Question:
What does it mean when I see a green “N” on the back of a car?
Answer:
The “N”, or “Novice” licence, is the second stage of the licensing process in BC. It means that the driver has gone through the Learner’s stage and successfully passed their first road test but that they still do not have full driving privileges as those who hold a full Class 5 licence.
If you see a car with an “N” on the back it means the driver is still new and may not have a lot of experience. It may be their first time out on their own or they may have been driving for almost two years, but either way, the driver will not have a lot of driving experience. Be patient with new drivers and remember that they WILL make mistakes as we all do when learning to become comfortable with something new.
Be extra cautious when you encounter an “N” driver and give them a break, they are still learning!
There are some additional restrictions that all “N” drivers must obey:
- 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 electronic devices while driving. This includes cellphones, music or portable gaming devices, GPS systems, etc.
- N sign– you MUST display the official green “N” sign, correctly oriented to show the letter “N”, 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 ONE PASSENGER in the vehicle unless:
- The passengers are your immediate family – immediate family means your parents, children, spouse, siblings and grandparents (including step and foster relationships)
- If you are accompanied by a supervisor sitting beside you who is at least 25 years old and holds a valid Class 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 licence and then the supervisor can be your second passenger, or
- If you are taking driver training and are supervised by a licenced driver training instructor
You need to hold your Novice licence for two years before you can take your Class 5 road test, unless you have completed the GLP (Graduated Licencing Program) course. If you have completed the GLP course and have had no driving infractions since receiving your “N” in the first 18 months, then you can go for your Class 5 road test after only 18 months instead of the full two years.
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.
As with your first road test, if you fail your Class 5 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!