Driving

Getting my driver’s licence

Driving Drugs/Alcohol

Last Reviewed:

June, 2025

Reviewed By:

JES Legal Specialist

driving-school-concept-male-instructor-examining
BIG IDEA

In BC you need to go through a graduated licensing program through ICBC before you can get your full licence.

Roadmap to your licence

Step 1: Get you L (learner’s licence): Pass a written knowledge test and a vision screening. You must be at least 16 to take the test. If you are under 19, you’ll need your parents' permission too. (Between text): Drive for at least 12 months with supervision. Can take a driving course.

Step 2: Get your N (novice licence): Practice driving 1 year with supervisor and pass the Class 7 road test (Between text):

Step 3: Get your full licence: Drive safely for 2 years and pass the Class 5 road test. If you take an ICBC approved driving course during your L stage and drive safely, you could take your Class 5 test after only 18 months.

Hot Tip

If you already have a licence from a different province or country and are moving to BC you generally have 90 days to switch your licence to a BC licence but there are exceptions! See Moving and Your Licence to dig deeper.

Can I use my phone while driving?

Dig Deeper

Distracted Driving, People’s Law School

Safety

Protect your personal info! Don’t post pictures of your licence.

Anatomy of an L Driver

  • Must have a supervisor in the front passenger seat. They must be 25+ years old with a valid full licence
  • Display your L sign on the back of your car when driving
  • Zero alcohol or drugs in your blood
  • No driving between midnight and 5am
  • No hand-held or hands-free cellphones or electronic devices
  • Only one extra passenger in addition to a supervisor
  • Your L is good for 2 years. If you need more time you can retake the knowledge test

Hot Tip

Penalties are Strict. If you violate these restrictions you can get tickets or other penalties. You could even be made to repeat steps!

Anatomy of an N Driver

  • Display your N sign on the back of your car
  • Zero alcohol or drugs in your blood
  • No hand-held or even hands-free cellphones or electronic devices
  • Only one passenger (not including immediate family) unless you also have a supervisor who is age 25+ with full valid licence

Dig Deeper

Graduated Licensing, learn more through ICBC