BC’s Graduated Licensing Program Is Changing: What New Drivers Need to Know
Starting October 19, 2026, British Columbia is making its biggest update to the Graduated Licensing Program (GLP) in more than 25 years. The goal is to put greater focus on safe driving habits and real-world experience, rather than relying on a second road test.
If you are working toward your licence—or planning to start soon—here’s what the changes mean.
What’s Changing?
Currently, new drivers must:
- Pass the Class 7 knowledge test
- Pass the Class 7 road test to receive an N licence
- Complete the required Novice period
- Pass a second Class 5 road test for a full licence
From October 19, 2026, eligible drivers will no longer need the second Class 5 road test. Instead, they will move through:
- Driving Record Assessment (DRA)
- 12-month Restricted Class 5 licence
- Full Class 5 licence
The Class 7 (N) road test remains required.
How the New System Works
1. Driving Record Assessment
After completing the required Novice period, ICBC will review your driving record. This is not an in-car test or appointment.
If you meet the requirements and have a satisfactory driving record, you can receive a Restricted Class 5 licence.
2. Restricted Class 5
You will then spend 12 months under the Restricted Class 5 conditions while continuing to demonstrate safe driving.
This includes requirements such as:
- Zero blood alcohol while driving
- Zero blood drug content while driving
- Maintaining a satisfactory driving record
If you successfully complete this period, you will automatically graduate to an unrestricted Class 5 licence without another road test.
What Is the Timeline?
Drivers Under 25
- Class 7L: Hold your learner licence for 12 months
- Class 7N: Hold your N for 24 months, or 18 months if eligible after completing an approved GLP course
- DRA: ICBC reviews your driving record
- Restricted Class 5: Complete 12 months
- Full Class 5: Automatically graduate after meeting the requirements
Drivers 25 and Older
- Class 7L: Hold your learner licence for 9 months
- Class 7N: Hold your N for 12 months
- DRA: ICBC reviews your driving record
- Restricted Class 5: Complete 12 months
- Full Class 5: Automatically graduate after meeting the requirements
What This Means for New Drivers
Although the second road test is being removed, driver training is still important.
Under the new system, your everyday driving record matters even more. Good training can help you develop:
- Defensive driving habits
- Hazard awareness and risk-management skills
- Confidence in city, highway, and rural driving
- Skills for changing weather and road conditions
- Safer habits that can help prevent tickets, collisions, and licence sanctions
With the new GLP, every drive counts.
Drive With Ali Is Here to Help
The licensing process may be changing, but our goal remains the same: helping you become a safe, confident, and responsible driver.
Whether you are preparing for your Class 7 road test, working toward your Restricted Class 5, or building experience for your full licence, professional instruction can give you skills that last far beyond the licensing process.