Question:
What does the “L” mean on the back of a car? What if I’ve never driven before, what do I need to know about getting my “L” and what happens after I receive my “L”?
Answer:
The “L”, or “Learner’s” licence,is the first licence you receive so when you see a car with an “L” displayed on the back, it tells you the driver is brand new and is just learning how to drive. Be sure to give them plenty of space!! When learning, new drivers may need extra room and extra time to make maneuvers such as turns or changing lanes, and they may drive slower than the rest of us.
Experienced drivers need to remember to have patience for new drivers as they are still learning – we were all there once!!!
If you are a new driver and you want to receive your L, you will need to pass a knowledge test, as well as a vision and health screening at an ICBC location. Be sure to read “Learn to Drive Smart” by picking up a copy at ICBC or by downloading the app so you can learn the rules of the road before going for your knowledge test. You can also practice taking the knowledge test online (https://practicetest.icbc.com/#/), or on the ICBC app before going in to an ICBC location. If you don’t pass your knowledge test, you will have to wait a week before you can try again.
Once you receive your Learner’s licence it is valid for 2 years and comes with the following restrictions:
- Qualified supervisor– you MUST ALWAYS be accompanied by a qualified supervisor. Your supervisor MUST be at least 25 years of age, seated in the front passenger seat beside you, and hold a valid Class 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 licence.
- Zero blood alcohol– you MUST NOT drive after consuming ANY amount of alcohol.
- No electronic devices– you MUST NOT use hand-held or EVEN HANDS-FREE communication deviceswhile driving. This includes cellphones, music or portable gaming devices, GPS systems, etc.
- L sign– you MUST display the official red “L” sign, correctly oriented to show the letter “L”, in the back windshield or on the rear of your vehicle so it is visible to drivers behind you.
- Passenger limit– you can only have two passengers in the vehicle – your supervisor and one additional passenger. There are no exceptions to the number of passengers allowed for the “L” stage.
- Restricted driving hours– you CANNOT drive between the hours of midnight and 5 a.m.
You need to hold your Learner’s licence for one year before you can take your first road test. Make sure you get at least the recommended 60 hours of driving practice time in the year you hold your “L”. Also be sure to drive in different traffic and weather conditions, at different times of day, as well as in unfamiliar areas so you are ready to drive on your own without a supervisor if you pass your road test.
Road tests can be booked through the ICBC website (https://www.icbc.com/driver-licensing/visit-dl-office/Pages/Book-a-road-test.aspx) and are available for booking 100 days before the test date. All ICBC locations in Greater Vancouver are very busy so be sure to book your road test on the first date it is available to avoid disappointment.
If you fail your road test you will need to wait 14 days before you can try again, 30 days after a second failed attempt, and 60 days after a third and any additional failed attempts.
ALWAYS DRIVE SAFELY AND COURTEOUSLY, whether you are a new or experienced driver!