British Columbia’s graduated licensing program (GLP) is changing on October 19, 2026, bringing the biggest overhaul to the system in years. The second and final road test for a full Class 5 licence is being removed, replaced by a Driving Record Assessment (DRA), and new rules will apply to novice drivers moving to a Class 5 licence.

While ICBC has published information about the changes on its website, many new drivers still have practical questions about how the new system works. Recently, ICBC’s official online account answered dozens of questions from drivers in an online discussion, providing additional clarification on topics that aren’t always obvious from the official announcements.

Here are some of the most useful answers.

Does an at-fault accident affect the Driving Record Assessment?

Many drivers assumed that being involved in an accident, especially one where they were found at fault, would prevent them from automatically moving to a Class 5 licence.

According to ICBC, accident history does not affect the Driving Record Assessment.

Instead, the DRA focuses on specific unsafe behaviours. To pass the assessment, drivers must meet all the following criteria during the applicable review period:

No driving prohibitions
No driver’s licence suspensions
No convictions for excessive speeding
No convictions for using an electronic device while driving

This means that a minor at-fault collision by itself will not prevent you from qualifying for a Class 5 licence with restrictions if you otherwise meet the requirements.

I’ve had my N for years. Will I automatically get a full Class 5?

No.

Drivers who qualify for the new system will first receive a Class 5 licence with restrictions, not a fully unrestricted Class 5 driver’s licence.

Even if you’ve held your N for several years with a clean driving record, you’ll still need to complete the new 12-month restricted period before receiving an unrestricted Class 5 licence. ICBC confirmed there is no shortcut that allows eligible drivers to skip this stage.

What restrictions apply to the new Class 5 licence?

This has been one of the biggest points of confusion.

Some drivers assumed the passenger and electronic-device restrictions from the Class 7 novice licence would continue.

ICBC clarified that the new Class 5 restrictions are much more limited.

During the 12-month restricted period, drivers must:

Maintain zero blood alcohol content
Maintain zero drug blood content

Unlike the Novice licence, drivers are no longer subject to passenger restrictions.

Can I use Google Maps during the restricted period?

Yes.

ICBC confirmed that drivers holding a Class 5 licence with restrictions may use GPS navigation.

This is a significant change from the Novice licence, where electronic device rules are much stricter. Drivers should still ensure any device is mounted and used in accordance with B.C.’s distracted driving laws.

Does a Class 5 licence with restrictions count as a Class 5 for employment?

For licensing purposes, yes.

ICBC explained that a Class 5 licence with restrictions is still considered a Class 5 licence. However, employers set their own hiring requirements, so some positions may require a fully unrestricted licence.

If a job posting simply requires a Class 5 licence, it’s worth confirming with the employer whether the restricted licence meets their requirements before applying.

What happens if I don’t pass the Driving Record Assessment?

Unlike the old system, there is no road test to fail.

Instead, ICBC reviews your recent driving history.

If you have disqualifying offences during the assessment period, you won’t be upgraded to a Class 5 licence with restrictions.

ICBC says you’ll need to restart the required novice period before becoming eligible again. Once you’ve completed the required period with a clean driving record, you can qualify for the upgrade.

Does every speeding ticket prevent me from upgrading?

Not necessarily.

Throughout the discussion, ICBC consistently stated that the Driving Record Assessment looks for:

Prohibitions
Suspensions
Convictions for excessive speeding
Convictions for using an electronic device while driving

This suggests that not every traffic ticket automatically disqualifies a driver, although drivers should always review their individual circumstances with ICBC if they are unsure.

How far back does the Driving Record Assessment look?

Many drivers wondered whether incidents from several years ago would still count.

ICBC clarified that the assessment only reviews your recent driving history:

The previous 24 months for most drivers.
The previous 12 months for drivers aged 25 and older who qualify under the streamlined licensing pathway, which shortens the learner phase and novice stage before eligibility for a full Class 5 licence.

Older offences outside those review periods generally aren’t considered as part of the DRA.

What if I’ve already booked my Class 5 road test?

If you’ve already scheduled your second road test before October 19, you can still take it.

ICBC confirmed that anyone who passes the Class 5 road test before the new rules take effect will receive a regular unrestricted Class 5 licence under the current system.

After October 19, however, the second Class 5 road test will no longer be offered. Eligible drivers will instead move through the Driving Record Assessment process.

Will I automatically receive my new licence?

Not quite.

Drivers who qualify for an automatic upgrade won’t simply see their licence change overnight.

ICBC says eligible drivers will receive letters explaining whether they qualify and what steps they need to take next. In many cases, drivers will still need to visit an ICBC driver licensing office to receive their updated licence.

Are motorcycle licensing rules changing too?

Not yet.

ICBC’s official account said that proposed changes to the Motorcyclist Licensing Program are still under review. ICBC will need to continue consulting with key partners before any changes are finalized.

That means the October 19, 2026 changes described above apply to B.C.’s Graduated Licensing Program for passenger vehicles. Motorcycle riders should continue following the current motorcycle licensing requirements unless ICBC announces separate changes.

Final thoughts on the changes to the Graduated Licensing Program

B.C.’s graduated licensing program (GLP) is changing on October 19, 2026, bringing the biggest overhaul to the system in years. The second road test for a full Class 5 licence is being removed and replaced by a Driving Record Assessment (DRA), changing how each new driver progresses from a novice licence to a full Class 5 licence. The upcoming GLP changes are designed to support road safety by placing greater emphasis on safe driving habits demonstrated over time rather than performance during a single road test.

If you’re currently working toward your Class 5 licence, it’s a good idea to review the new requirements before October 19 so you know what to expect. And if you’re unsure whether a ticket, suspension, or other driving history could affect your eligibility, contact ICBC directly for guidance based on your individual record.

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ICBC Answered Drivers’ Biggest Questions About the New GLP Changes. Here’s What You Need to Know