The Province has introduced legislation to make changes to the graduated licensing programs for new drivers.

If approved, the changes will update the Graduated Licensing Program to remove the requirement for a second road test to obtain a Class 5 license

Instead, the government will be creating a new 12-month restriction period, during which drivers must demonstrate safe driving behaviour to progress.

The Province notes research indicates that age and inexperience contribute to crash risk, and as new drivers get more experience, their crash risk decreases.

The proposed changes will also establish a new Motorcyclist Licensing Program that all new motorcycle riders will need to complete.

It will also have a restriction period and enhanced safety measure requirements for protective gear.

Motorcycle riders are over-represented in fatal crashes in B.C.

They make up 3.7% of insured vehicles yet are involved in 14.2% of all road fatalities.

Of motorcycle crashes where licensed riders were at fault, 46% involved a licensed rider with less than five years of riding experience.

The Province is expecting the changes to take effect early next year.

To learn more, visit ICBC.