British Columbia eliminates second road test for novice drivers starting Monday
Effective October 19, Class 7 and Class 7,8 novice drivers with clean records can upgrade to Class 5 by passing a Driving Record Assessment instead of a second road test.
The day's top stories, food & events — every morning at 7. Unsubscribe anytime.
British Columbia is eliminating the second road test for eligible novice drivers effective Monday, October 19, replacing it with a Driving Record Assessment that checks the driver's record and required safe-driving period.
The change affects drivers holding a Class 7 novice or Class 7,8 novice licence with a clean driving record who want to upgrade to a Class 5 licence with restrictions. Drivers over 25 must demonstrate 12 months of safe driving; those under 25 must show 24 months, or 18 months if they completed an approved Graduated Licensing Program course. Once criteria are met, drivers can visit a licensing office by appointment or walk in to upgrade.
ICBC will email drivers whose second road tests were scheduled on or after October 19 to notify them of cancellation. The Graduated Licensing Program, which introduced the two-test requirement, was established over 25 years ago.
ICBC said the change aligns B.C. with evolving road safety practices in other jurisdictions and maintains road safety as a priority. The agency also noted the move will reduce barriers to licensing "especially for drivers in rural, remote and Indigenous communities, where access to road tests may be limited." Reader response to earlier coverage was divided—well over 100 commenters expressed support for ending the N test, while others raised concerns about licensing standards. The changes have been described as very divisive among readers.
By the numbers
When does British Columbia's second road test elimination take effect?
The change takes effect on Monday, October 19, 2026.
Which novice driver classes are eligible for the new assessment?
Class 7 novice and Class 7,8 novice drivers with clean driving records can upgrade to Class 5 by passing a Driving Record Assessment instead of a second road test.
How long must drivers demonstrate safe driving to upgrade?
Drivers over 25 must demonstrate 12 months of safe driving, while drivers under 25 must show 24 months—or 18 months if they completed an approved Graduated Licensing Program course.
