicle; may move out to avoid grates, potholes, debris; pass by changing lanes; no brake lights — don't follow closely (pp. 97–98).
  • Motorcycles: left part of lane for visibility; never share a lane with a motorcycle (p. 99).
  • Trucks: can't see their mirrors = too close; don't cut in front approaching a light; leave room on hills (rollback); don't fill space on right of a right-turning truck; turning trucks may use part of your lane — stop back (pp. 99–100).
  • School bus: alternating amber = prepare to stop; alternating red + stop arm = stop about 20 m back; undivided highway — all lanes both directions stop; median-divided — only traffic behind the bus; failing to stop = 6 demerits (p. 101).
  • Snowplow: flashing amber and red lights; plows pull over every 5–8 km (p. 102).
  • Railway: stop when train visible within 500 m; stop sign at crossing: 5–15 m from nearest rail; flashing lights: at least 5 m back; never go around gates; watch for second train; LRT very quiet, needs up to 100 m to stop (pp. 103–105).
  • Funeral processions: don't cut through (p. 105).

Demerits, impaired riding and penalties

Demerit point limits for GDL and full licence holders, common demerit values, impaired driving limits and Alberta's Immediate Roadside Sanctions.

Practise Demerits, impaired riding and penalties questionsFlashcardsOfficial chapter

Driver's Guide (Spring 2026), Ch. 9 Driving within the Law, pp. 107–117 (from our Class 7 notes)

  • Fatigue causes; medicines can impair — ask doctor/pharmacist; impairment begins with the first drink (p. 107).
  • Convictions and suspensions stay on record 10 years (p. 108).
  • Full licence: 8–14 points in 2 years → warning letter; 15+ → suspension (p. 108).
  • GDL: 4–7 points → letter; 8+ → suspension (p. 108).
  • Points removed 2 years after conviction date; defensive driving course before 15 points → 3-point credit (p. 110).
  • Demerit suspension: first 1 month; second within a year 3 months; third within 2 years 6 months (p. 110).
  • Demerits: 7 leaving collision scene; 6 careless driving, failing to stop for school bus, racing, 51+ km/h over; 4 failing to yield to pedestrian in crosswalk, following too closely, 31–50 over; 3 stop sign, red light, improper passing, 16–30 over; 2 up to 15 over, illegal U-turn, improper turn; GDL curfew violation 2 (p. 109–110).
  • IRS ZERO for novices (any alcohol or drugs): immediate 30-day suspension, 7-day vehicle seizure, $200 fine + surcharge (p. 112).
  • IRS WARN: BAC 0.05 (50 mg/100 mL) or more; first: 3-day suspension, 3-day seizure, $300 (p. 112).
  • IRS FAIL: BAC 0.08 (80 mg/100 mL) or more, impaired, or refusing a demand; 90 days no driving then 12-month suspension, 30-day seizure (p. 113).
  • Criminal Code impaired conviction: 1-year suspension first offence (p. 111).
  • Driving while suspended: jail/fines, new suspension, 30-day seizure (p. 111).
  • SafeRoads Alberta reviews IRS penalties (p. 117).

Written in our own words from: Rider's Guide: Motorcycles, mopeds, and power-assisted bicycles

FAQ

Alberta Class 6 study guide: common questions

What is the best way to use this Alberta Class 6 study guide?

Read one topic, then answer that topic's practice questions while the rules are fresh. Note the questions you miss, re-read those notes, and finish with a full practice test across all 18 topics.

Is this the official Alberta Class 6 handbook?

No. It is our own summary of the Rider's Guide: Motorcycles, mopeds, and power-assisted bicycles. Use it to review, and use the official handbook when you need the exact wording of a rule.

Can I print the study guide?

Yes, with your browser's print command. For practice questions on paper with an answer key, use our printable questions and answers page instead.

Keep practising

Practice by topic