Your Complete B.C. Driver's Licence Document Checklist (ICBC ID Requirements)

One of the most common reasons for a frustrating, unsuccessful trip to an ICBC driver licensing office is arriving with incorrect or insufficient identification. To get your first British Columbia driver's licence or a BC Services Card, you must prove your identity to a very specific standard. Being prepared with the right documents is the key to a smooth process.

This guide provides a comprehensive checklist of the identification documents ICBC accepts. Use it to gather everything you need before your appointment so you can get it right on the first try.

The ICBC Identification Standard

ICBC requires all new applicants to provide two pieces of identification: one primary and one secondary.

Key Rules for Your ID:

Original Documents Only: You must present the original documents. Photocopies, scanned images, or laminated documents (like a Social Security card) are not accepted.
Name Consistency: The first and last names on both pieces of your ID must match. If your name has changed and is different on your primary ID (e.g., your birth certificate), you must provide a legal linking document, like a marriage certificate or legal name change certificate.

1. Primary Identification

You must provide one piece of primary ID. This document establishes your legal name, date of birth, and legal status in Canada. It must be issued by a federal, provincial, or territorial government.

Accepted Primary ID Documents:

Canadian Birth Certificate: A birth certificate from a Canadian province or territory.
Canadian Passport: Must be valid and not expired.
Canadian Citizenship Card or Certificate: The wallet-sized card or the larger certificate document.
Permanent Resident (PR) Card: Must be valid and not expired.
Secure Certificate of Indian Status (SCIS) Card: The federally issued status card.
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) Documents:
- Valid Study Permit
- Valid Work Permit
- Valid Visitor Permit
- Temporary Resident Permit
- Refugee Protection Claimant Document

Note: If your IRCC document is expired but you have applied for an extension, you may be able to present it along with the official receipt showing you have maintained status.

2. Secondary Identification

In addition to your primary ID, you must provide one piece of secondary ID. This document confirms your identity and must contain your name and either your photo or signature.

Accepted Secondary ID Documents:

BC Services Card / BCID Card: Your non-photo BC Services Card can be used as secondary ID. A photo BCID card can also be used.
Photo Driver's Licence: A valid driver's licence from another Canadian or U.S. jurisdiction.
Passport: A valid passport from any country.
Canadian Forces ID Card.
Police Identification.
Credit Card: A major credit card (e.g., Visa, MasterCard) with your name and signature on the back.
Debit Card: Must have your name and signature on the back.
Student ID Card: From a recognized Canadian post-secondary institution.
Employee ID Card with Photo: From a recognized employer.
Guarantor Declaration: If you don't have a piece of secondary ID, a parent, legal guardian, or other person who knows you can act as a guarantor by completing a declaration form at the licensing office. They will need to present their own valid ID.

Additional Requirements and Scenarios

For Minors (Under 19): A parent or legal guardian must attend the appointment to provide signed consent. They will also need to present their own valid identification.
Exchanging a Licence from Another Province: If you are a new resident with a valid licence from another Canadian province, you will need to present your out-of-province licence in addition to the required primary and secondary ID to exchange it for a B.C. licence.
Residency: While ICBC doesn't require separate proof-of-residency documents like utility bills for a first licence application, the address you provide will be printed on your licence, so ensure it is correct.

Final Checklist Before You Go

[ ] Book an Appointment: Save time by booking your appointment online at the ICBC website. [ ] One Piece of Original Primary ID: (e.g., Birth Certificate, Passport) [ ] One Piece of Original Secondary ID: (e.g., BC Services Card, Credit Card) [ ] Linking Documents (if needed): (e.g., Marriage Certificate) [ ] Parent/Guardian Present (if under 19): [ ] Payment for Fees: Be ready to pay for the knowledge test and licence card.

By carefully reviewing this checklist and gathering your documents ahead of time, you can be confident that you meet all of ICBC's strict identification requirements, making your visit a quick and successful one.