Blogs & Vlogs
If you’re new to Canada and trying to figure out how driving works here, you’re not alone. Lots of newcomers feel confused about licences, road rules, and where to even begin. Vancouver roads can be tricky at first. But once you get the hang of it, things start to feel normal.
This guide is for folks who just moved to Canada and want to drive legally, safely, and with more confidence. Especially here in Vancouver.
Do You Need to Take a Driving Test Right Away?
It depends on where you’re from. Some countries have licence agreements with BC. That means you can trade your licence from back home for a BC one without doing a test.
But many people do need to:
- Take a knowledge test
- Pass a road test
- Possibly go through a “graduated” licence system, like locals do
If you're not sure, you can check with ICBC. Or just ask during lessons. At Kits Elite Driving School, we help people with these questions every day.
Driving in Vancouver Feels Different
Even if you’ve been driving for years in your home country, roads in Canada can feel totally different. For example:
- We drive on the right side
- There are 4-way stops and yield signs in lots of neighborhoods
- Bike lanes and pedestrian crossings are common
- You’ll see school zones, playground signs, and speed limit changes
- Weather, especially rain, changes how the road feels
In Vancouver, there are also hills, cyclists, one-way streets, and lots of pedestrians. Driving here takes patience and attention.
Language Can Be a Challenge Too
If English isn’t your first language, some signs or test questions might be confusing. That’s okay. You can take lessons in your own language if you need to. At Kits Elite, we’ve taught students in English, Persian, and Turkish. It helps a lot when someone explains things in words you already understand.
We also give you tips for passing the knowledge test, which is often harder than people expect.
Practice Helps You Feel More in Control
Driving in a new country can feel scary. That’s normal. The more you practice with a calm instructor, the better it gets.
A good lesson plan includes:
- Local road habits
- Common test routes
- Hill parking and lane changes
- Rules for sharing the road with bikes and buses
We work with people from all backgrounds. Whether you're doing your Class 7 learner’s licence or going straight for a Class 5 full licence, we’ll go at your pace.
What If You Just Need a Few Lessons?
That works too. Some people just want to feel more ready before the road test. Others haven’t driven in a while and want to get back into it. We offer flexible sessions. You can see the rates here.
You’re Not Alone
If you feel nervous or unsure, you’re not the only one. Every year, lots of new immigrants come to Vancouver and need help learning to drive here. The roads, rules, and weather are new. But with the right support, you can handle it.
At Kits Elite Driving School, we’re based in Kitsilano and teach students from all over Vancouver. We’re patient, local, and ready to help you feel confident behind the wheel.