British Columbia Driver's License Replacement

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When Do You Need A Driver's License Replacement In British Columbia?

A driver's license replacement is necessary in British Columbia under several circumstances that render the original license unusable or invalid. The Insurance Corporation of British Columbia (ICBC) outlines these situations in accordance with the Motor Vehicle Act.

Common reasons for needing a driver's license replacement include:

• Loss or theft of the license

• Significant damage to the license that affects its legibility

• Change in personal information (e.g., name change)

• Correction of errors on the existing license

It is essential to promptly address the need for replacement to ensure compliance with provincial regulations and maintain the ability to operate a motor vehicle legally. Individuals can visit the ICBC replace your licence page for more information on when to replace a license.

How To Replace A Lost Or Stolen Driver's License In British Columbia?

Replacing a lost or stolen driver's license in British Columbia is straightforward. The Insurance Corporation of British Columbia (ICBC) administers the process, ensuring that drivers can quickly obtain a valid replacement while maintaining the security of their personal information.

The steps to replace a lost or stolen driver's license typically include:

  1. Reporting the loss or theft to ICBC as soon as possible

  2. Visiting an ICBC driver licensing office or ServiceBC location

  3. Providing acceptable identification

  4. Completing a replacement application form

  5. Paying the required replacement fee (currently $17)

  6. Having a new photo taken (if necessary)

To find the nearest location for replacement, individuals can consult the ICBC locator page.

What Documents Are Needed To Replace A Driver's License In British Columbia

When replacing a driver's license in British Columbia, specific documents are required to verify identity and ensure the accuracy of personal information. The Insurance Corporation of British Columbia (ICBC) has established guidelines for acceptable identification in compliance with provincial regulations.

The typical documents needed for license replacement include:

• Primary identification (e.g., passport, birth certificate)

• Secondary identification (e.g., credit card, employee ID)

• Proof of residency (if the address has changed)

• Police report (in case of theft, if applicable)

How Much Does It Cost To Replace A Lost British Columbia Drivers License?

The cost to replace a lost, stolen, or damaged driver's license in British Columbia is $17 as of 2024. This fee covers the administrative costs of processing your replacement request and issuing a new license.

Cash, debit card, credit card, or personal check can be paid at any ICBC driver licensing office.

Do I Need A Medical Examination To Replace My Driver's License In British Columbia?

In most cases, you do not need a medical examination to replace a lost, stolen, or damaged driver's license in British Columbia. The replacement process typically only involves verifying your identity and residency and paying the replacement fee.

However, there are certain situations where a medical examination or additional medical information may be required to maintain your driving privileges, regardless of whether you are replacing or renewing your license:

  1. If you are 80 or older, you must complete a Driver's Medical Examination Report (DMER) every two years for the license renewal process.

  2. If you have a medical condition or disability that may affect your ability to drive safely, such as vision impairment, epilepsy, or cognitive decline, you may be required to provide a DMER or additional medical information to ICBC.

  3. If you hold a commercial driver's license (Class 1, 2, 3, or 4), you must provide a DMER every five years until age 45, every three years from age 45 to 65, and annually after age 65.

Suppose ICBC determines that a medical examination is necessary based on your age, medical condition, or other factors. In that case, they will notify you by mail and provide instructions on submitting the required medical information.

For more information on medical requirements for driver's licenses in B.C., visit the ICBC website at https://www.icbc.com/driver-licensing/re-exam/Drivers-medical-exams or contact an ICBC driver licensing office.

Do I Need To Change My Driver's License Due To A Change In Personal Data In British Columbia?

Yes, if you change personal information, such as your name or address, you must update your driver's license with ICBC as soon as possible. Failing to notify ICBC of changes to your personal data within ten days violates the Motor Vehicle Act and can result in fines or other penalties.

To update your personal information on your driver's license, visit an ICBC driver licensing office in person with the required documentation:

  1. For a name change, bring:

    • Your current driver's license

    • A legal document confirming your name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce order, or legal name change certificate

    • One piece of primary ID with your new name

    • One piece of secondary ID (can have your previous name)

  2. For an address change, bring:

    • Your current driver's license

    • Proof of your new residential address in B.C., such as a utility bill, rental agreement, or bank statement

There is no fee to update your personal information on your driver's license, but if you request a new license card with your updated information, a $17 replacement fee applies.

Insurance Corporation of British Columbia (ICBC)

Head Office: 151 West Esplanade, North Vancouver, BC V7M 3H9

Phone: 1-800-665-6442

Website: https://www.icbc.com