If you’re new to British Columbia and want to drive legally, the first thing you’ll need is a valid BC driver’s license. Whether you’re moving from another province or immigrating from outside Canada, the process to get your driver’s license in BC is straightforward—but it’s important to know which steps apply to your situation.
This guide walks you through how to apply, what documents you need, how to take the knowledge test, and what to expect from the road test in BC.
Who Needs to Apply?
You need to apply for a BC driver’s license if:
- You’re a new immigrant or permanent resident in BC
- You’re a student or temporary foreign worker
- You’re moving to BC from another Canadian province or country
- You’ve been in BC longer than 90 days using an international license
Step 1: Prepare Your ID and Documents
To apply, bring the following to your nearest ICBC Driver Licensing Office:
- Primary ID (passport, PR card, Canadian ID)
- Proof of BC residence (utility bill, rental agreement)
- Your current valid driver’s license (from your home country or province)
- Translation of your license (if not in English)
Step 2: Exchange or Start the Graduated Licensing Program (GLP)
ICBC will assess whether you can exchange your current license or must start from scratch.
- If you’re from a recognized country (e.g., USA, UK, Germany, Korea, etc.), you may exchange your licensewithout retesting.
- If your license isn’t eligible for exchange, you’ll need to go through the GLP system, which includes a knowledge test and two road tests (L and N).
📌 Practice the BC Knowledge Test with this free quiz
Step 3: Take the BC Knowledge Test
If you’re required to start the process, you must first pass a 50-question multiple-choice knowledge test. You can take this test at any ICBC office.
💡 Bring your ID, pay the $15 test fee, and study the Learn to Drive Smart Manual.
Step 4: Get Your Learner’s (L) License
After passing the knowledge test:
- You’ll receive an L license
- You must display an L sign on your car
- You’ll need a supervisor when driving (Class 5+ license holder, 25+ years old)
Step 5: Book and Pass the Road Test
Once you meet the learner requirements or are allowed to challenge the road test directly, you can book your Class 5 or Class 7 road test.
📌 Check out our tips for passing the Knowledge Test in Surrey and practise with free quiz.
Up to 90 days after becoming a BC resident.
$15 for the knowledge test + $35–$75 for each road test.
Yes, the knowledge test is available in multiple languages.
The first step is to pass the BC Knowledge Test, which includes 50 multiple-choice questions about road signs and rules. Once passed, you receive your Class 7 Learner’s License.
You must be at least 16 years old to apply. If you’re under 19, you’ll need a parent or guardian’s consent.
The GLP is a two-stage process that includes the Class 7L (Learner’s) and Class 7 (Novice) licenses before you get your full Class 5 license.
You must hold your Class 7L license for at least 12 months before taking the Class 7 road test.
Yes, and it’s highly recommended. You can take lessons from certified instructors or drive with a qualified supervisor (25+ years old with a Class 5 license).
Costs vary, but the Knowledge Test is $15, the Learner’s License is $10, and the Class 7 road test is $35. Additional costs apply for lessons and photo ID.
From Learner to Class 5 typically takes about 3 years, depending on when you take and pass your tests.
📌 Disclaimer:
This blog is for informational purposes only and is based on general guidelines available as of 2025. For the most accurate, up-to-date, and official information about driver’s licensing in British Columbia, please visit the official ICBC website or contact an ICBC Driver Licensing Office directly.
