The Government of B.C has just announced that proposed amendments to the Motor Vehicle Act will let ICBC to renew or replace driver’s licences, BC Identification (BCID), and photo BC Service Cards online.
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This potential legislation change is reportedly to save people time, as well as reduce waiting time for other in-person appointments.
ICBC Online Renewal And Replacements
Attorney General Niki Sharma said in a press release, “Too many people have to take time off work or travel long distances just to renew or replace their ID. By allowing these straightforward transactions online, we’re making life more convenient for people, especially those in rural and remote communities. This is part of our work to modernize government services so they’re easier, faster and more accessible for everyone in British Columbia.”
As long as the proposed amendments are passed, then eligible drivers will be able to apply through ICBC’s website and digital portal for select services. According to the Government of B.C.’s press release, this includes:
- applications to replace a valid driver’s licence that has been lost, destroyed, or damaged
- simple renewals for the majority of driver’s licence classes, when no changes are required other than extending the expiry date
Renewals and replacements will be available for those with full B.C. licences (classes 1 through 8). Replacements will be available online for drivers with Class 7 learner’s licences, but not renewals. These will still require an in-person appointment.
BCIDs, stand-alone photo BC Service Cards, and the combination Driver’s Licence/BC Services Card will be able to be renewed and replaced online, though.
Modernizing ICBC
These changes are reportedly in an effort to modernize B.C. with other provinces. Places like Ontario and Alberta already offer some type of online driver’s licence renewal.
“Being able to renew your driver licence online is an important step forward in the ongoing modernization of ICBC’s services,” said Jason McDaniel, president and CEO, ICBC. It will help not only drivers save time, but also ICBC employees’ so that they may focus on other in-person appointments.
“The online driver’s licence service is part of ICBC’s multiphase, 10-year modernization program designed to expand online services, streamline business processes and upgrade technology. It is anticipated that more driver licensing services will be offered online in the future.”
In-person appointments will remain available for those who prefer them. It should also be noted that eligibility criteria for online renewals and replacements are currently under development.
For more information, read the press release here.
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