Driving in B.C.

Last updated on July 23, 2024

B.C.’s driving rules and processes may be different from other provinces, territories or countries. Learn about how to get your driver's licence and insurance, road safety and driving laws, emergency contacts, and more.

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Service and information topics

Getting your driver's licence

ICBC explains how to get a B.C. driver's licence, including the required documents and fees.

> Moving to B.C. from another province or country

Understanding road signs and traffic rules

If you’re a newcomer to Canada or B.C., you might be used to different traffic laws and rules. There are many ways to learn more about traffic rules in B.C.:

> Signs, signals and road markings (PDF, 2MB)

Registering your vehicle

Vehicles in B.C. must be registered with ICBC.

> Register a vehicle in B.C.

Getting insurance for your vehicle

All vehicles in B.C. must have Basic Autoplan insurance from ICBC. It helps ensure all drivers are protected with a basic level of coverage.

> Find out how to get ICBC Basic Autoplan insurance

Enhanced Care is provided to everyone, including pedestrians and cyclists, guaranteeing access to necessary care for injuries resulting from crashes or incidents.

Driving safely

If you’re new to driving in B.C., you may want to review the rules for driving and refresh your knowledge. ICBC provides detailed information in its guide, Learn to Drive Smart. You can also review the Tuning Up for Drivers study guide as well as some resources on road safety. If you want to take driving lessons, find out more about driver training.

Reporting a car accident

If you’re in a car accident, you’ll need to report it to ICBC and start a claim. Find out how to report a claim online or by phone. To report a claim in your preferred language, call ICBC by phone and request over-the-phone service in your preferred language. You can report a claim 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Tips for driving during winters

Driving in winter conditions can be challenging because of ice, snow and slippery highways. Here are some tips to keep you and your loved ones safe on the road during wintertime.

> Winter driving

More driving information

Below are additional resources on various aspects of driving:

ICBC can answer your questions in 170 languages over the phone. There is no cost for this service.

Newcomers' Guide (PDF, 7MB) has more information on Driving in B.C., including insurance and safety information.
DriveBC and Shift Into Winter have up-to-date road conditions and driving tips.
DriveBC's directions will tell you how far away other cities and towns are, and how long it will take to drive there.
HelloBC has maps for cities and regions across British Columbia.

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The B.C. Public Service acknowledges the territories of First Nations around B.C. and is grateful to carry out our work on these lands. We acknowledge the rights, interests, priorities, and concerns of all Indigenous Peoples - First Nations, Métis, and Inuit - respecting and acknowledging their distinct cultures, histories, rights, laws, and governments.