Understanding the Restrictions for L and N Drivers in British Columbia

British Columbia's Graduated Licensing Program (GLP) is designed to help new drivers gain experience and develop safe driving habits before earning a full driver's license. The GLP consists of two key stages: the Learner's (L) stage and the Novice (N) stage. Each stage comes with specific restrictions meant to reduce risk and build competence. Here's a clear breakdown of what each license allows and restricts.

Learner's License (Class 7L)

To qualify for a Class 7L license, applicants must be at least 16 years old and pass a knowledge test and vision screening. Once obtained, the following restrictions apply:

L Stage Restrictions:

• Supervisor Required: You must drive with a qualified supervisor who is 25 or older and holds a valid Class 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 license.
• Display the "L" Sign: A red "L" sign must be clearly displayed on the back of the vehicle whenever driving.
• Zero Blood Alcohol: You must maintain a 0% blood alcohol content (BAC) at all times.
• No Electronic Devices: No use of hand-held or hands-free electronic devices, including GPS, phones, or music players, is allowed.
• Passenger Limit: You may only carry one passenger in addition to your supervisor, unless the passengers are immediate family members and your supervisor is the only non-family member.
• Night Driving Restrictions: You are not allowed to drive between midnight and 5:00 a.m.

Novice License (Class 7N)

After holding your L license for at least 12 months, you can take the Class 7 road test to move into the Novice stage. (A rule change might get passed in 2026 shortening the L period to nine months for drivers aged 25 +)

N Stage Restrictions:

• Display the "N" Sign: A green "N" sign must be clearly displayed on the back of the vehicle while driving.
• Zero Blood Alcohol: Like L drivers, N drivers must maintain a 0% BAC at all times.
• Passenger Restrictions: You can only carry one passenger unless:
  • You are accompanied by a qualified supervisor (25+ with a valid Class 1-5 license), or
  • Your passengers are immediate family members, or
  • You have an exemption (e.g., from ICBC for work or childcare reasons).
• No Electronic Devices: The ban on hand-held and hands-free electronic devices continues.

Moving to a Full License (Class 5)

To graduate from the N stage, you must:

• Hold your N license for at least 24 months (or 18 months with an ICBC-approved GLP course, see below), and
• Pass the Class 5 road test.

Once you pass, the display sign and GLP restrictions are removed, and you become a fully licensed driver in BC.

What is the ICBC-approved GLP Driver Training Course?

Format – A minimum of 16 hours of classroom theory plus 12 hours of one-on-one in-car instruction, delivered by an ICBC-approved driving school.
Focus – Hazard perception, defensive driving, and BC road rules, capped with written and practical evaluations.
Benefit – Completing the course and keeping a clean driving record shortens the Novice (N) stage from 24 months to 18 months (the 12-month Learner (L) stage cannot be shortened). Eligible high-school students also earn two Grade-11 credits.
Important – Let’s Go Driving is ICBC-licensed for private lessons and road-test preparation, but we do not currently provide the classroom component required for the GLP course. To join the official GLP program, please register with an ICBC-approved GPL training school; we’ll be happy to complement that course with tailored in-car practice.

Final Thoughts

The L and N stages are crucial steps in helping new drivers build skills and stay safe on BC roads. Following the restrictions not only keeps you compliant with the law but also reduces your risk of accidents. Whether you're just starting out or preparing for your Class 5, driving responsibly helps protect you and everyone around you.