Got a Licence from Another Country? Here’s How to Switch It in BC

The good news is, British Columbia has a system to help you convert your foreign driver’s licence. But how it works depends on where you’re from and how long you’ve been driving.

Here’s a plain and simple guide to help you figure it out.

Step 1: Check if Your Country Has an Agreement with BC

Some countries have a deal with British Columbia. This means you can trade your old licence for a BC licence without having to do a road test.

Here are some examples of countries that qualify:

• Germany
• South Korea
• Japan
• United Kingdom
• Australia
• France
• Netherlands
• Switzerland

There are more, so it’s worth checking the ICBC website or asking your driving school.

If your country is on the list, the process is much easier.

Step 2: Get the Right Documents Ready

To switch your licence, you’ll need to go to an ICBC office and bring:

• Your original foreign driver’s licence
• Official translation (if the licence is not in English)
• Proof of driving experience (like a letter from your licensing office)
• Two pieces of ID
• Payment for the licence fee

Make sure your documents are up to date. If anything is missing or hard to read, they might delay your application.

Step 3: Take the Knowledge Test (If Required)

If your country is not on BC’s agreement list, you’ll likely need to take a knowledge test. This covers Canadian road rules, signs, and safe driving practices.

Even if you’ve been driving for years, this test can surprise you. The questions are specific, and the wording can be tricky. That’s why a lot of newcomers take a few lessons to get ready.

At Kits Elite Driving School, we help people study in English, Persian, or Turkish. We break down the hard parts and make sure you’re not just guessing.

Step 4: Pass the Road Test (If Required)

If you need a road test, don’t panic. You’re not starting from zero. But the test in BC is strict, especially when it comes to things like:

• Shoulder checks
• School zones
• Turning rules
• Parallel parking
• Speed control in the rain or on hills

You may be a good driver, but driving the Canadian way takes a bit of adjusting. That’s why many newcomers book a few practice sessions with a local instructor. It helps you drive the way examiners expect.

You can see our lesson prices here and choose what works for you.

Do You Start at Class 7 or Class 5?

If you have more than two years of driving experience, you may be allowed to go straight to a Class 5 licence.

If you have less than two years, you might have to start with a Class 7 and go through the graduated system.

This is something we can help you figure out during your first lesson. We’ve worked with hundreds of international drivers who weren’t sure where they fit in — we sort it out together.

Final Tip: Don’t Wait Too Long

After you move to BC, you’re only allowed to drive on your foreign licence for 90 days. After that, you need a BC licence to drive legally.

So don’t wait. Start early, get your documents together, and take a lesson if you feel unsure.

At Kits Elite Driving School, we’re based in Kitsilano and help drivers from all over Vancouver get their local licence. Whether you’re new to Canada or just new to BC rules, we’re ready to help.