BC's Graduated Licensing Program (GLP) Explained: L, N, and Class 5

What is BC's Graduated Licensing Program?

The Graduated Licensing Program (GLP) is how British Columbia trains and licenses new drivers. It has three stages — Learner (L), Novice (N), and full Class 5 — each with its own restrictions, waiting periods, and tests. Understanding the GLP saves you time, money, and confusion.

Stage 1: Learner's Licence (Class 7L)

How to get it: Pass the ICBC knowledge test (50 multiple-choice questions on road signs and traffic rules) and a basic vision screening at any ICBC office. The fee is around $35.

What it lets you do: Drive while accompanied by a fully-licensed (Class 5) supervisor who is at least 25 years old and seated in the front passenger seat. You must display an "L" sign on the back of the vehicle.

Restrictions:

• No driving between midnight and 5 AM
• Maximum of one passenger
• Zero blood alcohol
• No use of any electronic devices, hands-free or otherwise

How long you must hold it: Minimum 12 months before you can take the Class 7 (Novice) road test.

Stage 2: Novice Licence (Class 7N)

How to get it: Hold your Learner's licence for at least 12 months and pass the Class 7 road test. The road test is approximately 45 minutes and grades observation, vehicle control, speed management, and judgment.

What it lets you do: Drive without a supervisor, day or night. You must display an "N" sign on the back.

Restrictions:

• Maximum one passenger (excluding immediate family)
• Zero blood alcohol
• No use of any electronic devices
• Two-strike rule: more than one violation can return you to the Learner stage

How long you must hold it: Minimum 24 months before you can take the Class 5 road test (full unrestricted licence). Tickets and violations during the Novice stage can extend this period.

Stage 3: Full Class 5 Licence

How to get it: Hold the Novice licence for at least 24 months without prohibitions, then pass the Class 5 road test. The Class 5 test is similar in format to the Class 7 but slightly more advanced (more highway-style driving).

What it lets you do: Drive any non-commercial passenger vehicle, motorcycle (with separate Class 6 endorsement), or moped. No N sign required. No passenger restrictions. Standard 0.05% BAC limit applies.

How Long Does the Whole Process Take?

The minimum timeline:

• Pass knowledge test → 12 months as Learner → pass Class 7 road test → 24 months as Novice → pass Class 5 road test
• Total: ~3 years from your first knowledge test to your full Class 5 licence

That assumes no violations and no failed tests. A failed road test typically delays you by 2–4 weeks (waiting for a rebooking).

Common Questions About the GLP

Can I skip stages if I have a licence from another country?

It depends. Holders of unrestricted licences from many jurisdictions (most of the EU, US, Australia, Japan, Korea) can convert directly to a BC Class 5. Holders from other countries typically need to start at the Learner stage and pass both the knowledge and road tests, but the waiting periods may be reduced based on driving history.

Do I need to take driving lessons?

Driving lessons aren't required by ICBC, but professional instruction dramatically improves your pass rate on the road tests. Most students at Ardas take 8–12 lessons before their Class 7 test.

What happens if I get a ticket as a Novice?

Tickets in the Novice stage can result in a prohibition or extension of the Novice period. A second violation typically resets you to the Learner stage. The two-strike rule is strict.

Get Started With Ardas

Whether you're at the Learner stage and looking for your first driving class, or preparing for the Novice or Class 5 road test, Ardas Driving School can help. Our instructors are ICBC-certified and teach in English, Punjabi, and Hindi. Book a class online or call (778) 300-3339.