SGI introduces program to help immigrants to Saskatchewan obtain driver’s license

SGI, Saskatchewan’s public insurer, has introduced its Immigrant Driver Education Grant Program, which provides funds to help immigrants to Saskatchewan obtain a driver’s license.
SGI is making Cdn$125,000 available for refugees and immigrants who have taken up permanent residency in Saskatchewan and who legally require driver education to obtain a Saskatchewan Class 5 driver’s licence.
“For some new immigrants coming to Saskatchewan, the lack of a driver’s licence is a barrier to gaining or retaining meaningful employment,” Crown Corporations Minister Ken Cheveldayoff said. “We understand having a valid driver’s licence can enhance a person’s life and significantly increase their options for employment.
“With at least 10,000 immigrants coming to our province annually, we want to help them build a successful life in Saskatchewan.”
The funding is available to those who have not previously completed a certified driver education course, allowing them to obtain the required six hours of in-class and six hours of in-car training.
To be eligible for the funding, applicants must:
•    hold a valid Class 7 learner’s licence;
•    submit a signed application form that authorizes SGI to verify the applicant’s driving eligibility;
•    be a Saskatchewan resident;
•    provide the name of the driver educator/school being hired and the amount of funding required;
•    provide a copy of immigration documents outlining the applicant’s status; and
•    have a reasonable understanding of the English language in order to comprehend the training course.
The amount of funding an applicant will receive is determined by how much training is needed and by the total number of applications.
Funding will be distributed throughout the province and applicants will be required to complete all training within three months of approval in order to guarantee funding.