Online knowledge testChanges to the Graduated Licensing Program
We’ve updated British Columbia’s Graduated Licensing Program (GLP) while still maintaining our high safety standards for driver testing and licensing.
Drivers with a Class 7 novice or Class 7, 8 novice licence and a clean driving record no longer take a second road test to get a Class 5 licence with restrictions.
Instead, these drivers are subject to a Driving Record Assessment, where they must demonstrate safe driving to be eligible to upgrade their licence, followed by a 12-month restriction period.
Why ICBC made these changes
The GLP was introduced more than 25 years ago and it’s time we made some changes to align B.C. with evolving road safety practices and graduated licensing programs in other jurisdictions.
Road safety remains our top priority. The GLP continues to allow new drivers and riders to develop the skills they need to be safe on our roads.
Removing the second road test also means reducing barriers to getting licensed, especially for drivers in rural, remote and Indigenous communities, where access to road tests may be limited.
How do these changes affect you?
Answer a few quick questions for a more detailed overview of how these changes may impact you.
What type of B.C. licence do you currently have?
Driving Record Assessment
The Driving Record Assessment replaced the second road test, as of October 19, 2026.
You can upgrade from a Class 7 or 7, 8 licence to a Class 5 or 5, 6 licence, provided you meet all of the following criteria:
At least 24 months of safe driving if you’re under 25 years old
If you completed an approved GLP course during the learner phase, this can be reduced to 18 months
At least 12 months of safe driving if you’re 25 or older
No convictions for excessive speed or use of electronic devices during that time
No prohibitions or suspensions during that time
Once you meet all the criteria, you must visit your nearest driver licensing office to upgrade your licence, either by appointment or as a walk-in customer. You can book an appointment online at an ICBC driver licensing office (not a Service BC location or driver licensing agent). When booking, select the “Driving Record Assessment” service type.
