If you’re relocating from Toronto, Ontario to Vancouver, British Columbia, and you already hold a valid G-class driver’s license, you will need to exchange it for a British Columbia (BC) driver’s license. The process involves a few important steps to ensure your driving history and license are recognized in BC:
✅ 1. Obtain a Driver’s License History (DLH) from Ontario
Before applying for a BC driver’s license, you must provide proof of your driving history from Ontario. To do this:
- Request a Driver’s License History (DLH) from ServiceOntario.
- You can visit a ServiceOntario centre in person or submit a written request by mail. Include your full name, Ontario driver’s license number, and current address.
- The DLH must be official and recent (issued within the last 6 months) and should be presented in English or French.
✅ 2. Translate Your Foreign Driver’s License (if applicable)
If you also have a driver’s license from another country and wish to have that experience counted in BC:
- You must translate your foreign license into English (if it is not already in English).
- The translation must be completed by a BC-certified translator.
❗ Note: Translations done by translators from Ontario or other provinces will not be accepted by ICBC (the licensing authority in BC). - You can find certified translators via the STIBC (Society of Translators and Interpreters of British Columbia).
✅ 3. Book an Appointment with ICBC
Once you have the necessary documents ready:
- Go to the ICBC (Insurance Corporation of British Columbia) website and book an appointment at a driver licensing office.
- At your appointment, bring:
- Your Ontario driver’s license
- The Driver’s License History
- Your translated foreign license, if applicable
- Acceptable ID documents and proof of residency in BC
⚠️ Additional Tips:
- You may be asked to take a vision test.
- In most cases, if you have more than 2 years of driving experience (including foreign verified experience), you can directly obtain a Class 5 (full license) in BC.
- Otherwise, you may be issued a Class 7 or asked to take a road test.
The fastest way to prepare for the ICBC test is by using apps for Android and iOS.
If you need to take the G1 test for Ontario in Canada, this is the place for you www.g1canada.com
✅ Advantages of Getting an ICBC Driver’s License in British Columbia
- 1. Simple Exchange Process
If you have a valid driver’s license from another province or country, you can exchange it for a BC license without taking additional tests, provided certain requirements are met.
- 2. Variety and Flexibility of License Classes
BC offers several levels of driver’s licenses: Class 5 (full license), Class 7 (learner’s license), and Class 7N (novice license with restrictions). This allows new drivers to start with a probationary period and gradually move to full privileges as they gain experience.
- 3. Multilingual Materials and Accessibility
ICBC provides exams and study materials in multiple languages, including English, French, Chinese, Hindi, Punjabi, and more. This makes the process easier for individuals who are not fluent in English.
- 4. Thorough Testing and Preparation
ICBC exams include both a knowledge test and a road test, ensuring high standards of road safety. Comprehensive testing guarantees that drivers understand traffic rules and can operate vehicles safely.
- 5. Flexible Preparation Methods
ICBC offers online resources and mobile apps to help you prepare for exams. This enables you to study anytime and anywhere, significantly speeding up the licensing process.
- 6. Extensive Network of Offices and Testing Locations
ICBC has many service centers throughout British Columbia, making access convenient for residents regardless of their location.
- 7. Support for Immigrants
ICBC provides programs that help new immigrants adapt, including document translation, information on the license exchange process, and other guidance.
- 8. Convenient Process for Foreign License Holders
ICBC offers a streamlined exchange process for experienced drivers with foreign licenses, saving time and avoiding the need to take a full driving test.
- 9. Safety and Reliability
An ICBC driver’s license ensures that you are recognized throughout Canada. It also gives you access to all the driving privileges and insurance benefits available in British Columbia.
- 10. Social Responsibility and Support
ICBC actively works to improve road safety by offering educational programs, resources for parents, and new initiatives aimed at reducing traffic accidents.
