Vancouver: To modernize British Columbia’s Graduated Licensing Program (GLP) while maintaining high standard of safety, the Government of B.C. has passed legislation to allow ICBC, in partnership with RoadSafety BC, to make suitable changes.

ICBC has shared details on its website and stated that in 2026, drivers with a Class 7 Novice licence and a clean driving record won’t need to take a second road test to get a Class 5 licence. This change will also introduce a 12-month restriction period, during which drivers must demonstrate safe driving behavior.

“We also intend to introduce a new motorcycle licensing program with enhanced licensing requirements and safety measures, such as protective gear, that will help reduce motorcycle-related fatalities and injuries.” said ICBC.

Ontario and B.C. are the only provinces in Canada that require drivers to pass a second road test to exit the GLP. ICBC has reviewed other graduated licensing programs around the world, which indicated that an individual’s driving record is a reliable alternative to a second road test.

“There’s been no known evaluation that indicates a second road test reduces a driver’s involvement in crashes. However, research shows that a clean driving record, maintained over a longer period of time , is a reliable alternative to a second road test.”

To reduce barriers to licensing, Government has proposed a shorter period of driving experience for drivers who are over 25 years old: these drivers will need at least nine months of safe driving as a learner, then 12 months as a novice.

All drivers in the GLP will be subject to a 12-month period of driving restrictions after getting their Class 5 licence.  After driving safely during that period, they’ll earn full Class 5 driving privileges.

ICBC authorities said  they will  be working closely with RoadSafetyBC and other key partners to make sure the changes maintain a high standard of road safety.

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