Changes are coming to the Graduated Licensing Program
We’re updating British Columbia’s Graduated Licensing Program (GLP) while maintaining our high safety standards for driver testing and licensing.
Effective October 19, 2026, drivers with a Class 7 novice or Class 7, 8 novice licence and a clean driving record will not take a second road test to get a Class 5 licence with restrictions.
Instead, these drivers will be 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.
Until the changes come into effect, you can still choose to take a road test to get a Class 5 licence.
If your second road test is on or after October 19, 2026, it will be cancelled. ICBC will email you to confirm the cancellation and your next steps.
Why ICBC is making 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 will continue to allow new drivers and riders to develop the skills they need to be safe on our roads.
Removing the second road test will also mean reducing barriers to getting licensed, especially for drivers in rural, remote and Indigenous communities, where access to road tests may be limited.
How will 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 is the step that replaces the second road test, effective October 19, 2026.
You'll be able to upgrade from a Class 7 or 7, 8 licence to a Class 5 or 5, 6 one, provided you meet all the following criteria:
At least 24 months of safe driving (or 18 months, if you've completed an approved GLP course during the learner phase) if you’re under 25 years old
If you take but do not complete an approved GLP course, you'll still need 24 months of safe driving
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
Effective October 19, once you’ve met all the criteria, you’ll need to visit your nearest driver licensing office to upgrade your licence, either by appointment or as a walk-in customer.
Starting that same date, 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.
