ICBC Frequently Asked Questions
- Class 1 BC licence
- Class 2 BC licence
- Class 3 BC licence
- Class 4 BC licence
- Class 5 BC licence
- Class 6 BC licence
- Class 7 BC licence
- Learner's licence (L) in BC
- Novice licence (N) in BC
- ICBC Knowledge and Road Test
- ICBC Points and Driving Violations FAQs
- British Columbia Motorcycle licence
- Miscellaneous
Class 1 BC Licence
What is a Class 1 licence in BC?
A Class 1 licence allows you to drive semi-trailers and tractor-trailers, as well as all other motor vehicles except motorcycles.
How to get a Class 1 licence in BC?
To get a Class 1 licence, you must be at least 19 years old, pass the medical exam, complete and pass the Class 1 knowledge test and road test, and pass the ICBC-approved driver training.
How much does it cost to get a Class 1 licence in BC?
The knowledge test fee is around $15. The road test fee is approximately $60. However, training fees may range from $10,000 to $15,000.
How to pass the Class 1 knowledge test?
Study the ICBC driving guide for commercial drivers, take practice tests, and get familiar with air brake systems and other regulations.
Class 2 BC Licence
What is a Class 2 licence in BC?
A Class 2 licence lets you drive buses with a seating capacity of more than 24 passengers (e.g., school buses, special activity buses).
How to get a Class 2 licence in BC?
To get a Class 2 BC licence, you must be at least 19 years old. You will need to pass the medical exam and Class 2 knowledge test, as well as complete the Class 2 road test.
Class 3 BC Licence
What is a Class 3 licence in BC?
A Class 3 licence allows you to drive large trucks with three or more axles, including dump trucks and tow trucks.
How to get a Class 3 licence in BC?
For a Class 3 licence, you must be at least 18 years old and take and pass the Class 3 knowledge test, road test, and medical exam.
What is a Class 3 vehicle?
Class 3 vehicles include trucks with three or more axles and vehicles towing trailers weighing more than 4,600 kg.
How much does it cost to get a Class 3 licence in BC?
The road test fee is around $60, with training fees possibly ranging from $5,000 to $7,000.
Class 4 BC Licence
What is a Class 4 licence in BC?
A Class 4 licence allows you to drive ambulances, taxis, and buses with 10-24 passengers.
How to get a Class 4 licence in BC?
To get a Class 4 British Columbia licence, you must be at least 19 years old and pass a medical exam and the Class 4 knowledge and road tests.
How to prepare for the Class 4 knowledge test?
Study the ICBC driving guides, particularly focusing on small bus, taxi, and ambulance operation.
Class 5 BC Licence
Can I drive Uber with a Class 5 licence in BC?
No, to drive for Uber, you need a Class 4 licence.
Is Class 5 your N licence?
No, Class 5 is a full driver’s licence, while "N" refers to the novice stage under the Graduated Licensing Program (GLP).
How to get a Class 5 licence in BC?
Pass the Class 5 road test after having your N licence for a minimum of two years.
Class 6 BC Licence
What is a Class 6 licence in BC?
A Class 6 licence allows you to operate motorcycles on BC roads.
Class 7 BC Licence
What is a Class 7 licence in BC?
A Class 7 licence is an N (Novice) licence under the Graduated Licensing Program (GLP).
Can Class 7 drivers drive on highways in BC?
Yes, Class 7 drivers can drive on highways but must follow specific restrictions.
Is Class 7 your N licence?
Yes, the Class 7 licence represents the N stage of BC’s GLP.
How to get a Class 7 licence in BC?
You must pass the Class 7 road test after holding your L (Learner) for at least 12 months.
Learner's Licence (L) in BC
How long do you have to have your L in BC?
You must hold your L licence for at least 12 months before taking the road test for your N.
How old do you have to be to get your learners in BC?
You need to be at least 16 years old to apply for your BC Learner's licence.
How many passengers with L in BC?
Learner drivers can only carry one passenger, who must be a qualified supervisor aged 25 or older.
How to get your L in BC?
You must pass the knowledge test and vision screening and pay the applicable fees.
Who can you drive with your L?
You can only drive with a qualified supervisor who is 25 years old or older and holds a valid Class 1-5 licence.
Novice Licence (N) in BC
How long do you have your N for in BC?
You must have your N for at least two years before you can take the Class 5 road test to get a full licence.
How to get your N in 6 months?
There are no shortcuts to getting your N earlier than the 12-month period for L drivers.
How many points to lose your N in BC?
If you accumulate more than three points, you may face penalties or suspension.
Can N drivers drive at night in BC?
Yes, but they are restricted to carrying only one passenger unless accompanied by a supervisor.
How many passengers can an N driver have in BC?
An N driver can have one passenger unless accompanied by a qualified supervisor.
What class is an N in BC?
An N falls under Class 7, representing the novice stage.
What are the restrictions for N drivers in BC?
N drivers can carry only one passenger, must display the N sign, and follow the zero-tolerance policy for alcohol.
When can you get your N in BC?
You can get your British Columbia N (Novice licence) after holding your L (Learner's licence) for at least 12 months and successfully passing the Class 7 road test. If you take an approved driver training course, you may be eligible to take the test after nine months instead of 12.
Is there a time restriction for N drivers in BC?
No, N drivers in BC can drive at any time of day or night. However, they must follow the restrictions specific to the N licence, like having only one passenger unless they are immediate family members or driving with a fully licenced adult.
Can you get your N early in BC?
Yes, you can get your N earlier if you complete an approved driver training course. Instead of waiting the usual 12 months, you can take the Class 7 road test after nine months with a certified course.
Can N drivers drive on highways?
Yes, N drivers are allowed to drive on highways, including major ones like the Trans-Canada Highway. However, they must follow all N restrictions, such as displaying the N sign and not using electronic devices while driving.
ICBC Knowledge and Road Test
How long is the ICBC knowledge test?
The ICBC knowledge test lasts around 30 minutes.
How much is the knowledge test in BC?
The knowledge test fee is approximately $15.
How to book an ICBC knowledge test?
You can book the test online through the ICBC website or by visiting a licensing office.
How to book the knowledge test online in BC?
To book the ICBC knowledge test online, visit the ICBC website and navigate to the "Book a Test" section. You'll need to create or log into your ICBC online account. From there, select the type of test you want to book, choose a location and date, and complete the payment process.
Is the ICBC knowledge test hard?
The difficulty of the ICBC knowledge test can vary depending on your familiarity with road rules and driving practices. Many find it manageable with proper preparation, especially if they study the "Learn to Drive Smart" guide and take practice tests.
What happens if you fail your driving test 3 times at ICBC?
If you fail your driving test three times, you will need to wait at least 30 days before you can attempt the test again. During this waiting period, it's a good idea to practice your driving skills and consider taking additional lessons to address any areas of concern. After the waiting period, you can book a new test.
How to pass the ICBC road test?
To pass the ICBC road test, practice essential driving maneuvers regularly and familiarize yourself with the test route. Always obey traffic rules, signal properly, and stay calm during the test.
Practice British Columbia Written Knowledge Test
Pass your British Columbia written test with our traffic laws, road signs, and Driving Questions.
ICBC Points and Driving Violations
How many points to lose your licence in BC?
Your licence can be suspended if you accumulate more than three points as a new driver.
How many points is a DUI in BC?
A DUI in BC results in 12 points.
How many points for speeding in BC?
Speeding typically results in three points, though this can vary based on severity.
How many points to suspend licence in BC?
Your BC driver's licence may be suspended if you accumulate too many penalty points:
- L (Learner) and N (Novice) drivers: A suspension occurs if you collect 4 or more penalty points within a 12-month period.
- Full (Class 5) licence holders: A suspension is possible if you accumulate more than 9 points within a 12-month period.
British Columbia Motorcycle Licence
How long does it take to get a motorcycle licence in BC?
It can take around 24 months if following the graduated licensing process.
How old do you have to be to get a motorcycle licence in BC?
You must be at least 16 years old and have parental consent if under 19.
Practice British Columbia Motorcycle Test
Get your British Columbia Motorcycle License on Your First Attempt!
Miscellaneous
How old do you have to be to drive in BC?
You must be at least 16 years old to apply for a learner’s licence in BC.
How much is a BC driver's licence?
A BC driver's licence costs around $31 per year for renewals.
Where to get N sign BC?
You can get an N sign from any ICBC driver licensing office. They are available for free when you pass your Class 7 road test and receive your N licence. Additionally, you can purchase magnetic or sticker versions from various retailers like Canadian Tire or online.
How to get a truck licence in BC?
To get a Class 1 (truck) licence in BC, which allows you to drive semi-trailer trucks, you must be at least 19, hold a valid Class 5 or 6 full licence, pass the medical exam, complete a knowledge test for commercial driving, and pass the Class 1 road test. You may benefit from completing an approved commercial driver training program before taking the tests.
Can you drive at 14 in BC?
No, you cannot drive at 14 in BC. The minimum age to apply for a Learner’s (L) licence is 16 years old. You must pass the knowledge test and vision screening to get your L licence.
How to renew a Learner's licence in BC?
To renew your Learner's (L) licence in BC, visit an ICBC driver licensing office in person and bring your current L licence and identification and renewal fee. There’s no need for an additional test if your licence hasn’t expired, but if it’s expired for over three years, you may need to retake the knowledge test.