The Ultimate B.C. Road Test Checklist: Be Prepared, Not Surprised

The day of your ICBC road test is a major milestone. It's the moment you prove that you have the skills to drive safely and independently on British Columbia's roads. While it's completely normal to feel a bit nervous, the best antidote is solid preparation.

A surprising number of road tests are cancelled before they even begin—not due to driving ability, but because of a simple issue with the vehicle or missing paperwork. Don't let that be you. This ultimate checklist will ensure your vehicle is test-ready, your documents are in order, and you know exactly what to expect.

Section 1: The Vehicle Readiness Checklist

Before you can demonstrate your driving skills, the ICBC examiner will conduct a pre-trip vehicle check. If your car, truck, or van fails this safety inspection, your test will be cancelled, and you may have to pay a cancellation fee. Go through this list the day before your test.

Vehicle Essentials:

Valid Insurance and Registration: You must have the original, current vehicle registration and proof of insurance in the vehicle. Make sure they are not expired.
Working Headlights and Taillights: Check both high and low beams, taillights, and your licence plate light.
Functional Brake Lights: All brake lights, including the centre (third) brake light, must work. Have a friend or family member help you check them by pressing the brake pedal.
Working Turn Signals and Hazard Lights: Test your left and right signals (front and back) and your four-way flashers.
An Audible Horn: The horn must work and be loud enough to be heard by other drivers.
Functional Speedometer: Your speedometer must be in working order.
Clear Windshield and Windows: The windshield must be free of large cracks or chips that obstruct the driver's view. All windows must be clean.
Working Wipers and Washer Fluid: Your windshield wipers must function correctly, and you should have washer fluid.
Properly Inflated Tires: Ensure your tires have adequate tread and are inflated to the recommended pressure.
Secure Doors and Seatbelts: The driver and passenger doors must open and close from both the inside and out. The seatbelts for both you and the examiner must fasten securely.
Sufficient Fuel: Arrive with at least a quarter tank of gas.
Appropriate "L" or "N" Sign: If you are taking the Class 5 road test to get your full licence, you must remove your green "N" sign before the test begins. If you fail, you must put it back on to drive away.

Section 2: The Driver Documentation Checklist

Once the vehicle is approved, you need to present your own documentation to the examiner.

Your Current B.C. Driver's Licence: You must bring your physical Class 7L (Learner's) or Class 7N (Novice) licence card.
Accepted ID: You will need your driver's licence plus a second piece of acceptable ID (like a BC Services Card, passport, or birth certificate).
Proof of Test Booking: Have your booking confirmation email or details ready.
Payment for Fees: Be prepared to pay the licensing fee after you pass your test.
Corrective Lenses: If your licence has a condition code (e.g., Code 21) requiring you to wear glasses or contacts, you must be wearing them for the test.

Section 3: The Driving Skills You'll Be Tested On

The road test is not about performing trick maneuvers; it's about demonstrating consistent, safe driving habits. The examiner will be evaluating your ability to apply the knowledge from the "Learn to Drive Smart" guide. Be ready to show proficiency in:

Observation: This is paramount. Examiners watch this closely.
- Shoulder checks: Before every lane change, turn, and when pulling out from the side of the road.
- Mirror checks: Every 5-8 seconds.
- Scanning: Looking ahead, checking intersections, and being aware of your complete surroundings.
Vehicle Control: Smooth steering, braking, and acceleration.
Intersection Management: Safely navigating intersections with and without traffic controls. This includes demonstrating correct right-of-way procedures.
Hazard Perception: Identifying potential risks (like pedestrians, cyclists, or a car pulling out) and reacting appropriately.
Parking: You will be asked to perform maneuvers such as:
- Pulling over and stopping on the side of the road.
- Parking on a hill (uphill or downhill).
- Reverse-stall parking (backing into a parking spot).
- Parallel parking may also be included.
Following the Law: Obeying all speed limits (especially in school and playground zones), signs, and signals.

On Test Day: Final Reminders

Arrive Early: Get to the driver licensing office at least 15 minutes before your scheduled appointment. This gives you time to park, check in, and calm your nerves.
Stay Calm and Focused: Take a few deep breaths. The examiner is not trying to trick you; they are simply giving you instructions to follow.
Listen Carefully: If you don't understand an instruction, it's okay to ask for clarification.

By using this checklist to prepare, you eliminate the risk of being turned away for a preventable reason. You can then focus all your energy on what matters: driving safely and passing your B.C. road test. Good luck!