Big changes are coming to B.C.’s graduated licensing program (GLP). Starting in 2026, ICBC plans to remove the second road test for drivers moving from a Class 7 “N” licence to a full Class 5. Instead, new drivers will enter a one-year probationary period where any serious infraction resets the clock.
For some novice drivers, this raises an important question: is it worth booking the Class 5 test now, or is it better to wait until the new rules take effect? The answer depends on your situation. Let’s look at the pros and cons of each approach.
Why You Might Consider Taking the Test Now
1. Immediate benefits of a full licence
Passing the Class 5 test today means no waiting for the new system to arrive. You gain full driving privileges right away, including:
- Driving without passenger restrictions.
- A more flexible curfew.
- Greater freedom when renting vehicles or applying for certain jobs.
- Fewer obstacles when registering a car or changing your insurance policy.
It may also improve your eligibility to insure a second car or take advantage of additional protection options. If you’ve been carrying an “N” for years, those benefits could outweigh the inconvenience of scheduling another road test.
2. Avoiding the probationary period
Under the new rules, even drivers who graduate automatically will still need to complete a 12-month probation period with zero tolerance for distracted, impaired, or high-risk driving. Taking the Class 5 test now means you skip that stage entirely, and reduce your exposure to potential claims triggered by infractions or accidents.
3. Reduced uncertainty
Legislation has been introduced and is expected to pass, but the final details won’t take effect until 2026. Waiting means living with some uncertainty about exactly how the transition rules will apply to current “N” drivers. By testing now, you avoid any ambiguity.
4. Insurance advantages and lower future insurance costs
For some drivers, upgrading to a full licence sooner may positively affect their insurance profile. A longer history as a fully licensed driver can sometimes contribute to lower insurance costs in the future. While the changes may adjust how insurers measure experience, a clean record with a full licence generally carries weight. It also shows responsibility, which is an important factor if you ever need to file a claim or cover a deductible after an accident.
Why You Might Consider Waiting (and How Other Factors Might Influence Your Decision)
1. Skipping the road test entirely
The biggest appeal of waiting is clear: no more second test. For drivers who find road exams stressful or who’ve failed once already waiting could be the path of least resistance.
2. Avoiding long wait times
Road test backlogs are a well-documented issue in B.C. In some areas, drivers face months-long waits just to secure an appointment. Choosing to wait until the changes arrive could save you the hassle of competing for scarce testing slots—especially if your vehicle use is limited to local errands or short car trips.
3. Cost savings
Each road test comes with a fee. Add in potential travel expenses if you book in a smaller community to find an earlier slot, and the insurance costs add up. By waiting, you may save both time and money, particularly if you’re budgeting for gas, car maintenance, or a new insurance policy.
4. Practical restrictions may not matter to you
Some “N” restrictions don’t affect every driver. For example, if you rarely drive with more than one passenger or typically use transit in busy urban areas, the practical difference between an “N” and a full licence may feel minimal. In those cases, delaying the upgrade could be a reasonable choice, depending on several factors like your schedule, lifestyle, and current vehicle usage.
Does Your Licence Level Affect Auto Insurance Premiums?
Your licence class can affect what you pay for insurance. In B.C., drivers with a Class 7 “N” (Novice) licence are generally considered higher risk than those with a full Class 5 licence. ICBC applies graduated insurance premiums, so novice drivers often face higher rates in their early years until they build up more experience and a safe driving record. Passing your Class 5 test can make you eligible to be calculated for lower insurance premiums and reduce your insurance costs, provided your driving history is clean.
That said, the gap between Class 7 and Class 5 narrows the longer you’ve been driving. ICBC gives credit for years of safe driving regardless of licence class, so a long-time “N” driver with 10 or 15 years of clean experience won’t pay the same high insurance premiums as a brand-new novice. In those cases, upgrading to Class 5 may still offer some savings and removes restrictions like passenger and night driving limits. More importantly, it could reduce your chances of being penalized in the event of a claim—or having to cover a high deductible if something goes wrong.
And remember: your insurance deductible may differ depending on whether you’re found at fault or not in the event of a crash or theft. Always read your policy carefully and take location and driving habits into account when choosing coverage.
Key Factors to Weigh
Your driving record
Both systems put a premium on safe driving. If you’ve been incident-free, you’re well-positioned either way. But keep in mind that under the new rules, one infraction during the probationary period could set you back—and potentially affect your eligibility when submitting an insurance claim.
Your timeline
If you need a full licence quickly—for work, moving out of province, or personal convenience—taking the test now may be the better option.
Your tolerance for risk and uncertainty
Waiting means betting on the new system rolling out smoothly in 2026. If you’d rather have clarity, booking a test today avoids unknowns. The sooner you’re fully licensed, the lower your likelihood of being denied coverage based on licence status alone.
Your comfort with testing
Some drivers prefer the opportunity to demonstrate their skills in a formal test, while others would rather skip it entirely. Consider how confident you feel behind the wheel of your car and whether you’re prepared to bring your vehicle to the testing center.
What ICBC Has Said About the New Driver Licensing Model
According to the province, the changes are designed to emphasize real-world behaviour over test performance. Research shows that consistent safe driving is a better predictor of future safety than a one-time exam. Other provinces, like Alberta and Saskatchewan, already follow a probation-based model rather than requiring multiple tests.
For long-time “N” drivers, transition rules will likely provide a path into the new probationary Class 5 stage once the law takes effect. That means if you’ve been driving responsibly for years, you may soon graduate without ever rebooking a road test—and with no effect on what your insurance covers if you drive the same vehicle responsibly.
Final Thoughts: How to Decide, and How to Locate a Service Near You
The upcoming overhaul to B.C.’s licensing system represents the most significant change in decades. Whether you decide to take the Class 5 test now or wait until 2026 depends on your circumstances, priorities, and comfort level.
At King Insurance, we’re here to help you understand how these changes could affect your driving, your car, and your insurance coverage. Whether you’re reviewing your insurance policy, preparing for a road test, or just want to know how to handle a potential claim, we’re ready to help.
And don’t forget: your health and safety always come first. Staying alert behind the wheel isn’t just about obeying the rules. It’s about protecting your passengers, your vehicle, and your long-term health.
For more tips on licensing, coverage, and how to protect your car at any age, visit our office or give us a call. We’re proud to serve drivers across Canada, and we’ll always be here when you need guidance you can rely on.
Located at the northwest corner of Marine Drive and Main Street, King Insurance proudly serves not only the South Vancouver communities of Marpole, Sunset, Oakridge, Victoria–Fraserview, and nearby areas like Marine Gateway and Marine Landing, but also customers across Richmond and the entire Lower Mainland.
Ka Hing Cheung is proud to work in the insurance company industry, helping people manage risk and protect what matters most. Ka Hing is committed to ongoing learning and enjoys helping clients find the right coverage at the best available rate, while making sure they understand their options clearly.