Kelowna 
The British Columbia government is preparing to move some driver licensing services online.
Credit:Govt. of BC
Proposed amendments to the Motor Vehicle Act would allow Insurance Corporation of British Columbia (ICBC) to handle certain renewals and replacements for driver’s licences, BC Identification cards and photo BC Service Cards through its website. The goal is straightforward: reduce office visits and ease wait times.
Attorney General Niki Sharma said many residents currently have to take time off work or travel long distances to manage routine renewals. She noted the change would particularly help people in rural and remote communities.
If the legislation passes, eligible drivers with full B.C. licences, Classes 1 through 8, could renew their licence when only the expiry date needs extending. They could also replace a licence that has been lost, damaged or destroyed. ICBC would extend similar online options to stand-alone BCID cards, stand-alone photo BC Service Cards and the combined driver’s licence and BC Services Card.
Not every situation would qualify. Drivers with Class 7 learner’s licences could replace a lost or damaged card online, but renewals would still require an in-person visit, including retesting. Any renewal involving changes to personal information, such as a name or address update, would also need to be done at an office. People with outstanding fines, tickets or remedial program requirements would not be eligible for online renewal.
Further details on eligibility will be set through regulation. If approved and implemented, the new system is expected to launch in 2027.
ICBC president and CEO Jason McDaniel described the move as part of a broader 10-year modernization plan aimed at expanding digital services and upgrading technology. B.C. would join eight other provinces, including Ontario and Alberta, that already offer some form of online licence renewal.
In-person appointments will remain available.
