BC Licensing

BC’s Graduated Licensing Program (GLP)

British Columbia’s Graduated Licensing Program is a two-stage process – the Learner’s (L) stage and the Novice (N) stage.  As you gain more driving experience, the graduated licensing restrictions are gradually removed.

Pre-Learner (Pre-licence)

Not permitted to drive. Prepare for the Learner’s stage – Study Learn to Drive Smart and practice the Knowledge Test.When ready, take the Knowledge Test($15)

Begin the 2 stage Graduated Licensing Program (GLP).Class 7L Learner’s Licence ($10)

Repeat Knowledge Test another day ($15)

Learner (Class 7L licence)

Permitted to drive under restrictions:

  • Qualified supervisor required
  • No cellphones or electronic devices
  • Passenger restriction
  • Driving hours restricted
  • Must display L sign
  • Zero blood-alcohol content

Must practice driving for a minimum of 60 hours. Study and use Tuning Up for Drivers. Learner stage – Minimum of 12 months When ready, take the Class 7 Road Test ($35)

Class 7 Novice Licence ($75)

Repeat Class 7 Road Test after minimum of 14 days ($35)

Novice (Class 7 licence)

Permitted to drive under restrictions:

  • No cellphones or electronic devices
  • Must display N sign
  • Zero blood-alcohol content
  • Can carry only one passenger (family exempt)

Continue to practice driving. Novice stage – Minimum of 24 months, reduced by 6 months if Novice requirements are met: ICBC approved drivers education course, no tickets or at-fault crashes When ready, take the Class 5 Road Test ($50).

Class 5 Driver’s Licence ($17 or $75 depending on when your licence will expire)

Repeat Class 5 Road Test after minimum of 7 days ($50)

Full-Privilege Driver (Class 5 licence)

Permitted to drive without GLP restrictions.

In both stages, you can be prohibited from driving under certain circumstances.

For further information about BC’s Graduated Licensing Program

Licensing Authority

The Insurance Corporation of British Columbia (ICBC) is in charge of licensing for all BC drivers.  ICBC conducts the written exam and road test needed for the GLP program.  They also provide the Learn to Drive Smart study guide to help you get ready for the tests.

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