Class 5 Driver's Licence Training
Your journey to a Manitoba driver's licence starts here
Métis Employment & Training (MET) and Solstice Driving Academy are partnering to help Red River Métis Citizens earn their Class 5 driver's licence. Wherever you are in the licensing process, we will build a plan with you and support you at every step.
Understanding the road to a Manitoba Class 5 driver's licence
Manitoba uses a Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) system. Every new driver, at any age, moves through the same stages. Here is the journey, and how this program supports you on it:
MPI registration (with MET support)
Licensing requires becoming a Manitoba Public Insurance (MPI) customer.
You do not need to contact MPI first. Apply to the program, and MET will help you with any ID you need and guide you through registration.
Pass the Knowledge Test
A written test on Manitoba's rules of the road, plus a vision screening, earns you your Class 5 Learner (5L) licence.
Free classroom instruction prepares you for the Knowledge Test. The program also covers testing and licence registration fees.
Learn to drive (Learner Stage)
With your learner's licence, you practice driving with a qualified supervising driver for a minimum of nine months.
You receive up to 25 hours of free one-on-one instruction with a professional driving instructor and vehicle, scheduled around your availability.
Pass the Road Test
Passing your road test moves you into the Intermediate Stage, where you can drive on your own (with Intermediate Stage restrictions).
The program covers road test fees. Where arranged, your instructor can accompany you, and you may use the training vehicle for the test.
Keep driving toward a Full licence
After 15 months in the Intermediate Stage, you graduate to a Full Class 5 Licence.
You complete this stage on your own, with the skills and confidence this program helped you build.
A plan built around you
There is no single path through this program. During intake, MET will create an individualized action plan based on where you are in the licensing journey.
Starting from the beginning?
No experience and no learner's licence? You will complete the full pathway: ID and MPI registration support, classroom instruction for the Knowledge Test, then in-car training once you hold your learner's licence.
Already have your learner's licence?
Skip the classroom. You can register for behind-the-wheel training only and begin driving lessons right away.
Getting ready to take your road test?
Refine your skills with an instructor, get support booking and attending your road test, and use the training vehicle where arranged.
Program Details
Classroom Instruction
Class 5 Knowledge Test Preparation
Dates: August 17-21, 2026
Location: 150 Henry Avenue, Winnipeg, Manitoba
Schedule: Five hours per day for 25 hours total
The classroom portion of the pilot is designed for participants who have not yet obtained their Class 5 learner's licence. Instruction will cover Manitoba's rules of the road, safe driving practices and the information needed to prepare for the Class 5 Knowledge Test.
These dates apply only to the classroom portion of the program. After the pilot, additional classroom sessions will be offered on an ongoing basis as new dates are scheduled.
Behind-the-Wheel Training
Class 5 Road Test Preparation
Participants may receive up to 25 hours of one-on-one, in-vehicle driving instruction.
In-car lessons will take place in Winnipeg, MB and do not have fixed program dates. Training is scheduled individually through each participant's action plan and arranged around the availability of the participant and instructor.
Lessons may be available during the daytime, evenings or weekends. Training will focus on developing practical driving skills and preparing participants for the Class 5 Road Test.
What the program covers
Training is completely free. The program also covers:
- Licence testing fees (Knowledge Test and Road Test)
- Licence registration costs
- In-car training
- The cost of identification needed to register as an MPI client
The program does not cover fines, garnishments, or other outstanding personal debts.
Who can apply?
Applicants must:
- Be a Red River Métis Citizen (with proof of MMF Citizenship)
- Be 18 years of age or older
- Be willing to work with MET on MPI registration and any required identification
- Be available for daytime classroom instruction if completing the Knowledge Test component (August 17-21, 2026)
- Have no current licence suspensions or penalties
- Must be able to attend all classroom instruction and in-car training sessions in Winnipeg, MB
*If you have already passed your Knowledge Test, you can apply for behind-the-wheel training only.
How registration works
Express your interest
Complete the online form with your contact information, current licensing status, and availability.
Complete MET intake
MET Recruitment will confirm eligibility, collect any required documentation, and build your individualized action plan with you.
Begin your journey
Approved participants receive their training plan, schedule, and next steps.
Get ready for the road. Express your interest!
Complete the form below and MET Recruitment will contact you regarding eligibility, intake, and registration.
Frequently asked questions
How much does the program cost?
Nothing. Training is free. The program covers testing fees, registration costs, driving hours, and identification needed to register with MPI. It does not cover fines, garnishments, or other outstanding personal debts.
Are the August 2026 dates for the whole program?
No. Those dates are for the classroom portion of the pilot only. In-car lessons are scheduled individually. After the pilot, additional classroom sessions will be offered as new dates are scheduled.
I have no driving experience and no learner's licence. Can I apply?
Yes. You will start with classroom instruction for the Knowledge Test, then move into in-car training once you have your learner's licence.
I already have my learner's licence. Can I join?
Yes. You can register for behind-the-wheel training only and start driving lessons right away.
When do driving lessons happen?
In-car lessons have no fixed program dates. They are scheduled through your action plan and may take place during the day, in the evening, or on weekends. Only the classroom week requires daytime availability.
How long does it take to get a full licence?
Manitoba's GDL system requires a minimum of nine months in the Learner Stage before the road test, and 15 months in the Intermediate Stage after it. This program supports you through the Learner Stage and road test. Timelines depend on your individual plan and MPI requirements.
Is the Road Test included?
The program covers road test fees and preparation. Where arranged, your instructor can accompany you to the test, and you may use the training vehicle.
Do I need to register with MPI before I apply?
No. Start by expressing your interest. During intake, MET will work with you on MPI registration and any identification you need.
I don't have ID to register with MPI. Can the program help?
Yes. The program covers costs associated with obtaining the identification needed to register as an MPI client, and MET Recruitment will walk through what you need during intake.
Does the program guarantee I will pass?
No. It provides instruction, preparation, and support, but does not guarantee a passing result or the issuance of a licence.
Does submitting the form guarantee a spot?
No. Space may be limited. MET Recruitment will confirm eligibility and registration with selected participants.
What happens after I submit the form?
MET Recruitment will review your information and contact you about eligibility, required documentation, and next steps.
What is the age requirement?
Applicants must be 18 years of age or older.
What if I have outstanding fines or garnishments?
The program cannot cover fines, garnishments, or other personal debts, and applicants must have no current suspensions or penalties. Contact MET Recruitment if you have questions about your situation.
Ready to start your journey?
From your first day of class to the moment you pass your road test, this program gives Red River Métis Citizens the training, support, and coverage to get on the road.
For more information, contact MET Recruitment
METRecruitment@mmf.mb.ca | 204-586-8474 ext. 2731
