British Columbia is set to make the first major change to its Graduated Licencing Program in 25 years.
Legislation introduced by the government to streamline the process by eliminating the need for a second in-vehicle examination is expected to pass in the coming days, and come into effect in 2026.
As of now, drivers must complete three assessments to obtain a Class 5 license: the multiple-choice Learners test, the Class 7 (Novice) road test, and final Class 5 road test. There is no obligation to move past the N stage, though drivers must wait 24 months — or 18 months with "approved driver training" — before taking the latter test.
Under the new rules, drivers must spend a certain amount of time in the N stage — 24 months for those under 25 and 12 months for those 25 and older — before being given a restricted full licence. If none of the rules are broken in the following 12 months, they earn full privileges.
"These changes are intended to improve road safety for new drivers and motorcyclists by ensuring they gain more on-road experience, and improve licencing accessibility by addressing barriers experienced by indigenous and rural and remote communities," Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General Garry Begg said. "By removing unnecessary barriers for new drivers and strengthening safety measures for new riders, we're making the licencing system more accessible, while helping to reduce serious injuries and fatalities on our roads."
His sentiments were shared by ICBC CEO David Wong, who said he was "looking forward to working with government and our partners to both build on those improvements and ensure new drivers and riders are confident and ready to safely travel on our roads."
Also included in the legislation are proposed changes to the Motorcyclist Licencing Program that would "ensure new riders gain the unique skills required to ride safely" via "a restriction period and enhanced safety measure requirements for protective gear."