Because BC’s graduated licensing programs for drivers and motorcycle riders haven’t seen significant updates over the past 25 years, the Province is seeking to make changes.
The BC government just introduced legislation to alter the current graduated licensing programs to create a simplified, more accessible process for new drivers, and improve safety standards for motorcycle drivers.
If this legislation is approved, the Graduated Licensing Program (GLP) will remove the requirement for a second road test to obtain a Class 5 licence.
Going forward, drivers that are eligible to move to a Class 5 licence will go through a new 12-month restriction period, demonstrating safe driving behaviour to progress in lieu of the second road test.
If these changes are passed through the Legislative Assembly, then Ontario will be the only remaining province that requires a second road test to move on from their graduated license.
The Province also seeks to make changes to establish a new Motorcyclist Licensing Program (MLP) that all new motorcyclists will need to complete.
The new MLP will also have a restriction period and additional requirements for protective gear. Through these changes, BC hopes to reduce fatalities and serious injuries resulting from motorcycle-related crashes.
“These changes are intended to improve road safety for new drivers and motorcyclists by ensuring they gain more on-road experience, and improve licensing accessibility by addressing barriers experienced by Indigenous and rural and remote communities,” said Garry Begg, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General.
“By removing unnecessary barriers for new drivers and strengthening safety measures for new riders, we’re making the licensing system more accessible, while helping to reduce serious injuries and fatalities on our roads.”
Additionally, these changes would reduce wait times for those seeking a road test to earn their Class 7, novice licence.
The Province is planning on implementing these changes in early 2026.
