Getting my driver’s licence

Your first step is the learner licence. To get it, you pass a written knowledge test and a vision screening. You must be at least 16 to take the test.

If you are under 18, you also need a parent's or guardian's permission. As a learner, you can only drive with a supervisor in the car. Learners have other restrictions too, like displaying the L sign and zero alcohol or drugs, so check ICBC's full list before you get behind the wheel.

After some time practising as a learner, you take the Class 7 road test. How long you wait depends on your age:

• Under 25: you need to wait 12 months.
• 25 or over: you only need to wait 9 months.

Pass the road test and you move on to your novice (N) licence. Under the new rules, this is the only road test you will take.

Now you can drive on your own, but if you’re under 25 you still have to follow the novice rules:

• No alcohol or drugs.
• Display the N sign.
• No electronic devices.
• Only one passenger, not counting immediate family, unless you are driving with a supervisor. As of October 19, a supervisor can be as young as 22, but must hold a full Class 5 licence without the zero alcohol and drug restriction.

This stage matters more than ever, because your driving record is now what gets you your full licence. Tickets for unsafe driving, like excessive speeding or using a phone, can restart your novice period from the beginning.

The Driving Record Assessment replaces the old second road test. To upgrade from a Class 7 (N) licence to a Class 5 licence, you must meet all of these criteria:

• Under 25: at least 24 months of safe driving, or 18 months if you completed an approved GLP course during the learner phase. Taking the course without finishing it doesn’t count.
• 25 or older: at least 12 months of safe driving.
• No convictions for excessive speeding or using an electronic device during that time.
• No driving prohibitions or suspensions during that time.

Once you meet the criteria, visit your nearest driver licensing office to upgrade, either by appointment or as a walk-in. You can book an appointment online only at ICBC driver licensing offices, not Service BC locations or driver licensing agents. When booking, choose the “Driving Record Assessment” service type.

Already had your N before October 19? Some eligible drivers may get a one-time automatic upgrade without an in-office assessment. ICBC is sending letters to drivers already in the program explaining next steps, and its online tool shows how the changes apply to you. If you had a second road test booked on or after October 19, it has been cancelled, and ICBC will email you with next steps.

If you pass the assessment, you have your full licence, with one main restriction: no alcohol or drugs. You will also face closer scrutiny than experienced drivers if you get violations on your record during this time.

The restriction lifts after 12 months, and you hold a regular Class 5 licence with no restriction.