Ultimate Guide to Getting Your Class 4 Unrestricted Licence in BC (2024)

Itcan be challenging to getyour class 4 unrestricted licence inCanada, especially if you are originally from another country. So we produced this guide to getting your class 4 licence in BC to help you.

What is a Class 4 Unrestricted Licence?

A class 4 unrestricted licence is a commercial driving licence. It is the licence you need to legally work in a wide variety of different jobs in BC that involve carrying passengers.

A class 4 unrestricted licence permits you to drive:

  • Buses with a maximum seating capacity of 25 persons (including the driver), including school buses, special activity buses and special vehicles used to transport people with disabilities.
  • Taxis and limousines.
  • For a ride-hailing service such as Whistle, Uberor Lyft.
  • Ambulances.
  • Any class 5 vehicle.

Information on all of the other licence types in British Columbia can be found here on the ICBC website.

Jump straight in and get started on your unrestricted class 4 licence.

Bookyour pre-trip inspection lesson here.

What Are the Benefits of Getting a Class 4 Unrestricted Licence in Whistler?

Whistler is a resort municipality in British Columbia. It is about 2-3 hours away from Vancouver Airport in British Columbia and is home to the Whistler Blackcomb ski resort plus a long list of other tourism businesses.

Many of these tourism businesses offer jobs that require you to have a class 4 unrestricted licence and often pay more for having it.

These businesses include:

  • Airport transfer companies like Whistler Connection.
  • Hotels that have their own local shuttle service.
  • Activity operators like ziplines, snowmobile tours and rafting.
  • Heliskiing and aviation.

We spoke to a range of different people in Whistler about the benefits of getting a class 4 unrestricted licence. The most common responses were:

  • You get paid more. Many businesses have pay structures based on qualifications and a class 4 unrestricted license often results in a higher wage.
  • You get interviewed first. HR managers told us they are always looking for people with this qualification.
  • You get tips. Most class 4 drivers report receiving gratuities from their guests in Whistler.
  • You get a choice. There are a wide range of different employers looking for your skills as a class 4 unrestricted driver. Find the job that suits you.

Are youinterested in diversifying your skills, getting paid more and having options for full time, part time or casual driving jobs in Whistler? You can start by making sure you are eligible for a class 4 unrestricted licence.

How do Ibegin the process of getting a Class 4?

In order to begin the process, one must already possess a Class 5 drivers licence in BC. For many international countries and provinces within Canada, this is a rather painless endeavour.

Most people will be able to take their driver's licence from their home driving authority into ICBC and will be able to switch to a BC Class 5.

B.C. has reciprocal licence exchange agreements with many countries, including:

  • Austria
  • Australia
  • Belgium
  • France
  • Germany
  • Guernsey, Isle of Man, Jersey
  • Ireland
  • Japan
  • Netherlands
  • Except former territories in Antilles: Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao, Saba, St. Eustatius, and St. Maarten.
  • New Zealand
  • South Korea (not motorcycles)
  • Switzerland
  • Taiwan (not motorcycles)
  • If you're from Taiwan you will be able to exchange your licence for a passenger vehicle licence only. (see ICBC website for further details)
  • United Kingdom (includes England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland)
  • United States (includes Washington DC and Puerto Rico)

Click here to begin the process of getting your class 4 unrestricted licence in Whistler by booking a pre-trip inspection lesson.

Do I Qualify?

Eligibility Requirements for Class 4 Unrestricted:

  1. Be at least 19 years of age
  2. Possess a full-privilege BC drivers licence (Class 5 or 6)
  3. Must have a minimum of 2 years of non-learner driving experience
  4. Provide all driving records from each jurisdiction (licensing authorities) in which you have driven within the past three years, and submit this for review by an ICBC approved translator

The combination of your out-of-province and B.C. driving records must:

  • Have less than four offences that resulted in penalty points
  • Have no motor vehicle-related Criminal Code convictions (or the equivalent if your records are from outside Canada) within the last 3 years
  • Be dated within 90 days of submitting it

Driving records must be original!Photocopies, scanned copies, downloaded records, or third party faxed records are not acceptable.

International Driving Records

The largest delays in the Class 4 process are generally related to obtaining driving records from overseas.

It is very important to make sure that your home driving authority is including all necessary information on the records to avoid further delay.

  • Your driving record(s) must be dated within 90 days of submitting it
  • Your driving record(s) must be original documents, which are signed by the relevant driving authority and sealed in an envelope. Photocopies, scanned copies, downloaded records, or third party faxed records are not acceptable

Driving records must include:

  • a list of any penalty points in your jurisdiction (to pass the pre screening you must have fewer than four offences that resulted in penalty points, this includes any penalty points incurred on your BC driving record
  • confirm whether the driver has any motor vehicle-related Criminal Code convictions (or the equivalent if your records are from outside Canada, in order to pass pre screening you must have no motor vehicle-related Criminal Code convictions)

Once the original driving record(s) have been submitted to the head ICBC branch in Victoria, it can take anywhere from 30-60 days for the records to be approved.

Get Your Class 4 Learners Licence

The Class 4 theory test can be taken at any ICBC branch that offers drivers licensing services.

The 3 locations available in the sea to sky are:

Whistler:4370 Lorimer Rd #232, Whistler BC
Squamish: 1325 Pemberton Ave, Squamish BC
Pemberton:1385 Birch Road, Pemberton BC

Bring with you:

  • 2 pieces of accepted ID.
  • Any glasses or contacts needed for the vision test.
  • $15 fee for the theory test.

It is important to prepare for the theory test, especially if you are coming from another country as some road rules are different here in BC.

ICBC provides practices testsherethat are great tools for studying the rules of the road and road signs.

The main resource for preparing is the "Driving Commercial Vehicles" Manual that can be foundhere.

Once you've successfully passed your theory test, remember to book a day for your road test so you have a date to work towards. Book several weeks into the future to provide ample time to prepare.

How to Prepare for Your Class 4 Unrestricted Road Test

The unrestricted class 4 road test is broken up into two portions:

  1. Pre-trip vehicle inspection.
  2. The actual road test.

It is very important that candidates put in the necessary time and effort into preparing for both of these. The best way to prepare is by enrolling with a certified driving school.

Whistler Driving School will clean up any old driving habits and open your eyes to a world of safe driving and smooth operating. We’ll also get candidates comfortable with the ins and outs of the pre-trip inspection and get you road test ready.

  • One-on-one training with an experienced Class 4 trainer
  • Pre-Trip demonstration with sheets to follow along
  • Time for student to go through the pre trip several times and highlight any difficulties or unknown sections of the vehicle
  • Drive time to figure out where students need to focus attention
  • Main areas of focus:
    • Observation skills at intersections and high volume areas
    • Road marking and sign identification
    • Parking and reversing procedures
    • Space margins
    • General knowledge of road rules
    • Hazard identification
    • Smooth handling of vehicle

Pass Your Road Test

Ready for your road test? Bring your approved class 4 vehicle to your road test location and pass that test!

Make sure you remember to bring:

  • Class 4 learners permit
  • Government issued photo ID
  • Any eyeglasses/contacts required for driving
  • Payment for fees associated with road test and licensing

If you are unsuccessful on the first attempt, you must complete a 14 day waiting period from the first attempt. Every test afterwards requires a 30 day waiting period between attempts.

How Much Does a Class 4 Unrestricted Licence Cost?

In addition to the costs of training, you'll likely need to pay for:

  • Knowledge test fee: $15
  • Class 4 road test fee: $40
  • Medical exam fee: $28
  • License upgrade: $17

Both knowledge and road test fees are per attempt. If only the driving portion of the road test is successful. The pre-trip can be retested for $20.

All licencesexpiring within 180 days are considered renewals. A $75 fee is required for a 5-year licence renewal.

The medical examination will have to be completed by a physician. Fees for this are different per practitionerand generally range from $80-$125.

To get started on your journey to more employment opportunities, book your pre-trip inspection training with Whistler Driving School so you can learn from local professionals.

Ultimate Guide to Getting Your Class 4 Unrestricted Licence in BC (2024)

FAQs

How do I get my Class 4 unrestricted license in BC? ›

Minimum Class 4 commercial driver's licence
  1. be at least 19 years old.
  2. have a valid class 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 licence, or equivalent licence, with at least two years of non-learner driver experience.
  3. demonstrate an acceptable driving record.
  4. pass a Class 4 knowledge test and road test.

How many questions are on the ICBC Class 4 knowledge test? ›

The knowledge test is not designed to trick you. Here's a brief overview: There's 50 questions in total and customers need to answer 40 of them correctly to pass.

Is it easy to get Class 4 license in BC? ›

Class 4 Licence Requirements

Driving record with fewer than four penalty points in the past two years. No motor vehicle-related Criminal Code convictions in the past three years. Meet medical standards and pass a driver's medical exam. Pass a road test with a vehicle suited to the Class 4 licence.

How to prepare for ICBC Class 4 knowledge test? ›

Take the practice knowledge test

Taking the online practice test gives you a good chance of passing the knowledge test and getting on the road with your learner's licence. The questions are based on the real test (with some differences) so you'll know what to expect and can take the knowledge test with confidence.

How do I pass my restricted license? ›

Pass your Restricted Driving Test the First Time
  1. Understand the layout of the test. Prepare yourself by familiarising yourself with the different parts of the test. ...
  2. Take a defensive driving course. ...
  3. Check your blind spots. ...
  4. Ace your parallel park. ...
  5. Stay calm. ...
  6. Book a driving lesson. ...
  7. If you fail, don't be discouraged.

How long does it take to get a Class 4 license in BC? ›

Having a minimum of two years of non-learner driving experience; Provide your driving record(s) from each jurisdiction in which you have driven within the past three years.

What is the passing score for ICBC knowledge test? ›

To get your L you'll need to get 40 out of 50 questions right on a multiple-choice knowledge test. Passing it ensures you understand the rules of the road.

How do I pass my full licence test BC? ›

Top five tips for a successful road test:
  1. Be ready. Driving experience and training are important. ...
  2. Examine your vehicle. Bring a safe, reliable vehicle for your road test. ...
  3. Calm yourself. Do some last minute practice on more challenging maneuvers like parallel and reverse-stall parking. ...
  4. Heighten awareness. ...
  5. Ask questions.
Jul 21, 2022

How many times can you fail your drivers test in BC? ›

If you fail the road test three times, you will not be eligible for your license until you have taken and passed the Driver Improvement Program.

How long does it take to get your full license in BC? ›

You can apply for your full licence after having your N for at least 24 months of safe driving with no prohibitions (or possibly 18 months, if you took an ICBC-approved driver training course in your L stage and were a safe driver during that period).

What is the requirement for Class 4 license? ›

Foreigners (e.g. Work permit holders and S pass holders) applying for Class 4 or Class 5 PDL will need to apply in person at the Woodlands Test Centre (WTC) at SSDC level 1. Please bring the following documents for verification: Singapore driving licence showing that they possess valid Class 3 driving licence.

How do I pass CPC Module 4? ›

You can score up to 20 points for each topic. To pass you have to score at least 15 out of 20 in each topic area and have an overall score of at least 80 out of 100.

What is the easiest way to pass driving test? ›

How to pass your driving test quickly
  1. Be on time. ...
  2. Have a lesson beforehand. ...
  3. Check you have everything you need. ...
  4. Use your instructor's car. ...
  5. Take your instructor along for reassurance. ...
  6. Ask your examiner to repeat, if you need. ...
  7. Don't assume you've failed. ...
  8. Choose where you want to take your test.
Oct 26, 2022

What questions are on the ICBC knowledge test? ›

It is based on the official Driver's Handbook and will quiz you on BC road signs and rules, driving and parking regulations and techniques, vehicle licensing and registration information in British Columbia. Each of the 50 questions will provide 4 options to choose from.

How long does it take to go from restricted to full license? ›

Here's everything you need to know. If you're under 25, to apply for a full licence, you must have held your restricted licence for at least 18 months (or 12 months if you've completed an advanced driving course).

How many people fail their restricted test? ›

There are more people sitting their restricted driving test than 10 years ago, but those failing are also increasing. Fail rates for the restricted driver licence in 2007 were 21 per cent out of the 81,682 who sat it. By 2017, 116,794 people tried for restricted driver status and 43 per cent didn't make it.

How long can you sit on your restricted licence? ›

You may apply for a Full Licence after you have had your Restricted Licence for 18 months if you're under 25 years of age, or in 6 months if you're 25 and over.

What is the difference between restricted and unrestricted Class 4 in BC? ›

* If you pass your test using a vehicle with a seating capacity of up to 10 (including the driver), you will receive a restricted Class 4 licence (the minimum required for ride-hailing). If you pass your test using a vehicle with seating for 11-25, an unrestricted Class 4 licence will be granted.

How do I book a Class 4 knowledge test in BC? ›

Find your nearest driver licensing office

Find the office nearest you and click/tap the green or blue map pin to either book your appointment online (at an ICBC driver licensing office or Service BC Centre) or to find the contact information for the nearest appointed agent.

Can a Class 4 drive a bus? ›

To drive an Omnibus, you need: Class 4A driving licence. Omnibus Driver's Vocational Licence (ODVL)

What is the 12 second rule in driving? ›

There is one rule that the Department of Motor Vehicles recommends all motorists do to avoid collisions with such objects. It advises that drivers should scan the road at least 12 seconds ahead to avoid potential trouble spots and to identify possible road hazards.

What is the best app for driving knowledge test? ›

DMV Genie is the only program recommended by DMVs, top driving schools, and independent instructors. It's the highest-rated driver's ed study tool on the market, and 6M+ drivers just like yourself already know it.

How many questions is the knowledge test BC? ›

You'll need to pass a written exam called ICBC Knowledge Test before you can receive your BC learner's licence. You'll take the 50 multiple choice questions test on a computer at your local driver licensing office and you'll need to get 40 out of 50 questions right to get your "L".

What does N mean in BC driving? ›

Having an N means you are now a novice driver and are allowed to drive on your own. It's important to follow the restrictions of graduated licensing when you get your N. If you violate these restrictions or get any other tickets or prohibitions, you must pay graduated licensing penalties. ​

How do I pass my driving test manually? ›

How to pass your driving test
  1. Practice as much as you can.
  2. Learn how to follow a sat nav and road signs.
  3. Go over the theory information.
  4. Book your driving test only when you're ready.
  5. Choose the right test centre.
  6. Practice in and around your chosen test centre.
  7. Get a good night's sleep.
  8. Eat and drink before your test.
Jul 26, 2022

What can they fail you for on driving test? ›

The most common driving test fails
  • Observation at junctions.
  • Use of mirrors when changing direction.
  • Lack of control when steering.
  • Turning right at a junction.
  • Moving off unsafely.
  • Incorrect response to traffic lights.
  • Lack of control when moving off.
  • Incorrect positioning during normal driving.
Apr 11, 2022

Can you argue a driving test fail? ›

Examiners don't want to fail candidates unless they have to, so it is unusual to appeal against the result of your driving test. However, if you do feel that the examiner didn't follow the regulations while carrying out your test, you can appeal the result.

What time is best to take road test? ›

A spokesperson for Dayinsure commented: “Evening pass rates may be higher, especially after 7pm, due to the quieter roads after rush hour traffic. Likewise, late morning and lunch times see more cars on the road, potentially causing more problems for new and nervous drivers.”

Can you cross hands on driving test? ›

Contrary to popular belief, crossing your hands on the wheel won't result in your failure. Examiners look for you to be in control of the vehicle and steering wheel, but this doesn't mean you'll automatically fail if you move your hands from the recommended position of around '3 and 9 o clock'.

Can I drive in BC with a foreign license? ›

Visitors. If you are a visitor to B.C. you can drive for up to six months if you hold a valid foreign or out-of-province licence. Any restrictions on your licence apply in B.C.

Can I drive Uber with Class 5 license in BC? ›

British Columbia rideshare drivers need a valid Class 1, 2, or 4 licence in order to drive with Uber. Learn more about getting your Class 4 driver's licence below.

What class is a full license in BC? ›

3. Full licence. A full Class 5 driver's licence is the final step in B.C.'s graduation program. You can apply for a full licence after two years of safe driving as a novice driver and completing the Class 5 road test.

How do I get my full license in Canada? ›

To apply for a licence, you must be at least 16 years old, pass a vision test and pass a test of your knowledge of the rules of the road and traffic signs. After you pass these tests, you will enter Level One and get a Class G1 licence. You must pass two road tests to become fully licensed.

Can I drive in Ontario with a BC license? ›

When you move to Ontario, you can use a valid licence from another province, state or country for 60 days. After 60 days, you need to switch to an Ontario driver's licence.

Can I pass my driving test in a month? ›

Yes, you can pass your driving test within a week, however, some people may require more time behind the wheel before taking their test. We offer a 7-day intensive driving course which provides you with everything you need to know before taking your theory and practical test.

What are the four types of licenses? ›

There are four types of driving license in India, which are: Learner's driving license, Permanent driving license, Commercial driving license, and International driving permit.

What is Class 4 weight limit? ›

A Class 4 licence is required for a Rigid Truck over 18,000kgs & up to 25,000kg gross vehicle mass (GVM) or any two axle truck. The GVM is the maximum weight the manufacturer states the vehicle is capable of carrying regardless of how much it actually weighs at any time.

What is a Class 4 license in Canada? ›

CLASS 4 LICENCE VEHICLES THAT MAY BE OPERATED Taxis, ambulance, or a bus with a seating capacity of not more than 24, excluding the operator. CLASS 4 LICENCE Permits the holder to operate any motor vehicle or combination of motor vehicles that the holder of a Class 5 operator's licence may operate.

How many people fail the CPC exam the first time? ›

And with new changes to the test for 2022, every single answer counts more than ever before. A variety of sources show that ONLY about 50% of coders receive the necessary 70% score to pass the CPC® Exam on the first try. That means that half of all test-takers need a second shot at passing.

How hard is it to pass CPC test? ›

You must get 42 out of 60 questions right (or 28 out of 40 with CILT), not an easy task. With multiple choice, it's practice, practice and more practice. All our transport manager CPC courses have a wealth of practice multiple choice papers for you to complete.

How many questions can you miss on the CPC exam and still pass? ›

You must answer a minimum of 70 questions correctly in order to pass the exam (70%).

What is the hardest thing in a driving test? ›

It turns out most new drivers think the trickiest driving task is... parallel parking.
...
In fact, two of the top three most difficult tasks to master involved parking:
  • Parallel parking (72% of drivers)
  • Driving near pedestrians, cyclists and/or motorcyclists (42%)
  • Reverse parking (41%)

What do driving examiners look for? ›

The examiner will be looking for evidence of good driving habits, including good observations, control of the vehicle, following the road and traffic signs, appropriate positioning on the road, appropriate speed, independent driving, and effective use of signals.

How many questions are on the class 4 knowledge test BC? ›

The knowledge test is not designed to trick you. Here's a brief overview: There's 50 questions in total and customers need to answer 40 of them correctly to pass. On average, it takes 26 minutes to complete.

How do I prepare for the knowledge test in BC? ›

Taking the online practice test gives you a good chance of passing the knowledge test and getting on the road with your learner's licence. The questions are based on the real test (with some differences) so you'll know what to expect and can take the knowledge test with confidence.

What is restriction 4 on a driver's license? ›

4) Restriction 4: This permits the driver to manuever a vehicle with GVW up to 4,500kgs with automatic transmission. However, he is not authorized to drive a unit with a manual transmission under the same weight category.

How do I renew my class 4 license in BC? ›

How to renew
  1. Book an appointment to renew your BCID at an ICBC driver licensing office.
  2. Bring two pieces of accepted ID.
  3. Pay the fee for your new BCID.
  4. Find out if your card is in the mail while you wait.

What are four 4 restrictions on a learner driver in BC? ›

Learners (L) Drivers must:

Drive with a qualified supervisor, in the front seat, 25 or older, who has a valid driver's license. Carry no more than two passengers, including your supervisor – drive only between 5 a.m. and midnight. Display your red L sign. Avoid alcohol while driving (no alcohol in body)

What is the most common restriction on a license? ›

The most common type of restricted license is for vision requirements — anyone, at any age, who uses glasses or contacts to be able to meet the DMV's vision standards will receive a restricted license that says they may only drive while wearing their corrective eyewear.

What is a restricted license in BC? ›

RoadSafetyBC can add restrictions to a licence if the driver has a medical condition or functional deficit that requires the use of a device or technology to enable them to safely operate a motor vehicle. ICBC can also add restrictions. For more information about them, see ICBC's Licence restrictions page.

What is code 101 on driving licence? ›

D1(101) licence

If you passed your driving test before 1997, your D1 licence would automatically include the code 101. This code means that you can drive a minibus, with between 9 – 17 seats, including the driver, on a 'not for hire-or-reward' basis.

What happens if you let your license expires BC? ›

It's an offence punishable by a $500 fine and up to six months in jail for a first offence.

What can I drive with a Class 4 license in BC? ›

Class 4 (unrestricted)
  • To drive buses with a maximum seating capacity of 25 persons (including the driver), including school buses, special activity buses and special vehicles used to transport people with disabilities.
  • To drive taxis and limousines.
  • To drive for a ride-hailing service such as Uber or Lyft.

How much does it cost to reinstate your license in BC? ›

Once you have paid that, go to an ICBC driver licencing office with your ID. You will have to pay a $31 short-term driver's licence fee and a $250 reinstatement fee.

What can I drive with restriction 4? ›

Simply put, those with a 2 and 3 can drive cars with either a manual or automatic transmission, while those with a 4 and 5 are restricted only to cars with automatic transmissions.

Can a 14 year old drive in BC? ›

Introduction. Getting your driver's licence and driving a car are exciting steps towards becoming independent. In BC, you can get a learner's license to drive from the age of 16.

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