B.C. introduced legislation on Thursday (Feb. 19) that would amend the Motor Vehicle Act to allow people to renew or replace their driver’s licence, BCID and B.C. Service Cards through an online portal on the ICBC website.
“Too many people have to take time off work or travel long distances just to renew or replace their ID,” Attorney General Niki Sharma said in a news release. “By allowing these straightforward transactions online, we’re making life more convenient for people, especially those in rural and remote communities.”
Through the proposed system, eligible drivers (classes 1 through 8) will be able to replace their existing licence that has been lost, damaged or destroyed. Drivers with full licences will be able to renew so long as no changes other than the expiration date are needed.
Replacements and renewals will also be available for non-drivers who need a new BCID or B.C. Services Card.
Renewals will not be available for learner classes. Those will require an in-person appointment, as will drivers seeking a change of address.
People will still be able to access these services in person.
Sharma said it will then be “pretty instantaneous” for the new card to be sent out.
She told reporters she expects this to free up time for road tests, while saving money for both ICBC and people who will no longer need to make a trip to the licensing centre.
“It will save people time and money and effort, and we’re really excited about that,” she said.
The amendments will still need to pass in the legislature before they can take effect.