Canada is one of the favorite destinations for international students. Every year thousands of students come from all over the world to study in this beautiful country. Some students stay in college campus accommodations while some prefer staying outside. Public transportation is very convenient in Canada, especially in British Columbia and Toronto, but if you know how to drive a car then it no doubt becomes even more convenient to reach your college or job on time.
International students can drive a car in Canada with a valid driving license if they are at least 16 years of age. All you must do is abide by the provinces’ rules and regulations. Meeting the requirements of the province where you are studying is also mandatory.
Let’s discuss how you can drive in Canada as an international student.
If you have experience driving back home in India, and you have an Indian driver’s license then you can drive in British Columbia for 90 days. This applies to all irrespective of what status they hold whether Permanent Resident or tourist.
However, if you are on a student visa, you can drive a car on an Indian driver’s license till the time you are a full-time student.
What is ICBC?
The local licensing authority for the issuance of a B.C. driving license is called the Insurance Corporation of British Columbia (ICBC).
Drive-in British Columbia as a Student
Upon arrival in BC, you will have almost 90 days to switch your valid Indian license to a BC driver’s license. You can also get an International Driver’s license from your home country to drive in Canada.
Take the practice knowledge test
Even if you were driving in India, it is always a good idea to learn the driving rules of the new country before directly starting driving which you can read and learn even before arriving in Canada. Make yourself familiar with the traffic rules of Canada and prepare well in advance.
Steps to acquire Driver’s License
- Knowledge Test
This is the first step in taking your Driver’s License. It is recommended to take as many online practice tests as it gives you a good chance of passing the knowledge test and getting on the road with your learner’s license. The questions are based on the real test (with some differences of course) so you’ll know what kind of questions will come in the main test. The test has up to 50 multiple choice questions.
The practice test is available in English, Chinese and Punjabi.
Click on the link ICBC Practice Knowledge Test App to download the app for the same and practice as much as possible.
You must score a minimum 80% in the knowledge test otherwise you will have to give the test all over again.
- Road Test
Once you complete the knowledge test, next comes the road test. You will have to find an ICBC (Insurance Corporation of British Columbia) location that offers the type of road test you need.
If you have more than two years of driving experience in India, you will get a full, ‘Class 5’ license. In other cases, those with less than two years of experience will get a ‘Class 7’ novice license and may then apply for a full ‘Class 5’ license. This can be done after gaining two years of driving experience.
What if I fail a road test?
In this case, you may take the road test again:
- 14 days after your first test
- 30 days after your second test
- 60 days after your third and subsequent tests
Click here, to learn how to prepare for the road test appointment.
All the best for your driving test! Make sure to always stay alert, vigilant, and safe on road.
Source: ICBC BC Driving License Learn to drive smart Get a driver’s license in Canada
