Passing the B.C Driving Test
Jul 15th 2007 | 3:24 pm
#31
Forum Regular
Joined: Jul 2005
Posts: 82
Re: Passing the B.C Driving Test
For anyone who has taken the test before March of 2007, things have really changed as there is now a Class 7 and a Class 5 level. So new drivers, the young teens actually have to take the test twice now. First they get their class 7 and then later on they get their Class 5....So you have twice as many teens going through the queue...So anyone trying to take a test now will have trouble booking it soon or even getting a driving lesson...Just passing on what is happening now in the North Okanagan.
Jul 20th 2007 | 9:05 am
#32
Just Joined
Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 1
Re: Passing the B.C Driving Test
Just passed my B.C Driving Test this morning. 
What a relief...
Passed the theory test a few weeks ago but the driving instructor stumped me before we even set off my asking me to show him the emergency hand signals (completely forgot what the right turn was - doh!). Anyway rest of the test went fine and after an hour of sweaty palms i got my B.C. driving licence (and more importantly got my UK licence back - which they keep if you fail!).
If anybody needs any advice or tips i have been through the process and have the examiners score sheet results which shows what they assess.
I did an un-scheduled test in Victoria i.e. you just queue up at the centre first thing in the morning and wait for a vacant spot (about a 2 hour wait).
Good luck to anyone who needs to take the test, and remember - shoulder check, shoulder check, shoulder check.
What a relief... Passed the theory test a few weeks ago but the driving instructor stumped me before we even set off my asking me to show him the emergency hand signals (completely forgot what the right turn was - doh!). Anyway rest of the test went fine and after an hour of sweaty palms i got my B.C. driving licence (and more importantly got my UK licence back - which they keep if you fail!).
If anybody needs any advice or tips i have been through the process and have the examiners score sheet results which shows what they assess.
I did an un-scheduled test in Victoria i.e. you just queue up at the centre first thing in the morning and wait for a vacant spot (about a 2 hour wait).Good luck to anyone who needs to take the test, and remember - shoulder check, shoulder check, shoulder check.
Hey im going for my driving test in October and i was wondering if u would give me some pointers or tips or whatever you call them ok thanks and i was also wondering if u had that examiners score sheet results which shows what they assess. if i could get i copy of that if i can can u please e-mail it to me that would be great
Jul 20th 2007 | 9:20 am
#33
BE Forum Addict
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 2,514
From: Kelowna
Re: Passing the B.C Driving Test
OK...Here is our situation with this. My UK partner landed here June 14th, 2007. We went in to the local BC Access to get his theory test and they would not accept his carbon copy of his PR as a primary form of ID. They would only accept his real PR card. We assume that it is coming soon...The crux of this all is that he can't take the theory test until he has his PR card and then after he takes his theory he can then and only then book the driver's test and that is now backed up to October. (We are here in Vernon, in the North Okanagan). So, even if everything went perfectly, we have to wait 6 weeks to get the PR card, then he has to do the theory and then he has to wait 3 months to take the road test...So how is he supposed to squeeze 4 and a half months worth of waiting for the PR card and then taking the theory and then the road test in the required 3 months that is allowed to convert a UK licence to a BC licence. Just wondered if anyone is having the same problem with their PR carbon copy not being good enough identification. If there is a problem then maybe 6 months needs to be allowed to a)get the pr card b) take the theory test and c) take the road test...The math just isn't there...
We tried the ICBC in Kelowna twice and they just wouldn't let us do anything without our PR cards. The cards arrived two days ago and we have been here 6 weeks today.
As soon as they arrived we went down and my wife, who had studied the book, took her knowledge test and passed, they then offered her a cancellation date for next week but as they were checking it appeared that they had received several "no shows" so the guy said he could take her out then and there. So 45 minutes later she came back having passed with a smile from ear to ear, all over and done with in one afternoon.
I have only read to page 35 so far but must get on with it soon.
I did try and get a straight answer from them about going over the 90 days as surely if we had passed the theory and they couldn't fit us in it wasn't our fault. The woman said that it's unlikely you would get a ticket from the police but there could be an issue with your insurance but she couldn't confirm anything.
Jul 20th 2007 | 9:36 am
#34
BE Forum Addict
Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 1,201
From: Vancouver, BC
Re: Passing the B.C Driving Test
Well as insurance companies take any excuse not to pay out then I really wouldn't risk driving after the 90 days.
As ICBC does insurance AND driving tests, I might accept a letter from them saying this to cover myself.
Congrats to your wife, and good luck to you.
I'm still confused why myself and OH could sit the tests without PR cards, and yet you had to wait, and potentially invalidate your insurance.
As ICBC does insurance AND driving tests, I might accept a letter from them saying this to cover myself.
Congrats to your wife, and good luck to you.
I'm still confused why myself and OH could sit the tests without PR cards, and yet you had to wait, and potentially invalidate your insurance.
Jul 21st 2007 | 1:44 am
#35
BE Forum Addict
Joined: Sep 2004
Posts: 1,883
From: vancouver island! BC Canada~ Lovin it!
Re: Passing the B.C Driving Test
Well we had some fun with the whole taking your test within 90 days but it can be done more easily than you think if you are lucky.
We tried the ICBC in Kelowna twice and they just wouldn't let us do anything without our PR cards. The cards arrived two days ago and we have been here 6 weeks today.
As soon as they arrived we went down and my wife, who had studied the book, took her knowledge test and passed, they then offered her a cancellation date for next week but as they were checking it appeared that they had received several "no shows" so the guy said he could take her out then and there. So 45 minutes later she came back having passed with a smile from ear to ear, all over and done with in one afternoon.
I have only read to page 35 so far but must get on with it soon.
I did try and get a straight answer from them about going over the 90 days as surely if we had passed the theory and they couldn't fit us in it wasn't our fault. The woman said that it's unlikely you would get a ticket from the police but there could be an issue with your insurance but she couldn't confirm anything.
We tried the ICBC in Kelowna twice and they just wouldn't let us do anything without our PR cards. The cards arrived two days ago and we have been here 6 weeks today.
As soon as they arrived we went down and my wife, who had studied the book, took her knowledge test and passed, they then offered her a cancellation date for next week but as they were checking it appeared that they had received several "no shows" so the guy said he could take her out then and there. So 45 minutes later she came back having passed with a smile from ear to ear, all over and done with in one afternoon.
I have only read to page 35 so far but must get on with it soon.
I did try and get a straight answer from them about going over the 90 days as surely if we had passed the theory and they couldn't fit us in it wasn't our fault. The woman said that it's unlikely you would get a ticket from the police but there could be an issue with your insurance but she couldn't confirm anything.
Jul 31st 2007 | 1:00 am
#36
Forum Regular
Joined: Jun 2005
Posts: 56
Re: Passing the B.C Driving Test
Hello all,
Can I just double check something. Am landing in BC in Sept but was not planning on getting Canadian driving license straight away, what with everything else to sort out eg home, job etc
Am I right in thinking if I don't take/pass the test in the first 3 months it just means I can't drive full stop after then (on my UK license) until I pass the BC test? There's no other implications I need to be aware of
CR
Can I just double check something. Am landing in BC in Sept but was not planning on getting Canadian driving license straight away, what with everything else to sort out eg home, job etc
Am I right in thinking if I don't take/pass the test in the first 3 months it just means I can't drive full stop after then (on my UK license) until I pass the BC test? There's no other implications I need to be aware of
CR
Jul 31st 2007 | 2:41 am
#37
BE Forum Addict
Joined: Sep 2004
Posts: 1,883
From: vancouver island! BC Canada~ Lovin it!
Re: Passing the B.C Driving Test
Hello all,
Can I just double check something. Am landing in BC in Sept but was not planning on getting Canadian driving license straight away, what with everything else to sort out eg home, job etc
Am I right in thinking if I don't take/pass the test in the first 3 months it just means I can't drive full stop after then (on my UK license) until I pass the BC test? There's no other implications I need to be aware of
CR
Can I just double check something. Am landing in BC in Sept but was not planning on getting Canadian driving license straight away, what with everything else to sort out eg home, job etc
Am I right in thinking if I don't take/pass the test in the first 3 months it just means I can't drive full stop after then (on my UK license) until I pass the BC test? There's no other implications I need to be aware of
CR
Jul 31st 2007 | 2:46 am
#38
Lost in BE Cyberspace
Joined: May 2004
Posts: 9,707
Re: Passing the B.C Driving Test
Hi
You have 90 days, according to http://www.icbc.com/licensing/lic_re...lace_index.asp
Don't forget to get a letter from your insurer (not the broker) as to the number of claim free years, if you want to get the discount http://www.icbc.com/insurance/insura...uy_moving2.asp
Don't forget to get a letter from your insurer (not the broker) as to the number of claim free years, if you want to get the discount http://www.icbc.com/insurance/insura...uy_moving2.asp
Jul 31st 2007 | 2:57 am
#39
BE Forum Addict
Joined: Sep 2004
Posts: 1,883
From: vancouver island! BC Canada~ Lovin it!
Re: Passing the B.C Driving Test
Hi
You have 90 days, according to http://www.icbc.com/licensing/lic_re...lace_index.asp
Don't forget to get a letter from your insurer (not the broker) as to the number of claim free years, if you want to get the discount http://www.icbc.com/insurance/insura...uy_moving2.asp
You have 90 days, according to http://www.icbc.com/licensing/lic_re...lace_index.asp
Don't forget to get a letter from your insurer (not the broker) as to the number of claim free years, if you want to get the discount http://www.icbc.com/insurance/insura...uy_moving2.asp
( hope i am explaining that right)
Jul 31st 2007 | 3:16 am
#40
Forum Regular
Joined: Jun 2005
Posts: 56
Re: Passing the B.C Driving Test
thanks for posting ~ that is my understanding too..however i think the person was enquiring..what happens if you DONT take your test within the 90 days...? what can occur...? does it mean you have to start from the beginning again..as in...L then N etc....before you get your car licence..or can you just not drive..until you go in and take your knowledge test and drivers exam..?
( hope i am explaining that right)
( hope i am explaining that right)
Cheers
CR
Jul 31st 2007 | 4:45 am
#41
BE Forum Addict
Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 1,201
From: Vancouver, BC
Re: Passing the B.C Driving Test
Sorry can't answer the question directly but we did our theory tests within the 3 months and then because there was such a long wait, did our practical tests after the 3 months, and didn't have to do the L and N route.
I know there is a lot going on when you first arrive, but it might be worth just taking the theory test in the 3 months. You can do practice ones on-line through the ICBC website.
I know there is a lot going on when you first arrive, but it might be worth just taking the theory test in the 3 months. You can do practice ones on-line through the ICBC website.
Jul 31st 2007 | 9:23 am
#42
Woohoo! PR :D
Joined: Apr 2006
Posts: 280
From: Victoria BC
Re: Passing the B.C Driving Test
Hi I am Lancashire Lads wife and I just passed my BC test this morning.
To answer Maple Leaf & Crusaderrabbit, my 90 days ran out 7 days ago and there was no problem with me taking my Class 5 test. I had already done the theory about 6 weeks ago, but again I don't think there would be a problem with that after the 90 days.
I just turned up 1st thing and queued at the Victoria test centre for a same day space. I had to show them my receipt from the theory test, my UK photocard (I didn't mention the counterpart incase I didn't pass), my passport and my work permit (or your visa/PR if that's what you have).
It was all fine and no one even mentioned that my 90 days had expired.
To answer Maple Leaf & Crusaderrabbit, my 90 days ran out 7 days ago and there was no problem with me taking my Class 5 test. I had already done the theory about 6 weeks ago, but again I don't think there would be a problem with that after the 90 days.
I just turned up 1st thing and queued at the Victoria test centre for a same day space. I had to show them my receipt from the theory test, my UK photocard (I didn't mention the counterpart incase I didn't pass), my passport and my work permit (or your visa/PR if that's what you have).
It was all fine and no one even mentioned that my 90 days had expired.
Jul 31st 2007 | 9:37 am
#43
BE Forum Addict
Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 1,201
From: Vancouver, BC
Re: Passing the B.C Driving Test
Well done Mrs Lancashire Lad!
Jul 31st 2007 | 11:13 am
#44
BE Forum Addict
Joined: Sep 2004
Posts: 1,883
From: vancouver island! BC Canada~ Lovin it!
Re: Passing the B.C Driving Test
Hi I am Lancashire Lads wife and I just passed my BC test this morning.
To answer Maple Leaf & Crusaderrabbit, my 90 days ran out 7 days ago and there was no problem with me taking my Class 5 test. I had already done the theory about 6 weeks ago, but again I don't think there would be a problem with that after the 90 days.
I just turned up 1st thing and queued at the Victoria test centre for a same day space. I had to show them my receipt from the theory test, my UK photocard (I didn't mention the counterpart incase I didn't pass), my passport and my work permit (or your visa/PR if that's what you have).
It was all fine and no one even mentioned that my 90 days had expired.
To answer Maple Leaf & Crusaderrabbit, my 90 days ran out 7 days ago and there was no problem with me taking my Class 5 test. I had already done the theory about 6 weeks ago, but again I don't think there would be a problem with that after the 90 days.
I just turned up 1st thing and queued at the Victoria test centre for a same day space. I had to show them my receipt from the theory test, my UK photocard (I didn't mention the counterpart incase I didn't pass), my passport and my work permit (or your visa/PR if that's what you have).
It was all fine and no one even mentioned that my 90 days had expired.
i was over the 90 days when i took my driving test.~.i had however taken my knowledge test 6 weeks prior and within 90 day limit. i got mine on June 12th! phew very happy day indeed~ i landed in january about the 24th..so i was definently over the 90 day limit.( i just realised how far over i was) !!!
however..i think the poster was enquiring would it matter if it was wayyyyyyyyyy longer than that.....only he can speak for himself..but i got the impression he is talking months..or even a year or so after the 90 day limit has expired.......
once again i would suggest that poster contact ICBC direct and get it straight from the horses mouth to be sure....( and even then it can be risky cos we all know you can ring just about any service and get a diff answer just about every time)
Last edited by Maple Leaf; Jul 31st 2007 at 11:22 am.
Jul 31st 2007 | 3:20 pm
#45
Forum Regular
Joined: Jul 2005
Posts: 82
Re: Passing the B.C Driving Test
Hi, My partner landed on June 14th, 2007 and we are still waiting for his PR to arrive in the mail. Even though we have been told that it is in the mail it still has not made it here. It is hard to do it all in 3 months because you require your PR card as a primary form of ID to even take the theory test. Until you have the PR it is impossible for him to do anything. The wait list for the road test is 3 months...Though I guess you could hang around and wait for a cancellation.
Last edited by glenfiddich; Jul 31st 2007 at 3:22 pm.
