What you need to do to replace a lost BC driver's license

To replace a lost BC driver's license, you must report it to ICBC (Insurance Corporation of British Columbia) and request a replacement card. ICBC is the only body that issues BC driver's licenses, and they handle both the reporting and the replacement process. You can start the replacement either online through the ICBC website, by phone, or in person at an ICBC office or authorized service provider.

The process takes about 10 business days if you order online or by phone, or same-day if you explore in person at an ICBC office. You will need to pay a replacement fee (currently $30 for a standard replacement) and provide proof of identity and residency. Once ICBC processes your request, they mail the new card to your address on file, or you can pick it up at an ICBC office if you applied in person.

Key Takeaways

  • Report your lost license to ICBC as soon as possible — this prevents someone else from using it and protects you from liability if it is misused.
  • You can replace your license online, by phone, or in person; online and phone requests take about 10 business days, while in-person applications at ICBC offices are processed same-day.
  • You will need to provide proof of identity (such as a passport or birth certificate) and proof of residency (such as a utility bill or lease) at the time of replacement.
  • The replacement fee is $30 for a standard card; fees may differ if you need a rush replacement or if your license has other issues.
  • If you need to drive before your replacement arrives, you can request a temporary driving permit from ICBC for a small additional fee.

How to report your lost license and start the replacement online

The fastest way to replace a lost BC driver's license is through the ICBC website at icbc.com. Go to the "Licenses" section and select "Replace a lost, stolen or damaged license." You will need your driver's license number (if you remember it) or your date of birth and Social Insurance Number to verify your identity in the system.

During the online process, ICBC will ask you to confirm your personal details, your current address, and whether you want the replacement mailed to you or picked up at an ICBC office. You will pay the $30 replacement fee by debit or credit card. Once you submit, ICBC sends you a confirmation email with a reference number. Your new card will arrive by mail in about 10 business days.

If you do not have online access or prefer not to use it, you can call ICBC at 1-844-922-4622 (toll-free in BC) and provide the same information over the phone. The phone process takes the same amount of time as online.

Replacing your license in person at an ICBC office

If you need your replacement card the same day, visit an ICBC office or an authorized service provider in person. ICBC offices are located throughout BC; you can find the nearest one on the ICBC website by entering your postal code. Authorized service providers (such as some insurance brokers and driver training schools) can also process replacements, though not all offer same-day service — call ahead to confirm.

Bring two pieces of identification: one photo ID (such as a passport, birth certificate with a photo, or provincial ID card) and one piece of proof of residency (such as a utility bill, lease agreement, or recent bank statement with your name and current address). You do not need to bring your original license since it is lost. Pay the $30 replacement fee in cash, debit, or credit card, and ICBC will print your new card on the spot.

Wait times at ICBC offices vary by location and time of day. Visiting early in the morning or mid-week typically means shorter waits. If you cannot visit in person, the online or phone route is your next-fastest option.

Documents and identification you will need

ICBC requires proof of identity and proof of residency to issue a replacement license. Proof of identity must be a government-issued photo ID such as a Canadian passport, a birth certificate with a photo, a provincial photo ID card, or a travel document. A photocopy is not acceptable — bring the original.

Proof of residency must show your current BC address and your name. Acceptable documents include a utility bill (hydro, gas, water, or internet), a lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, a recent bank or credit card statement, or a government letter (such as from CRA or Service BC). The document must be dated within the last three months. If you have recently moved and your ID does not yet show your new address, bring a lease or utility bill in your name at the new address.

If you do not have two separate documents, some ICBC offices will accept a single document that serves both purposes (such as a passport with a recent utility bill). Call your local ICBC office ahead of time if you are unsure whether your documents will be accepted.

What to do if you need to drive before your replacement arrives

If you applied online or by phone and your new card has not yet arrived, you can request a temporary driving permit from ICBC. This permit allows you to drive legally while you wait for your replacement card. You can order a temporary permit online at the same time you request your replacement, or by calling ICBC.

The temporary permit is emailed to you as a PDF that you print and carry with you while driving. It costs an additional $10 and is valid for 30 days. If your replacement card arrives before the 30 days are up, you no longer need the temporary permit — straightforward destroy it and use your new card.

If you applied in person at an ICBC office and received your replacement card the same day, you do not need a temporary permit.

Fees and payment methods

The replacement fee for a lost BC driver's license is $30. If you also request a temporary driving permit while waiting for your card, add another $10. ICBC accepts cash, debit, and credit card (Visa and Mastercard) at offices and online. Payment by phone is also accepted.

There are no additional fees for standard replacements. If your license was damaged rather than lost, the fee is the same. If you need a rush replacement (faster than the standard 10 business days), ICBC does not currently offer a rush service; the standard timeline applies to all online and phone orders.

Common mistakes to avoid when replacing your lost license

Do not delay reporting your lost license. The sooner you report it, the sooner ICBC can flag it in their system and prevent someone else from using it. If your lost license is later used fraudulently, having reported it promptly protects you from liability.

Do not assume your address on file is current. Before you submit your replacement request, log into your ICBC account online or call to confirm that your address is correct. If it is not, update it before you order your replacement — otherwise your new card will be mailed to the wrong address and you will have to request a second replacement.

Do not bring a photocopy of your ID. ICBC requires original documents. If you are explore in person, bring the actual passport, birth certificate, or ID card, not a copy.

Do not forget to bring proof of residency if you are explore in person. Many people bring only their photo ID and then have to reschedule because they do not have a second document showing their current address.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I replace my lost license if I do not remember my driver's license number?

Yes. When you explore online or by phone, ICBC will ask for your date of birth and Social Insurance Number instead. These are enough to verify your identity in their system. If you are explore in person, bring your photo ID and proof of residency, and ICBC staff will look up your license number.

What if my address has changed since I last renewed my license?

Update your address with ICBC before you request your replacement. You can do this online through your ICBC account, by phone, or in person at an ICBC office. If you submit a replacement request with an old address on file, your new card will be mailed to that address. You can update your address at the same time you request the replacement if you are explore in person.

How long does it take to receive a replacement license by mail?

ICBC typically delivers replacement licenses within 10 business days of your request if you applied online or by phone. Delivery time depends on your postal code and Canada Post's schedule. If you need your license sooner, visit an ICBC office in person for same-day replacement.

Can someone else pick up my replacement license if I applied in person?

No. ICBC requires the person named on the license to pick it up in person. You must show photo ID at the time of pickup. If you applied online or by phone and requested mail delivery, the card will be mailed to your address on file.

What should I do if my lost license is found after I have already replaced it?

Destroy the old license. Do not attempt to use it — it is no longer valid once you have reported it lost and received a replacement. If you find it, you can also return it to any ICBC office or authorized service provider for proper disposal.