BC has introduced legislation to improve graduated licensing programs to create a simpler, more accessible process for new drivers, while improving safety standards for motorcycle drivers. If approved, the changes will update the Graduated Licensing Program (GLP) to remove the requirement for a second road test to obtain a Class 5 licence. Instead, for those drivers eligible to move to a Class 5 licence, government will be creating a new 12-month restriction period, during which they must demonstrate safe driving behaviour to progress.
According to current requirements all new drivers (regardless of age) must pass two road tests (Class 7 and Class 5). The Novice stage is 24 months (can be reduced to 18 with approved driver training). There is no requirement to move to a full licence. Many remain in the Novice stage for years.
After full implementation of the new legislation which is expected in early 2026, the requirement for a second road test will be removed. All drivers must still spend time driving safely before moving to full Class 5.
For drivers under 25 year of age:
A minimum of 12 months as a Learner with existing restrictions;
* then, 24 months as a Novice with existing restrictions; and
* then, driver record assessment and a new 12-month restriction period under Class 5 before earning full privileges.
* 25 and older:
* minimum nine months as a Learner;
* then 12 months as a Novice with no suspensions or prohibitions; and
* driver record assessment and a new 12-month restriction period under Class 5 before earning full privileges.
* Drivers with approved training can still shorten the Novice stage (under 25 only).
* Safety isn’t compromised and drivers still gain experience before full privileges.
Garry Begg, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General, said, “By removing unnecessary barriers for new drivers and strengthening safety measures for new riders, we’re making the licensing system more accessible, while helping to reduce serious injuries and fatalities on our roads.”
B.C.’s graduated licensing programs for passenger vehicles and motorcycles has not been significantly updated in the past 25 years. The decision to update provincial licensing programs is guided by a commitment to road safety and aligns with most other jurisdictions. Ontario will be the only province that requires a second road test to exit the Graduated Licensing Program.
Research indicates that age and inexperience contribute to crash risk. As new drivers get more experience, their crash risk decreases. Evidence shows that having an extended period with restrictions and enhanced driver-record reviews builds the necessary skills and behaviours to promote safe driving. The changes remove requirements not proven to increase road safety, which will reduce wait times for those seeking a road test to earn their Novice (Class 7) licence.
The proposed legislative changes will also establish a new Motorcyclist Licensing Program (MLP) that all new motorcycle riders will need to complete. This approach ensures new riders gain the unique skills required to ride safely. The new MLP will also have a restriction period and enhanced safety measure requirements for protective gear, which will be established through regulations. These changes will help reduce fatalities and serious injuries resulting from motorcycle-related crashes.
Motorcycle riders are over-represented in fatal crashes in B.C. They make up 3.7% of insured vehicles yet are involved in 14.2% of all road fatalities. Of motorcycle crashes where licensed riders were at fault, 46% involved a licensed rider with less than five years of riding experience.
Proposed changes to the GLP and MLP will continue to be informed by engagements with key partners, including Indigenous communities, driver training schools and health authorities, with implementation planned for early 2026.
