ICBC Knowledge Test Tips for Newcomers to BC (2026)

Welcome to BC — Here Is What You Need to Know About Getting Your Licence

If you are new to British Columbia — whether you recently arrived from another country, another Canadian province, or another province as an international student — you will need a BC driver's licence to legally drive in BC after a certain period. This guide explains everything newcomers need to know about the ICBC knowledge test.

Who Needs to Take the ICBC Knowledge Test?

You must take the ICBC knowledge test if:

• You are a new resident of BC who has never held a licence
• You are a new resident whose foreign licence is not eligible for direct exchange
• You have been a BC resident for more than 90 days and your out-of-province licence has expired

Some foreign licences are eligible for direct exchange to a BC licence without taking the knowledge or road test. Countries with reciprocal agreements include the United States, United Kingdom, Germany, South Korea, Austria, and others. Check icbc.com for the current list of eligible countries.

What Is the Knowledge Test?

The ICBC knowledge test is a 50-question multiple-choice test taken on a computer at an ICBC driver licensing office. You must score at least 80% (40 correct) to pass and receive your Class 7 Learner's Licence. The test costs $15 per attempt. If you fail, you must wait 7 days before retaking it.

Can I Take the Test in My Language?

Yes. ICBC offers the knowledge test in more than 10 languages, including:

• English
• French
• Punjabi (ਪੰਜਾਬੀ)
• Simplified Chinese (普通话)
• Traditional Chinese (廣東話)
• Korean (한국어)
• Japanese (日本語)
• Vietnamese (Tiếng Việt)
• Spanish (Español)
• Filipino (Tagalog)
• Arabic (عربي)

Select your preferred language when booking your appointment at icbc.com. BCDriveReady's practice questions are available in English and cover all topics that appear on the test regardless of language.

How Is BC Driving Different From Other Countries?

If you learned to drive outside Canada, there are important differences to understand before your knowledge test and before driving in BC:

• Drive on the right side of the road — unlike in the UK, Japan, Australia, and some other countries
• Speed limits in km/h — not miles per hour
• Right turn on red is allowed — after a complete stop, unless a sign prohibits it
• Four-way stops — common in BC; the first vehicle to arrive goes first
• Pedestrian right of way — pedestrians in crosswalks have absolute right of way in BC
• School and playground zones (30 km/h) — strictly enforced
• Graduated Licensing Program (GLP) — BC has a two-stage learner system before full licence

Understanding the BC Graduated Licensing Program

BC's Graduated Licensing Program (GLP) applies to all new drivers, including newcomers who have never held a licence elsewhere. The stages are:

1. Class 7 Learner's Licence — pass the knowledge test; must have a licensed driver with you at all times; zero alcohol limit; no passengers unless the supervisor allows it; hold for minimum 12 months
2. Class 7N Novice Licence — pass the road test; can drive alone; one passenger restriction midnight to 5 am; 0.00 BAC; hold for 24 months
3. Class 5 Full Licence — pass the second road test; full driving privileges

What ID Do I Need to Bring?

Bring two pieces of acceptable identification. Your primary ID must include a photo — a passport is the most commonly accepted document for newcomers. Secondary ID can be a credit card, bank card, or other government document. At least one must include your signature.

How to Prepare as a Newcomer

1. Download and read the ICBC Driver's Guide (Learn to Drive Smart) from icbc.com — it is available in multiple languages
2. Pay extra attention to BC-specific road signs, which may differ from your home country
3. Practice with BCDriveReady's 500+ questions — focus on road signs, speed limits, and intersection rules
4. Take at least 3 full mock exams and score 90%+ before booking your appointment
5. Book your appointment at the ICBC office most convenient for you

Book Your Test

Book your ICBC knowledge test at icbc.com or by calling 1-800-950-1498. Appointments are required — walk-in testing is not available at any BC driver licensing office.