Changes to BC’s Graduated Licensing Program are on the way.

The Province says the changes will focus on helping new drivers get more time behind the wheel to develop the habits they need to drive responsibly.

B.C. has introduced new regulatory amendments to enable the removal of the second road test to progress to a Class 5 licence by replacing it with a driving record assessment.

The assessment shows whether drivers have met the minimum driving experience as a novice driver.

A record of unsafe behaviours, including convictions for excessive speeding and electronic device use, will result in re-starting the “novice” driving period.

The changes will come into effect on October 19, and drivers who are eligible may qualify for a one-time, automatic licence upgrade from a Class 7 to a Class 5 licence, meaning they won’t be required to complete an in-office driving record assessment.

Drivers who pass the assessment will be eligible to move to a Class 5 licence with a 12-month restricted period.

During the restricted period, drivers will be subject to a zero blood-alcohol and drug restriction and face greater scrutiny than experienced drivers if they receive any violations on their record.

The new 12-month restricted period is intended to help flag and correct mistakes made by new drivers and ensure they spend more time developing good driving habits on the roads.

The Province is also creating a shorter pathway for people who are age 25 or older, which includes shortening the learner phase from 12 to nine months, and reducing the novice phase from 24 to 12 months.

To learn more, visit ICBC.