BC Class 5 Licence and Road Test Changes
Understand BC's October 2026 Class 5 changes, the driving-record assessment, restricted period and who should check road-test requirements.
Updated · Editorial Policy
Since October 19, 2026, eligible N drivers upgrade through a Driving Record Assessment instead of a second road test. A 12-month restricted Class 5 period follows. Class 5 is the closest licence-stage comparison to Ontario's Full G, but the route to it is different.
Moving from N to Class 5
ICBC checks your novice driving experience and record. The usual qualifying period is 24 months if you are under 25, or 12 months if you are 25 or older. Qualifying approved training can shorten the under-25 period to 18 months.
Convictions for excessive speeding or electronic-device use, and prohibitions or suspensions, affect eligibility. Follow ICBC's assessment instructions rather than booking an old-style N exit test.
Some existing novice drivers qualified for a one-time automatic upgrade when the rules changed. Check your current licence status and any ICBC notice before arranging an assessment.
After the Assessment
The new Class 5 stage includes a year with zero blood-alcohol and drug restrictions. A prohibition or suspension can restart this period. ICBC explains when the restriction ends and how to confirm your status.
Who May Still Need a Class 5 Road Test?
The removal of the novice exit test does not mean every driver can skip a road test. People moving from other jurisdictions can have different requirements based on their licence and documented experience. Follow the instructions ICBC gives for your individual application.
If ICBC requires a Class 5 road test, use the booking and preparation guides here. Roadity's BC practice-route downloads are coming soon; no Class 5 route is available to download yet.
Put Your Preparation into Practice
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BC Route Downloads
Roadity's British Columbia practice routes are coming soon. Read the test and city preparation guides now; guided routes are not available to download yet.
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Questions About BC Driving Tests
Do I still need a second road test to remove my N?
Eligible novice drivers now use a Driving Record Assessment. Check ICBC's current rules and your personal record; do not assume an older Class 5 test guide applies.
Is a BC Class 5 licence exactly the same as a G licence?
They are comparable passenger-vehicle licence stages, but BC has its own eligibility and restrictions, including the new restricted Class 5 period.
Sources
- ICBC: October 2026 licensing changes
- ICBC graduated licensing
- BC government: updated licensing stages
- ICBC: moving from outside Canada
- ICBC road test booking and route policy
Checked November 12, 2026. Roadity provides independent preparation content and is not affiliated with ICBC.