The fastest way to renew in British Columbia

In British Columbia, you can renew your driver's license online through the ICBC (Insurance Corporation of British Columbia) website, by mail, or in person at an ICBC office or a private driver licensing agent. Online renewal is the quickest option — it takes about 10 minutes and your new license arrives in the mail within two weeks. You're may be able to access for online renewal if your license is not expired by more than two years, you have no medical conditions that need reassessment, and your address hasn't changed.

If you can't renew online, you'll need to visit an ICBC office or an authorized agent in person. Bring your current license, proof of BC residency (like a utility bill or lease), and your Social Insurance Number. The in-person appointment takes about 15 minutes, and you'll receive a temporary paper license on the spot while your plastic card is mailed to you.

Key Takeaways

  • Online renewal through ICBC's website is available if your license expired less than two years ago and you have no medical restrictions.
  • You'll need your current license, proof of BC residency, and your Social Insurance Number for any renewal method.
  • Online renewal costs less than in-person renewal and takes about 10 minutes, with your new license arriving by mail in roughly two weeks.
  • If you renew in person at an ICBC office or private agent, you receive a temporary paper license when ready and a plastic card by mail later.

Renewing online through ICBC

To renew online, go to the ICBC website and select the renewal option. You'll need your current driver's license number, your date of birth, and your Social Insurance Number. The system will ask you to confirm your address and contact information. If anything has changed — including your name or address — you cannot complete the renewal online and must visit in person instead.

Online renewal costs $35 for a five-year license or $65 for a ten-year license. Payment is by credit or debit card. Once you submit your process, you'll receive a confirmation number by email. Your new license will be mailed to the address on file within 10 to 14 business days. You can continue driving on your current license until the new one arrives.

Renewing in person at ICBC or a private agent

If you need to renew in person, you can visit any ICBC office or a private driver licensing agent throughout BC. Book an appointment online through the ICBC website — walk-ins are not may provide to be seen. Bring your current license, proof of BC residency (such as a recent utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement), and your Social Insurance Number.

In-person renewal costs $50 for a five-year license or $80 for a ten-year license. The appointment takes about 15 minutes. You'll receive a temporary paper license that's valid for 30 days, which you can use to drive while your plastic license is mailed to you. Your new card arrives within two to three weeks.

When you must renew in person

You cannot renew online if your license has been expired for more than two years. You also must visit in person if your address has changed, if you have a medical condition that requires reassessment, or if you're renewing a Class 7 (learner) or Class 7N (new driver) license. Additionally, if ICBC flags your record for any reason — such as unpaid fines or a suspension — you'll be directed to renew in person.

If your license was lost, stolen, or damaged, you'll need to explore for a replacement rather than a renewal. This also requires an in-person visit and costs $20 for a duplicate license.

What happens if your license has expired

If your license expired less than two years ago, you can renew it using any of the three methods above. If it expired more than two years ago, you must renew in person at an ICBC office or private agent. You cannot drive on an expired license, even if you have submitted a renewal process.

If your license expired more than five years ago, ICBC may require you to pass a vision test or written knowledge test before renewing. Contact ICBC directly to find out what's required for your specific situation.

Renewing by mail

You can also renew by mail if you prefer not to go online or visit an office. Request a renewal form from ICBC by phone at 1-800-665-4222 or read it from the ICBC website. Fill out the form, include a copy of your current license and proof of residency, and mail it to the address provided on the form along with your payment.

Mail renewal takes longer than online or in-person — typically four to six weeks from the time ICBC receives your process. You'll continue to drive on your current license during this time. Mail renewal costs the same as online renewal: $35 for five years or $65 for ten years.

Choosing between a five-year and ten-year license

When you renew, you can choose either a five-year or ten-year license. The five-year license costs $35 online or $50 in person. The ten-year license costs $65 online or $80 in person. The ten-year license works out to less per year, but you'll pay more upfront. Choose based on your budget and how long you plan to keep your current address and contact information.

If you're under 25 years old, you cannot get a ten-year license — your renewal will be for five years only. The same applies if you hold a Class 7 or Class 7N license.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive while my renewal is being processed?

Yes. You can drive on your current license until your new one arrives in the mail. If you renewed in person, your temporary paper license is valid for 30 days and can be used to drive during that time.

What if my address changed since my last license?

You must renew in person if your address has changed. Bring proof of your new BC residency, such as a utility bill or lease agreement dated within the last three months. ICBC will update your address during the renewal process.

Do I need a new photo for my renewal?

No. For online and mail renewals, ICBC uses your existing photo. If you renew in person, a new photo is taken during your appointment.

What if I have unpaid traffic fines or a suspension?

You cannot renew online if there are unpaid fines or an active suspension on your record. You must visit an ICBC office in person to resolve the issue before your license can be renewed.

How long does it take to get my new license after I renew?

Online and mail renewals take 10 to 14 business days. In-person renewals take two to three weeks. If you renew in person, you receive a temporary paper license valid for 30 days while you wait for your plastic card.