Moving to British Columbia and need to transfer your driver’s license? This guide will help you navigate the process smoothly, covering everything from requirements and costs to timelines and eligibility
Steps to Transfer Your Driver’s License to BC
1. Determine Your Eligibility:
- You have 90 days to switch your valid out-of-province or international license to a BC driver’s license.
- Exceptions include visitors, students, and temporary workers with specific permits.
2. Prepare Your Documents:
- Required ID (see the full list of Accepted ID by ICBC)
- Your current driver’s license
- Proof of driving experience (at least two years if you want to bypass BC’s Graduated Licensing Program)
3. Book an Appointment:
- Schedule an appointment at an ICBC Driver Licensing Office to apply for your BC license.
4. Complete the Knowledge and Road Tests (if necessary):
- If your country is not part of the reciprocal licensing agreement, you’ll need to pass both the knowledge test and the road test. Practice the knowledge test online here.
5. Pay the Required Fees:
- Fees vary based on the type of license and testing required. Refer to the ICBC Fees page for detailed information.
6. Exchange Your Old License:
- BC law requires you to surrender your previous license when you qualify for a new BC driver’s license.
Important Questions Answered
Transferring your driver’s license and understanding the road rules in BC are crucial steps for newcomers. We’ve gathered answers to important questions to help you through this transition. Check the FAQs below for detailed guidance on how to get your driver’s license and start driving in BC.
You can drive in BC with a valid out-of-province or international license for up to 90 days. After that, you must exchange it for a BC driver’s license. Special exemptions apply for tourists, full-time students, and temporary foreign workers in the Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program (SAWP). For more details and to see if you are exempt please See ICBC’s Guidance
Yes, a foreigner can get a driver’s license in Canada. If you have moved to BC, you can use your foreign license for 90 days. After that, you’ll need to apply for a BC license. Depending on your country of origin, you may need to pass both a Knowledge Test and an ICBC road test unless your country is part of a reciprocal agreement with BC.
BC has reciprocal license exchange agreements with many countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, Germany, Japan, South Korea, and more. If you’re from one of these countries, you can exchange your license without additional testing. If your country isn’t on the list, you may need to pass both a Knowledge Test and an ICBC road test.
To get a driver’s license in BC, you must pass a knowledge test and a road test, unless you qualify for a reciprocal license exchange. Newcomers from countries with a reciprocal agreement can directly exchange their license. Others may need to go through the Graduated Licensing Program (GLP) if they lack the required two years of driving experience.
If you’re moving to British Columbia, you have 90 days to switch your valid out-of-province or international driver’s license to a BC driver’s license. To do this, you’ll need to visit an ICBC driver licensing office, bringing your current driver’s license, proof of ID, driving experience, and payment for the applicable fees.
Why Driver Training Matters for Newcomers to BC
Adapting to new driving rules and road conditions in British Columbia can be challenging for newcomers. Taking driver training helps you understand these rules, gain confidence, and ensure safety on the road. It’s especially important for those who need to pass the BC knowledge and road tests. Proper training can also lead to better insurance rates and a smoother driving experience in Canada.
We offer specialized courses tailored for permanent residents and those new to Canada, designed to help you quickly adapt to driving in BC. Whether you need to refresh your driving skills, learn about BC’s road rules, or prepare for the knowledge and road tests, our courses will ensure you’re ready to drive safely and confidently.
Explore our specialized courses for newcomers to Canada below.
ICBC Driver’s License Fees in British Columbia
- 5-year License Renewal: $75
- 2-year License Reinstatement: $31
- Knowledge Test Fee: $15 (Free for seniors 65+)
- Class 5 or 6 Road Test Fee: $50
- Commercial Class 1 Road Test Fee: $60
For a full list of current fees, visit the ICBC Fees page.