Learner’s Licence (Get Your L):

The initial step toward becoming a driver in B.C. is obtaining a learner’s License, commonly known as “Get your L.” To apply, individuals must be at least 16 years old, and those under 19 require a parent or guardian’s application signature. After passing the multiple-choice knowledge test, a learner’s License is granted, allowing a minimum 12-month practice period under the supervision of a licensed driver. Subsequently, a road test can be taken to progress to the next stage.

This License entails significant restrictions, such as:

– Displaying a magnetic, red “L” sign on the back of the car during driving.

– Driving with a supervising passenger aged 25 or older with a valid full license.

– Strict prohibition of alcohol and drugs in the driver’s system.

– Allowing only one additional passenger besides the supervising driver.

– Prohibiting driving between midnight to 5 a.m.

– Restricting the use of handheld electronic devices.

Novice Licence (Get Your N):

Progressing to the next stage involves obtaining a novice license, also referred to as “Get your N.” To acquire this License, you must successfully pass a 45-minute Class 7 road test. Preparation for the road test can include professional driving lessons and gaining extensive driving experience as an L driver in diverse road conditions. The test evaluates your ability to drive safely and maintain control.

Upon passing the Class 7 road test, you’ll be granted a novice license, allowing independent driving. However, certain restrictions apply, including:

• Displaying a reflective green N sign on the back of the vehicle while driving.
• Strict prohibition of alcohol and drugs in your system.
• Limiting passengers to one (except immediate family) unless accompanied by a supervising driver aged 25 and older with a full license.
• Complete prohibition of handheld electronic device use, including Bluetooth or voice commands, except in emergencies when calling 911.

Full License:

Achieving a full Class 5 driver’s License marks the culmination of B.C.’s graduation program. Eligibility for a full license is granted after two years of safe driving as a novice driver and successful completion of the Class 5 road test. In certain cases, you may qualify for the Class 5 road test after 18 months if you’ve completed an ICBC-approved driver training course during the learner’s stage and met all other requirements.

The 45-minute Class 5 road test evaluates various aspects of your driving capability, including precise vehicle control, highway driving, merging, parking, and hazard awareness.

Key regulations for a full license include:

– Ensuring every vehicle you drive has basic auto insurance.

– Maintaining a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of no more than 0.05 percent, with strict adherence to legal limits for safe and responsible driving.

New Residents and International Students/Workers:

If you’re a new resident in B.C. holding a valid driver’s License from another province or country, you’re allowed to use it for the first 90 days. Within this period, you must apply for a B.C. license. International students or temporary foreign workers with a federal work permit can use their home country or province’s valid License for up to 12 months. After 12 months, a B.C. driver’s License is required for extended stays.

Applying for a Driver’s Licence in B.C. from Scratch as a Novice:

For those without an existing license aiming to obtain a B.C. driver’s License:

1. Eligibility: You must be at least 16 years old to apply.

2. Preparation: Study the Learn to Drive Smart guide to prepare for the knowledge test.

3. Appointment: Book an appointment at an ICBC driver licensing office.

4. Fee Payment: Pay a CAD 15 fee.

5. Documentation: Bring one primary and one secondary piece of valid, original I.D., undergo a vision screening, and if under 19, present a signed consent form by a parent or guardian.

6. Knowledge Test: Take the multiple-choice knowledge test and answer at least 40 out of 50 questions.

7. Learner’s License: Upon passing, receive your learner’s License, marking the beginning of the 12-month novice stage. After this period, you can apply for a novice license.

Applying for a New Driver’s Licence in British Columbia Based on Previous Driving Experience:

Suppose you possess a valid license from your home country and wish to obtain a driver’s License in British Columbia based on your previous driving experience. In that case, you may fall into one of the following categories:

• Moving from a Country with a Reciprocal Arrangement for a Driver’s Licence:
  • Eligible Countries: United States, Austria, Australia, Belgium, France, Germany, Guernsey, Isle of Man, Ireland, Jersey, Japan, Netherlands, New Zealand, South Korea (excluding motorcycles), Switzerland, Taiwan (excluding motorcycles), United Kingdom (including England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland).
  • Process: Exchange your existing License from your home country at an ICBC office.
  • Key Eligibility Criteria: Proof of previous driving experience of at least two years on a full license.
  • Steps Involved:
    • Book an appointment at an ICBC driver licensing office.
    • Bring two forms of original or certified true copy of accepted I.D. showing your full legal name and date of birth.
    • Present your current, valid foreign driver’s License.
    • Provide proof of driving experience.
    • Pay the fee: The cost of a five-year license renewal in B.C. is CAD 75 plus tax.

If You Have Less Than Two Years of Driving Experience in a Reciprocal Country:

If you have less than two years of driving experience in a country with a reciprocal arrangement, and you hold a learner’s permit or lack the required experience, you cannot directly swap it for a B.C. driver’s License. Instead, you’ll need to enter the Graduated Licensing Program. This involves taking a knowledge test, undergoing a vision test, and progressing through the graduate program from learner to novice to a full license.

Moving from a Country with No Reciprocal Arrangement for Driver’s Licence:

For those moving from a country without a reciprocal agreement with British Columbia:

• Steps Involved:
  • Prepare: Study the Learn to Drive Smart guide and take a practice knowledge test online.
  • Book an Appointment: Schedule a visit to an ICBC driver licensing office.
  • Documentation: Bring two forms of original or certified true copy of accepted I.D. showing your full legal name and date of birth.
  • Present Your Licence: Provide your current, valid foreign driver’s License and proof of driving experience.
  • Knowledge Test: Pay a CAD 15 fee for the knowledge test.
  • Learner’s Licence: Upon passing the knowledge test, you’ll receive a learner’s License.
  • Class 5 Road Test: If eligible, book a Class 5 road test.
  • Bring a Qualified Driver: Bring another qualified driver to the Class 5 road test appointment.
  • Pay the Fee: Pay a CAD 50 fee for the Class 5 road test.
  • Full Licence: Upon passing the Class 5 road test, you’ll receive your full British Columbia Driver’s License.

Certainly! Here’s the information presented in a table format:

Situation	Reciprocal Agreement with B.C.	Driving Experience Requirement	Knowledge Test Requirement	Road Test Requirement
Less than 2 years of driving experience in a country with no reciprocal agreement	No	Yes	Yes (L licence issued after passing)	Yes (Full licence issued after passing)
Less than 2 years of driving experience in a country with a reciprocal agreement	Yes	Yes	No	No
Applying for the Graduated Licensing Program	–	Yes	Yes	Yes (Progressing from Learner’s to Novice to Full Licence)

Driving Extract Requirements:

• Written on official letterhead
• In English or translated by an ICBC-approved translator if in another language
• Signed by the licensing authority
• Includes name, date of birth, driver’s license number
• Indicates class/type of License held
• Specifies original issuance date and duration held
• Provides licensing authority’s name, address, and phone number

Fee Structure for a B.C. Driver’s Licence:

Item	Cost (CAD)
Knowledge Test	$15
Five-year Licence Renewal	$75
Five-year Licence Renewal for 65+	$17
Replacement or Upgraded Licence	$17
First Two-year Licence (non-learner drivers moving to B.C.)	$31
First Five-year GLP N (novice) Licence	$31
Two-year Licence Reinstatement	$31

What You Need to Know About Driving in British Columbia:

Whether you’re a seasoned driver or new to the roads, it’s crucial to acquaint yourself with British Columbia’s driving rules. Here are key road rules to be aware of:

• Seatbelt Usage:

You and your passengers must always wear seatbelts while driving.

• Variable Speed Limits:

Some B.C. highways display variable speed limits based on real-time traffic and weather conditions. Failure to obey can result in fines and penalty points.

• Speed Limits:
  • Speed is measured in kilometers per hour.
  • Maximum speeds: 30 km/hour in school zones, 50 km/hour in cities, towns, and villages, 80 km/hour on rural roads, and 110-120 km/hour on major highways.
• Cyclist Awareness:
  • Cyclists must follow road rules, and drivers must be aware of cyclists.
• Right Turn on Red:

It is legal to turn right at a red light after a complete stop unless prohibited by a sign.

• Four-Way Stop:

Come to a complete stop at four-way stops, and drivers take turns based on arrival.

• School Bus Stop:

Drivers must stop for stopped school buses with flashing red lights and a stop sign.

• Pedestrian Crossings:

Come to a complete stop at pedestrian crossings and school crossing guards.

• Move Over Law:

Slow down and move over for vehicles with flashing red, blue, or yellow lights.

• Distracted Driving:

Handheld use of mobile phones is not permitted; failure to comply results in fines and points against your License.

• Impaired Driving:

Driving under the influence is illegal; B.C. has strict rules, with a maximum legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.05 percent.

• Passing Rules:

It is legal to pass on the right or left, but passing on the left is generally safer and more common.

• Car Insurance Requirement:

It is illegal to drive in British Columbia without valid car insurance; fines may be imposed for non-compliance.

Winter Driving Tips from the Canada Safety Council:

The Canada Safety Council offers valuable winter driving tips to ensure safety on icy and snowy roads. Here are some important considerations:

1. Vehicle Preparation:

   – Ensure your vehicle is winter-ready, including checking brakes, fluids, and heating systems.

2. Winter Tires:

   – Invest in winter tires for improved traction on ice and snow.

3. Smooth and Slow Driving:

   – Drive smoothly and at a reduced speed to maintain control in winter conditions.

4. Avoid Tailgating:

   – Keep a safe following distance to allow for safe stopping in icy conditions.

5. Brake Before Turns:

   – Brake before making a turn to avoid skidding.

6. Headlights On in Snow:

   – Keep your lights on during snowfall for increased visibility.

Additional Advice:

– Familiarize Yourself with Local Driver’s License Process:

  – Learn about the process of obtaining a local driver’s License to ensure compliance with local regulations.

– Invest Time in Road Rules Knowledge:

  – Brush up on road rules before hitting the winter roads for a safer driving experience.

– Stay Safe on the Roads:

  – Having a provincial driver’s License provides the freedom to commute, explore, and enjoy road trips in British Columbia. Stay safe by being well-prepared and informed.