B.C.'s Teen Driving Laws: A Guide for Parents and New Drivers (GLP)
For a teenager in British Columbia, earning a driver's licence is a monumental step towards independence. For their parents, it marks the beginning of a new chapter of worry and responsibility. To bridge this gap and keep our newest drivers safe, B.C. uses the Graduated Licensing Program (GLP), a system managed by ICBC.
The GLP is a mandatory, two-stage program that has been proven to significantly reduce the number of crashes involving young, inexperienced drivers. It works by introducing privileges and responsibilities in stages, giving teens time to mature and develop skills in lower-risk conditions. This guide is designed for both parents and teens to clearly understand the rules, restrictions, and expectations at each stage.
The Core Principle: Safety Through Experience
The simple truth is that driving is the most dangerous activity most teens will ever undertake. Inexperience, combined with a tendency to be distracted, is a risky combination. The GLP framework is protective, not punitive. By setting limits on the most dangerous driving scenarios—such as driving with multiple teen passengers or after consuming alcohol—the program saves lives.
Stage 1: The Learner's (L) Licence
This is the foundational stage, beginning at age 16. It is entirely focused on learning and practice under constant supervision.
Key Learner (L) Stage Restrictions:
- A Qualified Supervisor is Mandatory: An 'L' driver can never drive alone. They must have a qualified supervisor in the front passenger seat at all times.
- Who is a qualified supervisor? This person must be 25 years of age or older and hold a valid Class 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 driver's licence. They must be able to take over control of the vehicle if necessary.
- Passenger Limit: This is a crucial rule. Besides the mandatory supervisor, an 'L' driver is only allowed one additional passenger. This rule dramatically reduces distraction.
- "L" Sign Display: A red, magnetic 'L' sign must be displayed on the back of the vehicle at all times. This signals to other drivers to be more patient and cautious.
- Absolute Zero Tolerance for Alcohol and Drugs: An 'L' driver must have a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) and blood drug concentration of 0.00%. There is no leeway on this rule.
- Total Ban on Electronic Devices: An 'L' driver cannot use any electronic device while driving, for any purpose. This includes hands-free systems, speakerphone, or music players connected via wire. The phone must be turned off and put away.
An 'L' driver must hold this licence for a minimum of 12 months before they can take their first road test.
Stage 2: The Novice (N) Licence
After a minimum of one year in the 'L' stage and passing the Class 7 road test, a teen graduates to the Novice licence. This is a huge step, as it allows for unsupervised driving, but critical safety restrictions remain in place for 24 months (2 years).
Key Novice (N) Stage Restrictions:
- Passenger Limit: An 'N' driver is restricted to carrying only one passenger.
- The Exception: This passenger limit does not apply if the passengers are immediate family members (defined as parent, step-parent, sibling, step-sibling, child, spouse, or grandparent).
- The limit is also waived if the 'N' driver is accompanied by a qualified supervisor (25+ with a valid Class 1-5 licence) in the front seat.
- "N" Sign Display: A green 'N' sign must be displayed on the back of the vehicle. This signals their novice status to other drivers and police.
- Continued Zero Tolerance: The 0.00% BAC and drug concentration rule remains in effect.
- Continued Ban on Electronic Devices: The strict ban on all electronic device use, including hands-free, continues throughout the entire 'N' stage.
The Parent's Role: Coach and Rule-Setter
A parent's involvement is the single most important factor in a teen's driving safety.
- Be a Good Supervisor: When supervising your 'L' driver, be an active coach. Provide calm, clear instruction. This is your time to impart your experience.
- Model Safe Driving: Your teen's driving habits started forming years ago by watching you. Always buckle up, obey speed limits, and never use your phone while driving.
- Enforce the Rules: The GLP restrictions are law. By enforcing them, you reinforce their importance and help your teen build a responsible attitude.
- Create a Driving Agreement: A written Parent-Teen Driving Agreement is a highly effective tool. It allows you to set your own family rules about things like who pays for gas, maintaining grades, or consequences for breaking the rules.
- Go Beyond the Minimum: The goal is not just to pass the test but to create a safe driver for life. Ensure your teen practices in all conditions—rain, night, highways, and heavy traffic—long after they get their 'N'.
By working together as a team, parents and teens can navigate the GLP successfully, building a foundation for a lifetime of safe and confident driving on B.C.'s roads.