British Columbia (ICBC) Driving Rules – Complete Guide

Driving in British Columbia (BC) is regulated by the Insurance Corporation of British Columbia (ICBC), the agency responsible for driver licensing, vehicle insurance, and road safety standards. Every driver—whether a beginner or an experienced motorist—must follow provincial driving laws. Knowing these rules is essential not only for passing the ICBC Knowledge Test, but also for maintaining a valid licence and driving safely throughout the province.

1. Driver Licensing System in British Columbia

British Columbia uses the Graduated Licensing Program (GLP) to help new drivers develop skills gradually and safely. The program includes three main stages:

• Class 7L (Learner’s Licence): Drivers must always be accompanied by a qualified supervisor and follow strict limits on alcohol, passengers, and driving hours.

• Class 7N (Novice Licence): Drivers may drive independently but must follow restrictions such as a zero-alcohol rule and passenger limits.

• Class 5 (Full Licence): Issued after completing all testing stages and maintaining a safe driving record.

Advancing through each level requires successfully passing both written and practical road tests.

2. Speed Limits and Speed Management

Speed limits in British Columbia depend on the type of road and surrounding environment:

• Residential and urban areas: 50 km/h unless signs indicate otherwise

• Rural roads: 80 km/h unless posted differently

• Highways: Usually range from 90 to 120 km/h

Drivers must slow down when road, traffic, or weather conditions make the posted speed unsafe.

3. Alcohol, Drugs, and Impaired Driving Laws

British Columbia has strict laws to prevent impaired driving:

• Learner (7L) and Novice (7N) drivers must maintain zero BAC at all times.

• Driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or cannabis—whether legal or illegal—can result in immediate licence suspension, vehicle impoundment, fines, or criminal charges.

• These rules apply during both day and night driving.

4. Seatbelt and Occupant Safety Rules

Seatbelt use is mandatory across British Columbia:

• Every person in a vehicle must wear a seatbelt.

• Drivers are legally responsible for ensuring all passengers are properly secured.

• Children must be transported using approved child car seats or booster seats according to age, height, and weight requirements.

Violating seatbelt or child restraint laws can lead to fines and penalty points.

5. Traffic Signs and Signals

Understanding traffic signs is a critical part of ICBC driving rules:

• Regulatory Signs: Show laws that must be obeyed, such as Stop, Yield, Speed Limit, No Turn, and Do Not Enter.

• Warning Signs: Inform drivers of possible hazards ahead, including curves, intersections, slippery roads, or animal crossings.

• Guide and Information Signs: Offer directions, route numbers, destinations, and nearby services.

• School and Playground Signs: Indicate reduced speed limits and require extra caution to protect children.