How licensing works in BC
BC uses a Graduated Licensing Program (GLP). You start as a learner (L), become a novice (N) after the Class 7 road test, and get a full Class 5 licence after the Class 5 road test. Each stage has its own rules.
| Stage | How you get it | Minimum time |
|---|---|---|
| Learner (Class 7L) | Be 16 and pass the knowledge test | At least 12 months |
| Novice (Class 7) | Pass the Class 7 road test | 24 consecutive months without a prohibition (6 months less with an approved course and a clean record) |
| Full (Class 5) | Pass the Class 5 road test | No limit |
Learner (L) rules
- Supervisor: must sit beside you, be 25 or older and hold a valid Class 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5 licence.
- Passengers: a maximum of two: your supervisor plus one other person.
- Hours: drive only between 5 a.m. and midnight.
- L sign on the back windshield or rear of the vehicle.
- Zero alcohol and zero drugs, including cannabis (THC).
- No electronic devices, hand-held or hands-free.
Your learner’s licence is valid for two years. To renew it, you must retake the knowledge test. ICBC recommends at least 60 hours of practice before your road test.
Novice (N) rules
- N sign on the back windshield or rear of the vehicle.
- One passenger only, unless the others are immediate family, a qualified supervisor (25+, Class 1–5) sits beside you, or you are in a lesson with a licensed instructor.
- Zero alcohol and drugs and no electronic devices, the same as for learners.
A driving prohibition during the novice stage erases the time you have built up. After you are allowed to drive again, you need another 24 consecutive months without a prohibition. A prohibition during the learner stage makes the learner stage longer.
The ICBC knowledge test
The test has 50 multiple-choice questions and you need 40 correct (80%). It covers road signs, rules of the road and safe driving. It is not open book, and phones and other electronic devices are not allowed.
- Languages: English, French, Arabic, Cantonese, Croatian, Farsi, Mandarin, Punjabi, Russian, Spanish and Vietnamese.
- What to bring: primary and secondary ID and the fee. If you are under 19, a custodial parent or legal guardian must come with you.
- Timing: arrive at least one hour before the office closes.
- Retakes: if you fail, wait one day before you try again.
- Online option: ICBC also has an online knowledge test page. Check it for the current rules.
Rules that are specific to BC
Speed limits
- 50 km/h in cities and towns and 80 km/h outside them, unless a sign says otherwise.
- 20 km/h in lanes and alleys inside municipalities, unless posted.
- School zones: usually 30 km/h from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on school days. Check the tab under the sign, because hours and limits can vary.
- Playground zones: 30 km/h every day from dawn to dusk.
School zone: slow down on school days. Playground ahead: 30 km/h from dawn to dusk.
Other BC rules
- Keep a two-second following distance in good conditions.
- You may turn right on a red light after a full stop when the way is clear, unless a sign forbids it.
- Winter tires or chains are required on roads where a sign says so.
- Smoking in a vehicle with a passenger under 16 is illegal.
Test-day tips
- Check your ID before you leave home. Bring a parent or guardian if you are under 19.
- Leave your phone away. Devices are not allowed during the test.
- Read each question twice. Watch for words like “learner” or “novice”, because the rules differ.
- If two answers look right, choose the safest legal choice.
Keep studying
This guide covers BC’s own licensing rules and speed zones. The general rules of the road, such as right-of-way, signals, lanes, parking and school buses, are in the national Canada driving study guide. Read it as well, and use Learn to Drive Smart for the full details.