Obtaining a driver’s license in Canada can be a lengthy process, typically taking at least 3 years to get a full license. You first need to pass a knowledge test to get a Learner’s (L) license, then wait 1 year to take the road test for a Novice (N) license. After holding the N license for 2 years, you can take another road test for a full driver’s License.
However, applicants from certain regions can benefit from Canada’s reciprocal driver’s license policy. If you have held a reciprocal license for more than 2 years, you can apply directly with ICBC for a Full BC Driver’s License. The process may vary slightly between provinces, and this article will focus on How to Exchange Driver License Address BC in Canada as a Reciprocal License Holder.
You can also check the latest updates on ICBC – Moving from outside Canada.
Reciprocal License Regions
- Austria
- Australia
- Belgium
- France
- Germany
- Guernsey, Isle of Man, Jersey
- Ireland
- Japan
- Netherlands – Except former territories in Antilles: Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao, Saba, St. Eustatius, and St. Maarten.
- New Zealand
- South Korea (not motorcycles)
- Switzerland
- Taiwan (not motorcycles)
- United Kingdom (includes England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland)
- United States (includes Washington DC and Puerto Rico)
Documents Required
Before visiting ICBC, ensure you have prepared the following documents:
- Original passport
- Original driver’s license
- Visa (e.g., Work Permit, Study Permit, etc.)
- Proof of driving experience
If you are holding a Taiwanese driver’s license, the documents required may be different, kindly click here for further details.
How to Apply for a BC Driver’s License
ICBC Online Appointment
The ICBC offices in Vancouver are usually busy, so it’s better to book an appointment beforehand to avoid long wait times. During peak seasons, some popular locations may be fully booked even a week in advance.
To book an appointment, visit the ICBC website. Here’s a quick overview of the process:
Click the link to access the ICBC page, scroll down, and click Find an office and book now.
Choose an ICBC location near you and click Book an appointment.
If you have a reciprocal driver’s license, select option A. If not, select option B (knowledge test required).
Choose a location. Since I couldn’t book downtown, I chose Metrotown.
Select a date and time.
Enter your personal information and submit your appointment request.
After completing the booking, you’ll receive a confirmation email. The email will include options to cancel or reschedule, allowing flexibility in arranging your appointment.
Submitting Your Application at ICBC
Once you have prepared the required documents, head to ICBC, make sure to bring all the documents, as missing any document will result in your application being rejected.
On the day I visited Metrotown ICBC, there was a long line as usual, but fortunately, I had an appointment. After lining up at the reception desk, I was given a number and waited for my turn. The staff member who assisted me was very helpful. She first asked me to review a Declaration and answer 6 questions. If you’re uncomfortable with English, you can request a different language for review.
Next, she asked traffic safety questions, and while you can view these questions in different languages, you must respond in English. I recommend reviewing the ICBC knowledge test content beforehand. After that, I took a vision test and had my photo taken on-site. Finally, they collected my original driver’s license, including my motorcycle license.
I paid $31.00 CAD by card and received a yellow paper. The formal process for exchanging the license was now complete. The yellow paper is a temporary driver’s license, and the official driver’s license will arrive in the mail within two weeks.
While waiting, you can check the status of your card on the Card status tracking. I received my driver’s license in my mailbox within two weeks. If you don’t receive it after two weeks, it’s a good idea to contact ICBC for assistance.
Timeline
- 3/04: Applied at TECO Vancouver
- 3/13: Received translated document
- 3/13: Applied at ICBC and received a temporary license
- 3/25: Received BC driver’s license
This was my experience exchanging my BC driver’s license in Canada. Since I held a Taiwanese driver’s license, I was required to submit additional documents, but for other reciprocal regions, the document requirements are simpler. If you are from a non-reciprocal region, you will need to pass a knowledge and road test, making the process more challenging.
Regardless of your situation, if you hold a license from a reciprocal region, I recommend exchanging it for a Canadian license when you arrive. It’s much more convenient to drive in Canada, especially given how vast the country is—having no car can make things quite difficult! 🥹
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