On February 19, the British Columbia (BC) government announced that it would amend the law to allow driver’s license renewals to be completed online. According to a government announcement, drivers’ licences, BC Identification Cards (BCIDs) and photo BC Service Cards will be available for renewal and reissue online through the ICBC website.
The program applies to applications for reissue of a valid driver’s license if it is lost, broken, or damaged, and simple renewal of a driver’s license that does not require any changes other than extending the expiration date. This applies to full driver’s license holders of classes 1 to 8, and allows them to apply online for the renewal or reissue of their existing license, as well as the renewal or reissue of a standalone BCID, a standalone photo BC Service Card, and a combined driver’s license and BC Services Card. However, for Class 7 Learner’s Licence holders, lost or damaged licences can be replaced online, but renewals will still require a re-examination, which will require face-to-face contact.
Any changes to your license information, such as your name or address, will also require an in-person process, and you cannot update online if you have any outstanding fines, tickets, other violations, or rehabilitation program requirements.
Details of the online renewal process and eligibility are yet to be finalized. If the amendment is passed and relevant regulations are put in place, the system is expected to go into operation in 2027. This brings British Columbia into line with eight other provinces, including Ontario and Alberta, in offering the same services. If you wish to renew in person, you can do so at an ICBC centre as before.