Renewing your British Columbia driver’s license could soon be a breeze with proposed changes to the Motor Vehicle Act.
The province is considering amendments that would allow drivers to conveniently renew or replace their driver’s licenses, BC Identification (BCID), and photo BC Service Cards online via the ICBC website.
This new process aims to save time, especially for individuals in remote areas who currently face long journeys for in-person appointments. However, the online service is not expected to be operational until 2027.
Eligible individuals holding full B.C. licenses ranging from classes 1 to 8 will be able to take advantage of online renewals, even in cases where their licenses are lost, damaged, or destroyed.
It’s important to note that individuals with learner’s licenses will still be required to attend in-person appointments. The same applies to those needing to update their name or address, and individuals with unresolved fines, tickets, or violations.
While other provinces like Ontario and Alberta already offer online renewal options for driver’s licenses, British Columbia aims to streamline the process to make it more convenient for residents. Niki Sharma, Attorney General and minister responsible for ICBC, highlighted the challenges many people face in taking time off work or traveling long distances for ID renewal or replacement.
The province emphasizes that the online service is part of ICBC’s extensive 10-year modernization program, aimed at enhancing customer convenience and service efficiency.