WINNIPEG, Man. — The Manitoba government rang in 2003 by putting full graduated licensing in effect for all new car and motorcycle drivers as of yesterday.

The full graduated licensing program is designed to improve road safety, says Transportation and Government Services Minister, Scott Smith. “This safety initiative will ensure new drivers have a longer opportunity to properly develop their skills before earning full driving privileges on Manitoba’s roads,” he says.

GDL applies to all new car and motorcycle drivers who applied for a learner’s licence on or before last April 1. Under the program, these drivers will have to go through a three-phase program before they have full driving privileges.

New car drivers will have to hold a learner’s licence for at least nine months before they can take a road test. When they graduate to the next stage, drivers will have to hold an intermediate licence for at least 15 months.

Novice motorcycle drivers will have to take a written test and complete a one-day, user-pay training course. They’ll also be restricted to riding during daylight hours, and won’t be able to carry passengers.